Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Outdoor Synthetic Decking and Treads for Your Project

If you are looking for the best solution to replace natural wood in the decoration of parquet floors, Deckplanet is the ideal choice. Its advanced technology, based on the extrusion technique, combines reclaimed wood fibres and recycled PVC to create a high quality, environmentally friendly and durable cladding. Here is a detailed guide to help you make the best choice for your exterior flooring.

What is Synthetic Outdoor Decking?

The synthetic outdoor flooringalso known as composite deckingis a modern and sustainable alternative to natural wood. This material is manufactured using the extrusion technique, which combines reclaimed wood fibres and recycled PVC. The result is a high quality, environmentally friendly and extremely durable product, ideal for outdoor decking.

Types of Track for Installing Outdoor Decking

There are multiple options and types of profiles to support the battens or boards of outdoor decking. The following are the most commonly used types of battens or profiles:

Types of Track for Installing Outdoor Decking

There are many options and types of profiles to support the slats or planks of outdoor decking. The following are the types of battens or profiles most commonly used:

Wooden rails

Among the wooden stripsThe most common is the R4 autoclave-treated pine batten. This treatment is particularly suitable for exteriors, in contact with the ground or fresh water, and exposed to permanent humidification. The wooden strip treated pine is the most widely used in outdoor decking installations as it is the most economical option with optimum performance.

PVC or Composite Trackers

The PVC or composite battens are usually made of the same material as the outdoor decking and are manufactured using the same extrusion technique. They are available in hollow or solid structure and in various sizes. PVC battens with a hollow structure are susceptible to the risk of losing firmness and yielding to weight, so it is important to choose the right option according to the needs of the project.

Metal Tracks

There are several options of metal battens, profiles or slats, which can be made of aluminium, iron or steel. These options are often used for more technical installations in projects with special features. The metal rails offer high strength and durability, ideal for projects that require greater stability and support.

Why Choose Solid or Solid Composite Decking?

The emergence of composite wood or WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) is related to human awareness and the importance of preserving forests, as well as the possibility that technology has made it possible to manufacture an alternative to natural wood, overcoming its natural characteristics.

Advantages of Composite decking

1. SustainabilityComposite materials typically incorporate about 70% of recycled materials, making this a "green" and environmentally friendly product.
2. DurabilityWood composite has a density greater than 1.15, making it an engineered material that ensures greater longevity without the need for maintenance.
3. Resistance: The composite decking is highly resistant to fungus, UV rays and discolouration, thanks to the incorporation of elements that ensure high density and resistance.
4. Variety of PolymersPolymers used in the manufacture of composite decking can be of various types, including polyolefins (polyethylene, polypropylene), PVC, glass fibre, ABS or a mixture of all of them.

Characteristics of Solid Composite Decking

The solid composite decking offers high performance and, although it is usually more expensive, it is much more durable and reliable. Its main advantages include:

• High impact resistanceSolid profile: As it is a solid profile, its mechanical resistance is very high.
• Low water absorptionGenerally less than 0.5% when immersed in water for 24 hours.
• Mechanical stabilityMaintains its characteristics when cut, thanks to its solid composition.

  

Frequently Asked Questions about Synthetic Outdoor Decking and Treads

What is the extrusion technique?

Extrusion is a manufacturing process in which reclaimed wood fibres and recycled PVC are combined to create a composite material. This process ensures that the final product is high quality, environmentally friendly and durable.

What is the difference between wooden battens and PVC or composite battens?

Wooden battens, especially autoclave-treated pine, are an economical and efficient option for supporting outdoor decking. However, PVC or composite battens, manufactured using the same extrusion technique as decking, offer greater strength and durability, although they can be more expensive.

Why choose metal battens?

Metal battens, available in aluminium, iron or steel, are ideal for projects that require greater stability and support. These options are common in more technical installations and projects with special features.

What are the advantages of solid or solid composite decking?

Solid or solid composite decking offers high impact resistance, low water absorption and mechanical stability. It is also a sustainable and environmentally friendly product, made from recycled materials and designed to last without the need for maintenance.

How is synthetic outdoor decking installed?

The installation of synthetic outdoor decking is a simple process that can be carried out by professionals or by yourself with the right tools. The strips or boards are placed on the battens, ensuring a stable and resistant base.

What maintenance does composite decking require?

One of the great advantages of composite decking is its low maintenance. It does not require sealing, painting or special treatments, and is resistant to fungus, UV rays and fading.

Conclusion

Choosing synthetic outdoor decking and battens is crucial to ensure a high-quality, durable and hard-wearing decking floor. At Deckplanet, we offer a wide range of options to suit all your needs and preferences. Feel free to explore our online shop and find the perfect solution for your outdoor decking project.

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