Composite boards are increasingly popular for fencing, particularly when installed on or near decks. Combining durability, ease of maintenance, and modern design options, composite materials are a practical solution for anyone seeking long-lasting performance. Here’s why they make sense for deck fences.
Key Benefits of Using Composite Boards for Fencing
1. Durable in Challenging Conditions
Composite boards are engineered from recycled wood fibers and plastics, making them resistant to rot, mold, and mildew. This is especially useful in regions like the Pacific Northwest, where wet weather can quickly degrade traditional wood fences. Composite boards hold up better over time, maintaining their appearance and structure with minimal intervention.
2. Minimal Maintenance
Unlike wood fences, composite fences don’t need regular staining, sealing, or painting. A simple rinse with water or an occasional wipe-down with mild soap is all it takes to keep them looking clean. This makes them ideal for homeowners who want a fence that requires little effort to maintain.
3. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Composite boards are made from recycled materials, which makes them a sustainable choice. By choosing composites, you’re not only reducing waste but also avoiding the need for chemical treatments often used with traditional wood.
4. Consistency and Versatility
Composite boards are available in a range of colors and textures, offering a consistent look that’s hard to achieve with natural wood. They don’t warp, twist, or splinter over time, so your fence will continue to look good and perform well for years to come.
Why Composite Fencing Excels on Decks
Deck fences face unique challenges, such as exposure to water, temperature fluctuations, and direct sunlight. Composite materials are well-suited to these conditions:
- Resistant to Moisture: Composite boards don’t absorb water, which prevents warping or swelling. This is critical for fences installed on decks where water exposure is unavoidable.
- Structural Stability: Composites remain straight and secure over time, reducing the likelihood of repairs or replacements.
- Longevity: With their resistance to environmental stressors, composite fences last significantly longer than wood, reducing the need for replacement and lowering long-term costs.
Privacy and Design Options
Composite privacy screens are another useful application. They create a modern, eco-friendly barrier that’s perfect for deck edges, patios, or other outdoor spaces. These screens offer excellent weather resistance, insect deterrence, and a clean aesthetic without the upkeep of wood.
Things to Consider Before Installing Composite Fences
- Cost: The upfront cost of composite boards is higher than wood, but the long lifespan and low maintenance often offset the initial expense over time.
- Surface Heat: Composite materials can retain heat in direct sunlight, so this is something to consider if your deck or fence is in full sun.
Conclusion
Composite boards are a practical, durable, and sustainable choice for deck fences. Their resistance to moisture, minimal maintenance needs, and aesthetic versatility make them an excellent investment for homeowners looking to combine functionality with style.
