The wood fibers in the core make composite deck boards strong.
Capped composite decking vs composite decking.
At the end of the day the difference in heat retention on a hot summer day between real wood capped composite and capped polymer is fairly insignificant.
Capped decking offers extra protection in the form of a hard outer shell.
Uncapped decking is the more cost effective choice but it is also more vulnerable to staining and mold growth if not carefully maintained.
Composite decking boards are made using pre and post consumer recycled plastic content mixed with timber mill scraps.
Both composite and pvc decking materials can be either capped or uncapped.
The core of capped decking is similar to composite or made from cellular pvc but that core is covered with a layer of denser tougher polymer.
Decking options have grown exponentially over the past few years.
Capped composite decking has a core to cover bond that when manufactured has a surface coating bonded to the composite during the co extrusion process.
All composite decking will absorb a little more heat than real wood making it hotter to the touch when exposed to the sun for long periods of time.
They are all hot.
Composite was a big improvement over wood but today most manufacturers offer something even better.
With composite deck boards you will experience less expansion and contraction than pvc decking which means those precisely cut corners will stay closer together over time.
Before that the only option available for most folks was wood which was available in cedar hardwood or pressure treated.
The leading capped composite decking manufacturer in the industry timbertech pro boasts an impressive 30 year fade and stain warranty.
Between composites capped polymer decking will retain less heat and dissipate heat quicker than capped composite.
Capped composite decking has a cover that is bonded to the core during manufacturing.
Capped or shelled decking.
Uncapped composite decking is the costlier method.
Capping is not an add on.
However in 1996 composite decking trex hit the market and gained huge popularity since it offered a low maintenance option for users.
Capped composite decking is also non porous which provides resistance to mold mildew splintering rotting and staining.