If you’re planning on building a deck and have been researching the different types of decking materials available then you’ll definitely have heard of wood plastic composite decking.
It’s a versatile material that has many useful properties and it’s renowned for its durability and longevity.
But, what is it actually made of?
In this article, we’ll answer that question and take a look at the manufacturing processes that are used to make it as well. We’ll also examine some of the reasons behind composite decking becoming so popular.
Wood Plastic Composite Materials
Wood plastic composites are made from a mixture of recycled plastic and reclaimed wood particles.
Although wood plastic composite decking is sometimes confused for plastic decking it actually has a higher content of wood than plastic, and its plastic content is usually high-density polyethene.
The material makeup of most composite decking is usually around 70% wood particles and 30% recycled plastic. This gives wood plastic composite several advantages over other materials such as wood decking and plastic decking as it combines the best properties of both.
The Early Days Of Wood Plastic Composites
When wood plastic composites were first being manufactured it was common for oyster shells, rice hulls and walnut shells to be used as fillers when making the material. This was cheaper for manufacturers and allowed them to maintain a steady level of quality.
However, as they tried to cut back on costs even further they started to add more and more of these fillers to the wood composite mix. This gradually led to the strength and integrity of the product being compromised and losing its flexibility.
To combat this, manufacturers started using organic material from sawmills such as wood sawdust to create their WPC products. This proved to be an affordable way to produce the products without compromising their quality.
It was also a much more eco-friendly way to produce their products and meant that their composite decking boards could imitate the look of natural lumber.
Due to the success of this mixture of wood flour and recycled plastics, the same combination is still used today.
The Wood Plastic Composite Manufacturing Process
Wood plastic composite is generally formed using a two-step manufacturing process.
Firstly, the wood flour is mixed with recycled plastic which is usually high-density polyethene. This mixture is then melted down into a dough-like consistency. The mixing of the two materials is either carried out by batch or by a continuous process.
Depending on the manufacturer, other ingredients will also be added to the wood composite mix. These can include a stabilizer, plastic coupling agent, foaming agent, and one or more dyes. Lubricants are also often used to enhance the appearance of wood-plastic composites.
Once the material has been mixed and melted there are three different methods that utilise different mechanical properties to shape it into composite decking boards or other products.
Co-extrusion
The most common method is called co-extrusion in which the molten wood plastic composite is forced through a die. This is a metal channel that forms the material into a specific, desired shape.
There are a number of different extruder types with varying mechanical properties such as a double screw or single screw. These extruders are used to achieve different shapes for the final products.
Injection moulding
Injection moulding is a different process from co-extrusion that is also used to form wood plastic composites into their final shape.
During this manufacturing process, the molten material is injected into a mould cavity at high pressure. Once the mould is filled the material then solidifies and settles into the desired shape.
Compression moulding
The third process used to form wood plastic composites into their desired shape is compression moulding. During this process, the material is forced in between two mould halves and then the mechanical properties of the mould are utilised by exerting pressure on both sides.
Why Are Wood Plastic Composites So Popular?
So, now you’re up to speed on what wood plastic composites are made of and how composite decking is formed. You may now be wondering why it’s such a popular material when compared to solid wood or 100% plastic products.
There are many reasons why composite decking is quickly overtaking both wood decking and plastic decking as the go-to choice for both homeowners and industry insiders.
Let’s take a look at some of the reasons that composite decking has become so popular.
Longevity
Unlike solid wood decking, composite decking is very resistant to rot due to the plastic content of the deck boards. This makes it resistant to water which means rot can’t take hold which gives composite boards amazing durability.
This also means that composite decking boards are very long-lasting as they don’t begin to rot over time as real wood does. On average, composite decking last for between 25 and 30 years.
Low-maintenance
Another reason that composite decking is so popular is that it requires far less maintenance than other decking materials such as wood. It doesn’t need to be treated, sealed, painted, or stained to maintain its durability and longevity.
Composite boards only require basic cleaning which can be done with a traditional pressure washer or warm, soapy water and a soft bristle brush. The fact that they require such little care leads to greatly reduced maintenance costs which will save you money over time.
Environmentally friendly
Wood plastic composite is also the most eco-friendly choice for decking materials. As it’s made with recycled plastics and reclaimed wood it means that no trees are felled to make it and the amount of plastic that goes to landfills is reduced.
Unlike plastic decking, no harmful chemicals are released into the atmosphere during production which means composite has a low environmental impact.
The fact that no sealants or stainers need to be used to maintain it also reduces its environmental impact.
UV resistance
Composite boards are very resistant to UV light and don’t fade much over the course of their service life. A small amount of fading does occur within the first few months after installation, but this process slows down and eventually ceases so that the boards retain their colour. There is more fading with the Clarity decking range.
Slip resistance
Due to the materials that it’s made of, a WPC deck is very slip-resistant and ideal for wet climates and installation near swimming pools. Its water-resistant properties mean that water tends to evaporate from its surface very quickly.
Typically, you can expect a composite deck to be dry within 30 minutes of water exposure. The wood grain finish and grooved surfaces of composite boards provide good traction underfoot. This leads to a reduction in slip hazards and makes them a safer choice than wood.
Aesthetics
As composite boards are made with both plastic and wood they have the appealing finish of traditional timber with the practicality of synthetic materials. This gives them a contemporary appearance that can complement any home and garden.
Our Ecoscape composite boards also come in a wide range of attractive colours such as charcoal, walnut, spiced oak, argent, ash, autumn, and silver birch. They’re as easy to cut and install as wood boards meaning they can fit nicely into outside spaces of all shapes and sizes.
Warp resistance
Although composite boards do expand and contract as temperatures fluctuate, they are designed to withstand these changes in size and don’t warp in the same way that wooden boards would.
Solid wood boards are very prone to water absorption which causes them to expand and contract much more significantly than composite boards. This leads to them cracking, warping and splitting over time.
However, composite boards will still absorb heat when exposed to the sun for long periods of time and will feel hot to the touch. This is perfectly normal and won’t result in any damage to the boards. If you want to reduce heat absorption then you should opt for light colours instead of dark ones.
FAQs
Is composite decking more expensive than timber decking?
Composite boards are more expensive than wooden boards in terms of their upfront costs. On average, it costs around ÂĢ40 per square metre for uncapped composite boards and around ÂĢ80 per square metre for capped composite boards.
Wooden boards vary widely in price depending on the type of wood but almost all of them will be cheaper than composite. However, as composite boards don’t need to be treated or sealed you will save money in the long term.
Can I paint composite boards?
Although composite boards don’t need to be painted it is still possible to do so. If you intend to paint them, you should use a polymer primer and then a layer of acrylic paint. However, this will lead to increased maintenance requirements as you will then have to repaint the boards fairly regularly.
Is wood plastic composite insect-resistant?
As WPC contains plastic it is inedible to insects. This means that, unlike traditional timber, you don’t need to worry about insects burrowing into the core of composite boards. Insects are naturally repelled by the mixture of wood and plastic.
Are wood plastic composites toxic?
Unlike UPVC decking, composite decking is made without the use of toxic chemicals. When UPVC is made harmful chemicals are released into the environment which contributes to the pollution of the air, land, and water. This is not the case for wood-plastic composites.
Final Thoughts
Wood plastic composite is a fairly unique material that combines the best elements of both real wood and synthetic plastics. It can be constructed using three different processes that all achieve similar ends and lead to the same excellent results.
As you can see, the amazing properties of this material give it many advantages over other types of decking and its popularity looks set to keep on increasing.
If you’re looking for a durable and versatile material to use for your decking project then you need to look no further than our Ecoscape wood plastic composite.
Comments (24)
As a seasoned expert in composite building materials, I couldn’t agree more with the points made in this article. Wood plastic composite (WPC) decking has truly revolutionized the decking industry with its unique combination of durability, longevity, and versatility.
One of the key factors that sets WPC decking apart from other materials is its composition. Made from a blend of recycled plastic and reclaimed wood particles, WPC decking offers the best of both worlds. With a higher content of wood than plastic, and a plastic component typically consisting of high-density polyethylene, WPC decking is able to provide the strength and durability of wood while also being resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage.
But WPC decking wasn’t always as popular as it is now. In the early days, there was some confusion between WPC decking and plastic decking. However, as the manufacturing processes improved and more people became aware of the benefits of WPC decking, its popularity soared. Today, it is one of the most sought-after decking materials on the market.
In addition to its composition, WPC decking also offers a wide range of other advantages. It is low maintenance, easy to install, and comes in a variety of colors and styles. Plus, its eco-friendly nature makes it a great choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Overall, I highly recommend considering wood plastic composite decking for your next decking project. Its unique composition and numerous benefits make it a top choice for both homeowners and contractors alike. Thank you for shedding light on this innovative and game-changing material!
This article provides a great overview of the materials used in wood plastic composite decking and the reasons behind its popularity. However, I’m curious about the purchasing process. Is it readily available in most hardware stores or do you need to order it? Any personal experiences or insights on where to buy would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for sharing this informative piece.
“Great explanation of the composition of wood plastic composite decking! I’ve been considering using this material for my deck and it’s helpful to know that it’s primarily made from recycled plastic and wood particles. I’m curious about the purchasing process – do you have any tips or recommendations on where to buy high-quality WPC decking? Thanks for sharing your knowledge on this popular decking option!”
“Great article! I’ve been considering using wood plastic composite decking for my new deck, but I wasn’t sure exactly what it was made of. This article answered all my questions and gave me a better understanding of the material. I’m impressed by its composition of recycled plastic and wood particles, making it both durable and environmentally friendly. I’m definitely leaning towards using this for my deck now. Do you have any recommendations on where to purchase it? Thanks!”
This article was really helpful in understanding the composition of wood plastic composite decking. I had no idea that it was made from a mixture of recycled plastic and wood particles. It’s great to know that it combines the best properties of both materials. I’m definitely considering using this for my deck project. However, I’m curious about where I can purchase this type of decking. Any suggestions or personal experiences would be appreciated. Thank you!
“Great article! I’ve been researching decking materials and have heard a lot about wood plastic composite decking. It’s interesting to learn that it’s made from a mixture of recycled plastic and wood particles. I’m curious about the purchasing process for this type of decking – do you have any tips or recommendations? Looking forward to reading more about the benefits of composite decking.”
“Great article! It’s always helpful to know exactly what materials are used in a product, especially when it comes to something as important as decking. I’m curious about the purchasing process for wood plastic composite decking – is it readily available or do you have to go through a specific supplier? I’ve heard great things about its durability and versatility, so I’m definitely considering it for my own deck project. Thanks for the informative read!”
“Great article! I’ve been considering building a deck and have heard about wood plastic composite decking, but I’ve always been curious about what it’s actually made of. This article answered all my questions and I appreciate the breakdown of the material composition. It’s interesting to learn about the advantages of wood plastic composite over other decking materials. However, I’m wondering where I can purchase this type of decking? Any suggestions or personal experiences would be helpful. Thanks!”
This article provides a clear and informative explanation of what wood plastic composite decking is made of. I appreciate learning about the manufacturing process and the benefits of using this material for decks. However, I am curious about the purchasing process and would love to hear more about that. Overall, this article has definitely piqued my interest in considering wood plastic composite decking for my future projects.
This article provides a comprehensive explanation of what wood plastic composite decking is made of and its manufacturing processes. It’s interesting to learn that it’s a mixture of recycled plastic and reclaimed wood particles, giving it the best properties of both materials. However, I’m curious about how to purchase this type of decking. Overall, a great read for anyone considering building a deck.
This article provides great insight into the composition of wood plastic composite decking. It’s interesting to learn that it’s made from a mixture of recycled plastic and reclaimed wood particles, giving it the best of both worlds in terms of durability and sustainability. However, I’m left wondering about the purchasing process for this product. Is it readily available in stores or do you have to order it directly from the manufacturer? Overall, a well-written and informative piece.
“Great article on the composition of wood plastic composite decking! I’ve been considering using this material for my deck, but I was unsure of what it was actually made of. It’s interesting to learn that it’s a combination of recycled plastic and wood particles. I can see how this would make it a durable and eco-friendly option. Do you have any recommendations on where to purchase this type of decking? Thanks for the informative read!”
Great article! I’ve been considering building a deck and have heard about wood plastic composite decking, but wasn’t sure what it was made of. This post answered all my questions and I love the idea of using recycled materials. My only question now is where can I purchase this type of decking? Thank you for providing such helpful information.
“Great article explaining the composition of wood plastic composite decking! I’ve been considering this material for my deck and was curious about its makeup. It’s interesting to learn that it’s a mix of recycled plastic and wood particles, with a higher content of wood. I’m impressed by its durability and combination of properties from both wood and plastic. However, I’m wondering where I can purchase this product. Any recommendations or personal experiences with purchasing wood plastic composite decking?”
“Great article! It’s fascinating to learn about the materials and manufacturing processes behind wood plastic composite decking. I’ve been considering building a deck and this has definitely piqued my interest in using WPC decking. However, I’m curious about the purchasing process – do you have any tips or recommendations for where to buy WPC decking? Thanks for sharing this informative piece!”
As a composite building materials expert with over 15 years of experience, I can attest to the fact that wood plastic composite (WPC) decking has become increasingly popular in recent years. Its versatility, durability, and longevity make it a top choice for homeowners looking to build a deck.
But what exactly is WPC decking made of? This blog post does a great job of breaking it down for readers. Wood plastic composites are typically made from a mixture of recycled plastic and reclaimed wood particles, with a higher content of wood than plastic. This combination allows for the best properties of both materials to be utilized, making WPC decking a superior option compared to traditional wood or plastic decking.
I also appreciate the mention of the early days of WPC decking. It’s important for readers to understand the history of this material and how it has evolved over time. As the manufacturing processes have improved, so has the quality and durability of WPC decking. It’s no wonder that it has become a popular choice for deck building.
Overall, this blog post provides valuable information about the materials used in WPC decking and the reasons behind its popularity. As an expert in this field, I can confidently say that WPC decking is a great choice for any deck project. Keep up the informative content!
“Great article! I’ve been considering building a deck and have been curious about wood plastic composite decking. It’s interesting to learn that it’s made from a mixture of recycled plastic and wood particles. I appreciate the breakdown of the material makeup and how it combines the best properties of both wood and plastic decking. I’m definitely considering this as an option now. Do you have any recommendations on where to purchase wood plastic composite decking? Thanks for the informative read!”
This article provides a thorough explanation of what wood plastic composite decking is made of and its advantages over other materials. However, I am curious about the purchasing process for this product. Have you personally used wood plastic composite decking or do you have any recommendations for where to buy it? Thank you for sharing this informative piece.
This article provides a comprehensive explanation of what wood plastic composite decking is made of and the manufacturing process behind it. It’s great to know that it’s a mixture of recycled plastic and reclaimed wood particles, making it a more sustainable option. However, I’m curious about the purchasing process for this decking material. Is it easily accessible and readily available? Thank you for sharing this informative piece.
“Great read! I’ve been considering using wood plastic composite decking for my new deck, but I wasn’t sure about the material makeup. This article answered all my questions and I appreciate the insight into the manufacturing process. However, I’m still curious about where to purchase this type of decking. Do you have any recommendations or personal experiences with suppliers? Thanks for sharing this informative piece!”
This article provides a great overview of what wood plastic composite decking is made of and how it’s manufactured. I appreciate the explanation of its advantages over other materials and the history behind its popularity. However, I’m curious about the purchasing process for this type of decking. Do you have any tips or recommendations for finding and purchasing high-quality wood plastic composite decking? Thank you for sharing this informative piece.
This article provides a great overview of the composition and benefits of wood plastic composite decking. It’s interesting to learn that it’s made from a mixture of recycled plastic and wood particles, making it a sustainable and durable option for decking. However, I’m curious about the purchasing process and any potential personal experiences with this type of decking. Overall, this article has definitely piqued my interest in wood plastic composite decking.
Great article! I’ve been looking into building a deck and have heard about wood plastic composite decking, but wasn’t sure what it was made of. It’s interesting to learn that it’s a mixture of recycled plastic and wood particles, and that it combines the best properties of both materials. I’m curious about where I can purchase this type of decking, as I’m looking for a durable and sustainable option. Any suggestions or personal experiences with purchasing wood plastic composite decking would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for sharing this informative piece!
“Great article! I’ve been considering using wood plastic composite decking for my own deck project, but I wasn’t sure what it was actually made of. This article answered all my questions and provided some interesting background on the material. However, I’m still unsure about where to purchase it. Do you have any recommendations or personal experience with buying wood plastic composite decking? Any insights would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!”