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If you’re in the planning stages of building decking in your garden, one of the biggest questions you’re likely facing is which material to choose. While wood is often the most obvious choice, have you considered plastic decking as an alternative? An increasingly popular alternative to classic timber decking, plastic decking offers a unique range of benefits that make it a compelling choice of material. If you’re not quite convinced yet, not to worry! In this blog, we’ll cover all of the biggest reasons to install plastic decking in your garden space.
When we talk about ‘plastic decking’, we’re typically referring to uPVC decking. uPVC is a sustainable thermoplastic otherwise known as unplaticised polyvinyl chloride. Thanks to its rigidity and durability, uPVC is widely used as a replacement for timber in the construction industry. The end result produces a synthetic appearance which can be designed in a variety of sizes and colours to match your needs and preferences. As well as decking and deck boards, you might also find uPVC in used on vinyl windows and doors.
Perhaps the most notorious advantage of opting for plastic decking is just how durable it is. Unlike wood, which is susceptible to rot, decay and insect or pest damage, plastic decking is resistant to these common issues. This also means that plastic decking can easily withstand all year round exposure to the elements, including rain, snow and harsh sunlight, without deteriorating prematurely. Not only does this mean that your plastic decking is likely to last longer, but it also makes it far more cost-effective.
Leading up from our last point, because wooden decking is more prone to weathering and other symptoms, preventing these issues from occuring often requires regular cleaning, staining and sealing to properly protect it from moisture and UV damage. By contrast, plastsic decking requires very little maintenance to keep it looking its best.
Because it’s so resistant to common problems that timber decking faces, plastic decking can easily be cleaned with soap and water, without the need for harsh chemical cleaners or intensive scrubbing. This is great news for busy homeowners who don’t want to dedicate a lot of time to maintaining their decking – plastic decking frees up plenty of time for you to enjoy your garden instead!
We don’t tend to perceive plastic as an eco-friendly material, which is why you may not initially think of plastic decking as a sustainable choice. However, many plastic decking products, such as uPVC, are actually recyclable, and can be melted and turned into something else once you’re done with it. This helps to lower the demand for virgin resources and reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills.
On top of this, because plastic decking lasts so long and requires less maintenance, it yields a significantly lower environmental impact than wooden decking materials. If you’re particularly eco-concious, plastic decking conveniently allows you to enjoy this type of garden feature without causing harm to the planet.
Another great perk of opting for plastic decking is the variety of colours and styles avai;able to you. Whether you prefer something akin to the look of natural wood, or want to opt for a fun, contemporary shade, there’s bound to be an option to suit you and your garden’s style preferences. The possibilities are endless!
It’s natural to want to keep everyone that spends time in your garden safe – partiuclarly if you live with young children, elderly people or those with mobility issues – and wet surfaces can often pose risks. Fortunately, plastic decking is designed to be slip-resistant, even when wet, making it a much safer option than timber alternatives and providing you with peace of mind. Plus, because its splinter-free, plastic decking is more than safe for bare feet and pet paws, allowing everyone to enjoy the garden without worry.
While the upfront cost of plastic decking is something to consider, the money you’ll save in the long run is very appealing. As mentioned above, plastic decking requires little maintenance and has a longer lifespan than wooden decking, in time you’ll find yourself saving money on repairs, replacements and general upkeep. With plastic decking, you’ll simply never find yourself pouring money into your investment in the years to follow.
Here at Fitrite, we’re experts in all things related to plastic garden decking. Here are just a handful of the ways we’ve used composite and uPVC decking to transform the gardens of our clients.
As part of an ambitious project to breathe new life into a mid-sized garden, the Fitrite team were responsible for the installation of uPVC decking and fencing, alongside a hot tub fitting. This job was complicated by the positioning of the garden atop a significant incline, making precise measurements and careful preparation a necessity. We worked closely with the client throughout the project to make sure the exact design that they proposed was met.
A bespoke project started entirely from scratch, the Fitrite team was tasked with installing access ramps and uPVC decking for a client with mobility issues. Our efforts culminated in a space that restored the client’s independence and opened up new possibilities for enjoyment in their garden.
Has this article persuaded you that plastic decking is the right choice for your garden? If so, you might be keen to find a reliable company to professionally design and install it for you. Luckily for you, this is where Fitrite comes in.
At Fitrite, our premium-quality, bespoke plastic decking has the power to completely transform your outdoor living space. Our highly skilled team of professionals can provide knowledgeable design suggestions and layout expertise, maximising your deck’s aesthetics and functionality.
Plus, because we are experts, we’re able to ensure your installation expands the functionality of your garden, providing greater space for relaxation, dining and entertainment. Choose from an array of colours, textures and finishes to suit your unique tastes.
To book an appointment with our team and get started on your dream decking, please click here and fill out our online form.
