Are you fed up with always fighting against rot, warping, and annoying insects that treat your wooden deck like a never-ending feast? Maybe you want a look that feels more natural and fits in with your backyard paradise, all while being gentle with the environment. Or maybe you're just tired of the endless upkeep that regular decking materials require.
If any of these situations sound familiar, it might be a good idea to switch to creating a more environmentally friendly deck.
How to Build the Most Environmentally Friendly Decking
You can build an environmentally friendly deck by using composite or renewable decking, decking screws with superior corrosion resistance, and sealants or finishes that are all-natural.
Using composite decking helps us to save forests and reduce waste, which is a great way to take care of our planet. Eco-friendly decks are designed to resist rot, bugs, and tough weather. This makes it easy to keep your outdoor spaces looking great with minimal maintenance.
Many decking options are designed to be less slippery and free from harmful chemicals, which makes them a safer choice for families.
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Choosing eco deck boards
Composite Decking
Some composite decking, such as Trex, is made with 95% recycled content, while other brands use only 80% recycled materials.
Does not absorb moisture: Since composite materials don't absorb moisture, this means you won't have to worry about them swelling, warping, or rotting when it rains, snows, or gets really humid.
An excellent opportunity to use hidden fasteners: Most composite decking comes pre-grooved, making the using of hidden decking fasteners an easy option. This creates a clean smooth surface on your decking, with no screws visible at all.
Retains deck color better: Composite decks keep their color longer because they have special coatings and pigments that resist UV rays. This makes them stronger against the sun's intense rays. This means that the color will last longer and fade less over time.
Resists Rot and Insects: Composite decking resists rot and insects due to its reclaimed organic wood fiber and recycled plastic composition. So, homeowners can relax knowing that termites and other pests won't invade their decks.
Low maintenance, low impact: You can forget about treating, staining, or painting your decking ever again. To clean your composite decking, you just need some household soap, a sponge, a bucket, a hose, and a soft-bristled brush. This means you’ll have to do less maintenance, plus you can feel good knowing that harmful ingredients aren’t being released into the atmosphere.
Lasts Longer: Composite decks last about 25 to 30 years on average. High-end composite decking can last for 50 years or even longer! Some manufacturers even provide warranties ranging from 25 to 50 years on their deck boards and accessories.
Want to save more water?: Use a pressure washer instead. It uses less water than a regular hose, but it cleans just as effectively. You can also collect rainwater to be even more eco-friendly.
A well-maintained wood deck can endure 10–20 years. The type of wood, weather, and upkeep greatly affect this life expectancy.
Pine Wood
Renewable source: Pine stands out as an eco-friendly option because it is a renewable supply. Plantation grown Pine trees mature in about 25 to 30 years, and they're famously quick growers. This makes it possible to replenish faster than hardwood species that grow more slowly. This helps make sure we have a consistent amount of pine timber without depleting forests. Pressure treatment greatly increases the lifespan of this popular decking material.
Recyclable and biodegradable: Manufacturers can actually repurpose or recycle waste and byproducts from the manufacturing process. Pine wood products break down naturally when they reach the end of their lifecycle.
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Choosing eco-friendly deck screws
Stainless steel decking screws
Choose eco-friendly stainless steel deck screws that have a star drive (TORX) head. This design helps stop cam-out, which preserves the screw and makes the driver last longer.
The star drive (TORX) head design helps to transfer torque more effectively. This means it can make installation quicker and use less energy. This efficiency can result in a smaller overall impact on the environment during construction.
Longer lifespan: Stainless steel is well known for its strength and longevity. This makes it a great option for homes trying to lessen their environmental effect.
100% recyclable: Stainless steel is kept out of landfills by its high scrap metal value and relative ease of recycling. The recycled product is just as good as the original.
Zero chemicals: Since stainless steel is made without the use of chemicals. Recycling stainless steel doesn't release any chemicals either.
All natural: Although stainless steel isn't thought to be biodegradable because it won't break down, it is still environmentally friendly. This is because all of the components are natural and won't harm the environment when it does ultimately break down after thousands of years.
Zero maintenance: Homeowners can save on expensive repairs or replacements since stainless steel has exceptional corrosion resistance.
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Choosing eco-friendly finishes and sealants
Natural oil finishes
Linseed oil, also known as tung oil, comes from renewable resources. It is great at protecting your decks against weather and wear. These oils get deep into the wood and keep it looking natural while making it last longer.
Water-based sealants
Solvent-based sealants give off more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than water-based ones. This makes water-based sealants safer for both your family and the environment. These sealants help the deck last longer by making a clear, long-lasting shield against moisture and UV rays.
Natural insect repellents
Plant peppermint, lemon, garlic, and thyme as a border. These are all-natural bug repellents that will help keep bugs at bay and stop them from snacking on your deck.
Why Make the Switch to Sustainable Decking Materials?
Sustainable decking materials are a great choice for outdoor decks because they last a long time, look good, and are good for the environment.
Composite decking and stainless steel decking screws cost more upfront, but they're worth it in the end. Knowing that you built your outdoor deck in a responsible way is worth the effort.
Count on Trex for your composite decking needs and choose ATC Construction fasteners for environmentally friendly decking screws. For years, they have been helping homeowners in crafting an eco-friendly outdoor space.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions on How To Build A More Eco-Friendly Deck
Does eco deck get hot?
Eco deck boards are made to handle heat better than regular timber decking. Lots of eco-friendly composite deck boards come with heat-reflective pigments and special core materials. These features help keep the surface cooler, making it more comfortable for walking barefoot, even on those hot summer days.
Can you lay eco deck on concrete?
Yes, you can put eco-composite decking right on top of concrete. A lot of people use this method to change the look of their patios or porches. When putting eco deck boards down on concrete, it's important to make sure there is enough drainage and to use screws or adhesives that are made for concrete surfaces. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your eco-friendly decking product to make sure it is installed correctly.
Is eco deck slippery?
Eco composite decking is designed with safety as a top priority. Lots of eco deck boards come with textured surfaces or anti-slip treatments, which help with traction, even when your deck boards get a bit wet. However, make sure you take good care of your eco deck and keep it clean so it stays slip-resistant.
Is eco deck cheaper than timber?
Even though eco composite decking or stainless steel deck screws might have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional timber, they usually end up being more cost-effective over time.
When you think about how much less you’ll need to stain, seal, or replace boards and screws over time, eco deck boards can give you more bang for your buck.
