In this blog, you'll learn what composite decking is made of, including its key ingredients like wood fibers and recycled plastic. We’ll explain how it’s made, its benefits, and why it’s an ideal choice for a low-maintenance, durable outdoor deck.

Thinking about building a new deck or replacing your old one? If you’re exploring decking options in Southwestern Ontario, you’ve probably come across something called composite decking. Maybe you’ve heard about its impressive durability and low-maintenance benefits, but do you know exactly what it’s made of? You may also be wondering, “Is this just another buzzword, or is composite decking really worth it?” Well, get comfy because we’re about to dive into the details and answer all your questions.

In this article, we’ll explore what composite decking is, break down what it’s made of, and why it might just be the best material for your deck-building needs. Spoiler alert: it’s more than just plastic and wood!

What Is Composite Decking?

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Before we dig into the specifics of what makes composite decking so great, let’s first define what it actually is. Simply put, composite decking is a man-made product made from a blend of wood fibres (or wood byproducts) and plastic. This combination gives composite decking the appearance of natural wood but with far more durability and significantly less maintenance—perfect for Ontario’s unpredictable weather conditions.

Unlike traditional wood decking, composite boards don’t splinter, warp, or rot. They’re made to resist moisture, mildew, and even insects. In other words, composite decking is the set-it-and-forget-it option for people who want a beautiful, long-lasting deck without endless upkeep.

So, if you’re tired of sanding, staining, and sealing your wood deck every few years, composite decking might just be your new best friend.

What Is Composite Decking Made Of?

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Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: what is composite decking actually made of? The primary ingredients are wood fibres and plastic. But there’s more to it than just throwing a few materials together.

1. Wood Fibers (or Wood Byproducts)

Wood fibres are a key component of composite decking, and they serve as the “wood” part of the mix. But what exactly are wood fibres? Well, they can come from a variety of sources, such as:

Sawdust: The fine particles of wood that are produced during the cutting or sanding of wood.

Wood Scraps: Leftover pieces of wood from manufacturing processes.

Recycled Wood: Some composite decking companies even use recycled wood from construction or old furniture.

These wood fibres are used because they mimic the texture of natural wood, giving composite decking its attractive wood-like appearance. Plus, they help add strength and rigidity to the material.

2. Plastic (Usually Recycled)

The other half of the composite decking recipe is plastic. Most composite decking products use recycled plastic as their plastic component. This can include:

Polyethylene (PE): This is the most commonly used plastic in composite decking.

Polypropylene (PP): A more rigid plastic option, sometimes used in higher-end decking products.

Recycled Plastic: Plastic from items like water bottles, grocery bags, and even milk jugs is often recycled and used to create the decking.

The plastic in composite decking serves a couple of purposes. First, it provides moisture resistance, keeping the decking from absorbing water and swelling like traditional wood. Second, it helps to bind everything together, creating a solid, durable, and resilient board.

3. Bonding Agents and Additives

While wood and plastic do most of the work, bonding agents and additives play an important role in ensuring the final product sticks together and behaves well under various conditions. These additives can include:

UV Protectants: This helps protect the decking from fading or discolouration due to sunlight exposure.

Mildew and Mold Inhibitors: To ensure that your decking doesn’t develop those unsightly (and unhealthy) spots of mold or mildew.

Fire Retardants: Some composite decking products include these to help prevent the material from catching fire too easily.

These additives are mixed in during the manufacturing process, ensuring that your composite decking can withstand everything from harsh sun to wet, mold-friendly environments.

How Is Composite Decking Made?

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Now that we know the key components let’s take a look at how composite decking comes together during the manufacturing process. Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds, but it does involve a bit of science and technology to ensure top-notch quality.

Step 1: The Mixing Process

The first step in making composite decking is to mix the wood fibres and plastic together. The wood fibres are ground up into smaller particles, while the plastic is usually shredded or processed into small pieces. These two materials are then blended along with bonding agents, stabilizers, and additives. The mixture is heated up to ensure everything blends smoothly.

Step 2: The Extrusion Process

Once everything is mixed, the composite material is fed into an extruder. This is a machine that shapes the material into long, continuous boards. The extrusion process ensures that the wood fibres and plastic are evenly distributed throughout the entire board.

As the mixture moves through the extruder, it is shaped into the final decking boards. These boards can then be molded into various sizes and shapes, depending on the desired final product. The boards are cooled and cut to the required length.

Step 3: Capping and Finishing (Optional)

Some composite decking products undergo an additional process called capping, where a thin layer of protective polymer is added to the outer surface of the boards. This cap provides extra protection against moisture, UV rays, and other elements, making the boards even more durable. It also helps prevent scratches, stains, and fading, which can be a common problem with non-capped composite decking.

After capping, the boards are further treated to ensure they have a smooth, attractive finish. Many composite decking products also have a wood grain pattern embossed into the surface to mimic the appearance of natural wood.

Types of Composite Decking

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When shopping for composite decking, you’ll find that there are different types available, depending on the way the material is constructed. The core composition of composite decking can vary, leading to different types of products, including:

1. Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC)

Wood-plastic composite (WPC) is the most traditional form of composite decking. It combines wood fibres and plastic, and it’s the type of decking most people are familiar with. WPC is a great choice if you’re looking for an eco-friendly, durable, and low-maintenance decking option.

Pros:

  • Affordable compared to other types of composite decking.
  • Strong and long-lasting.
  • Low maintenance—no sanding, staining, or sealing required.
  • Resistant to insects, mold, and mildew.

Cons:

  • May fade or discolour over time due to exposure to sunlight.
  • It can be prone to scratching if handled roughly.

2. Capped Composite Decking

Capped composite decking is a step up from traditional WPC. It has an additional layer of protection, often made from a polymer or other durable plastic material. This capping provides even better moisture resistance and UV protection, which means your deck will look good for even longer.

Pros:

  • Extra durability and resistance to fading, scratching, and staining.
  • Doesn’t need sealing, staining, or painting.
  • Available in a variety of colours and finishes.

Cons:

  • More expensive than non-capped composite decking.
  • It can get hot under direct sunlight.

3. Plastic Composite Decking

Plastic composite decking is made entirely from plastic (usually PVC) and contains no wood fibres. This type of decking is highly durable, waterproof, and incredibly low maintenance. Plastic composite decks are known for their smooth, consistent finish, and they don’t fade or rot.

Pros:

  • Completely waterproof and resistant to rot.
  • Low maintenance—no sanding, staining, or painting.
  • Available in a variety of colours and textures.

Cons:

  • Less natural appearance compared to wood composites.
  • Higher cost compared to WPC options.

Why Composite Decking Is Ideal for Southwestern Ontario

If you live in Southwestern Ontario, your deck needs to withstand a variety of weather conditions—freezing winters, humid summers, and everything in between. Here’s why composite decking is a great choice for your area:

  • Resistant to Moisture & Rot – Unlike wood, composite decking doesn’t absorb water, preventing warping and rotting.
  • Low Maintenance – No need to sand, stain, or seal—just occasional cleaning with soap and water. Learn about how to clean a composite deck.
  • Eco-Friendly – Many brands use recycled materials, making it a sustainable choice.
  • Durability – Composite decking lasts significantly longer than traditional wood decks, making it a worthwhile investment.

Conclusion: Is Composite Decking Right for You?

If you’re looking for a decking material that’s durable, low-maintenance, eco-friendly, and built to withstand Ontario’s weather, then composite decking is a fantastic choice. It’s made from a mix of wood fibres and recycled plastic, offering the best of both worlds—strength and beauty without the hassle.

Whether you go with traditional wood-plastic composite, capped composite, or plastic composite decking, you can rest assured that you’re investing in a material that will last for years to come. So, skip the endless sanding and staining and opt for composite decking to create a beautiful and durable outdoor space with minimal effort.

Get Started Today!

We specialize in composite deck installation, offering durable, low-maintenance solutions for your outdoor space. Contact us today to create a beautiful, hassle-free deck!

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Written by : Lawrence Lavalle

Lawrence Lavalle is a highly skilled deck builder who values quality and attention to detail. With years of experience, he’s hands-on from start to finish, ensuring each deck is built to last. Lawrence believes in creating outdoor spaces that feel like an extension of your home, offering both beauty and functionality. His dedication has earned him a loyal following of clients who trust him to deliver lasting results.

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