What Is Capped Composite Decking

Composite or capped composite decking of any kind will get hotter than a traditional wooden deck regardless of what manufacturers may promise.

What is capped composite decking.

Capped decking offers extra protection in the form of a hard outer shell. The difference capped vs uncapped composite decking. The top capped composite brands are trex timbertech and fiberon. Capped composite decking is a mix of recycled wood fibers and recycled plastics such as recycled plastic shopping bags.

Capping is not an add on. Although both are excellent choices for you deck project capped composite decking has one big advantage. Capped composite decking has an inner core made of recycled wood and plastics. Traditional wood will require the most maintenance over the deck s lifespan whereas the maintenance for composite decking is practically nonexistent.

It s also called capstock decking. Capped composite decking has come a long way from earlier uncapped options. Capped composite decking is generally made from 75 95 recycled material. As its name suggests the core of the composite is then capped by a pvc shell that helps protect it from the elements.

This capping contains uv inhibitors and provides an additional element of strength and resilience. Some capped composites have a thick hard shell that will hold up to heavy abuse while others are less satisfactory. Capped composite decking has a cover that is bonded to the core during manufacturing. With that in mind boards that are hollow don t retain as much heat and pvc capped boards will be the coolest.

Do any composite decking brands have truly maintenance free products. That means when you choose timbertech capped composite or capped polymer decking you save on long term costs time and stress. Uncapped decking is the more cost effective choice but it is also more vulnerable to staining and mold growth if not carefully maintained. Uncapped varieties are earlier first generation versions of composite decking that are vulnerable to staining fading mould and mildew.

The latest advancement in the composite deck category is the concept of capped boards. In fact a 500 square foot capped composite deck is made up of over 140 000 recycled plastic bags. These are essentially composite boards with a wood plastic core and a layer of textured plastic around the board. The advantage of capped composite decking is the pvc coating prevents mold and mildew from feeding on the organic fiber found in composite material.

Today we have capped composites which feature a cover that provides added protection against the elements and everyday living. The boards are hard wearing long lasting and extremely resistant to rotting splintering and warping. Hello low maintenance outdoor living. What is capped composite decking.

The decking boards are then capped with a plastic covering that resembles real wood and which resists mold.