When designing a deck, one also has to give sustainability and environmental friendliness top importance. Low maintenance and lifetime of sustainable decking materials may assist to lower environmental impact. This post will go over five of the most sustainable decking materials fit for Seattle’s temperature. This will enable you to decide on your outside area with knowledge.
The climate of Seattle may be very hostile for outdoor constructions like decks. Following are some of the main difficulties deck owners deal with:
Long stretches of rain might cause moisture to build-up, which would damage wood and encourage mildew and fungus development.
Summer Full Sun Exposure
Strong sunlight may fade and warping of sustainable decking materials results.
Rain and wetness may cause deck surfaces to be slippery, therefore increasing the likelihood of slips and falls.
Maintenance Requirement: Seattle has both dry and damp, wet environments. To remain safe and in excellent shape, decks therefore need constant care.
1. Computed Decking
Homeowners seeking a low-maintenance decking option often choose composite decking. Designed from a combination of plastic and wood fibres, composite decking presents the look of wood without the related maintenance.
This environmentally friendly decking material is amazing in its resistance to strong storms. This feature qualifies it for the climate of Seattle, which gets full sun exposure and plenty of rain.
How it performs in relation to the weather difficulties of Seattle:
Because composite decking does not attract insects or decay, it guarantees a longer lifetime even in humid environments.
The combination of elements lowers warping risk and offers more stability.
Grooved surfaces abound among composite decking materials. They become safer in rainy circumstances as this increases traction.
Factors to give thought when selecting composite decking material:
Slickiness and moss: Composite decking might get mossy or slick in Seattle’s humid climate. Maintaining a safe surface requires regular cleaning including power washing.
Variances in quality: variable manufacturers and product lines will have variable composite decking quality. Usually, investing in more upscale choices yields improved performance and durability.
Brands of Composite Decking Worth Investigating
Several respectable companies provide composite decking fit for Seattle house owners:
Leading brand in composite decking, Trex is well-known for both strength and variety of designs.
TimberTech provides premium decking with an eye towards both environmental impact and aesthetic appeal.
Durable composite decking choices resistant to moisture and damage come from fiberon.
Ecological Decking Materials
2. PVC Skirting
PVC decking is composed only of polyvinyl chloride. This presents a strong and low-maintenance decking choice. Particularly resistant to moisture and durable, PVC decking is a great choice for Seattle’s damp environment.
This environmentally friendly decking product is meant to withstand both full sun and heavy rain. Not sacrificing its integrity or look.
How it performs in relation to the weather difficulties of Seattle:
Excellent grip made possible by PVC decking makes walking on it safer in wet conditions.
PVC does not absorb water as wood does, therefore lowering the possibility of mildew and mould development.
Even with constant sun, PVC decking keeps its structural integrity and colour. avoiding warping and fading.
Considerations for selecting PVC decking material:
PVC decking also raises certain issues to be considered:
Though most of the time PVC provides great grip, it may become slippery when frost develops on the surface.
Higher Cost: PVC decking usually comes with longer warranties and greater performance even if it might be more costly than composite or wood choices.
Among leading manufacturers providing PVC decking are:
Many homeowners choose Azek because of its great selection of designs and remarkable strength.
Wolf: provides very textured and strong PVC decking. It’s said to have great grip and to be scratch and stain resistant.
Ecological Decking Materials
3. Outdoor Wood Decking
Natural wood decking is still a great option for its classic beauty and warmth. Common choices with different qualities include pressure-treated wood, cedar, redwood.
Generally speaking, genuine wood calls for greater upkeep than composite or PVC decking. But many homeowners like the real and traditional appearance it offers.
Natural wood may be treated with sealants and stains to increase its moisture and insect damage resistance, therefore meeting Seattle’s weather problems.
Appropriately cared for wood may resist temperature swings without appreciable warping.
Though it might become slick when wet, wood inherently gives strong grip.
Factors to give thought when selecting natural wood decking material:
Required Regular Maintenance: Natural wood decking calls for cleaning, sealing, and consistent staining. Should not be done annually, decay, insect damage, and warping might all become problems.
Environmental Impact: Though more so than with synthetic materials, harvesting natural wood may be detrimental to the surroundings.
Typical natural wood choices are:
Cedar: Reputed for its inherent pest and rot resistance.
Redwood gives durability and a pleasing look.
Treated to withstand decay and insect damage, pressure-treated wood is a reasonably priced choice.
4. Made Wood Decking
To make natural wood stronger and more stable, modified wood decking treats it either chemically or by intense heat.
How it performs in relation to the weather difficulties of Seattle:
The alteration technique greatly increases the wood’s resistance to moisture and pests.
To keep its natural look, modified wood calls for less regular upkeep.
Many of modified wood goods come from sustainable forests.
The ecosystem suffers less as a result.
Factors to give thought when selecting modified wood decking material:
Usually speaking, modified wood is more costly than conventional wood. Still, it might be a fantastic choice for you because it provides longer-lasting performance.
Availability: Some areas could find it less easily accessible than other decking materials.
Some choices for altered wood decking consist in:
Treated with heat, thermally modified wood increases stability and durability.
Acetylated wood is renowned for its environmental credentials and great strength.
Ecologically Friendly Decking Materials
5. Sustainable and recycled alternatives
Sustainable or recyclable materials are used to provide recycled or sustainably based decking choices. This offers householders a green option.
Two of these ecological decking options are bamboo composite decking and recycled plastic decking. Both are intended to have minimal environmental impact while nevertheless providing low maintenance and durability.
How well it withstands the weather issues facing Seattle:
Uses recycled materials to save resource use and waste.
Many times, these materials fight mildew, dampness, and mould.
Recycled and sustainable decking materials are engineered to withstand temperature fluctuations.
Things to consider when choosing recycled decking material:
Quality and Performance: Different products perform differently. So, it’s important to research and choose reputable brands.
Potential Higher Cost: Some sustainable options may be more expensive upfront. But because they are sturdy, they last longer, offering long-term savings.
Examples of recycled and sustainable decking materials include:
Recycled Plastic Decking: Made from recycled plastic materials, offering durability and low maintenance.
Bamboo Composite Decking: Combines bamboo fibers with plastic for a sustainable and durable deck.
Sustainable Decking Materials
Choosing the right decking material for Seattle’s climate involves a lot of thought and consideration. The specific weather challenges and the benefits of each material should weigh into your decision.
In The End
When you prioritize sustainability, you can enjoy a beautiful, safe, and durable deck year-round. Contact Olympic Decks for professional advice and installation of sustainable decking materials. Our team of experts is ready to help you create the perfect outdoor space for your home.