Many homeowners enjoy spending time outdoors on a deck or porch. Unfortunately, elements can often take a toll on traditional decking materials over time, causing rot, fading, and peeling. These materials (like wood) also require a substantial amount of regular maintenance and, eventually, total replacement.
Some homeowners have tried composite decking alternatives over the years. However, many composites break down over time and have an unnatural plastic-like appearance. Fiber cement is an excellent option for homeowners seeking a durable, resilient, and natural-looking decking material that retains the aesthetic of real wood but without the need for regular maintenance.Â
Why Fiber Cement Decking Is Different
Fiber cement is a decking material that combines wood pulp, Portland cement, sand, and fibers. This unique combination makes it extremely moisture-resistant and durable compared to natural wood and other composite materials. Unlike other decking materials, it doesn’t absorb water, swell, warp, rot, or fade. Moreover, it retains its color over time and doesn’t need repainting or staining except for aesthetic changes.
Fiber cement doesn’t contain any wood or plastic. Its wood pulp and fibers create natural grain patterns when pressed, giving it a realistic, wood-like appearance without the maintenance required for real timber.
4 Key Benefits of Fiber Cement Decking
These are some of the reasons you may want to opt for fiber cement decking for your porch or deck.
1. Offers a Realistic Wood Look
With no plastic content, fiber cement looks and feels like natural wood. And unlike real timber, it retains this appearance because it doesn’t fade, peel, chip, or warp. It offers the visual appeal of wood without continual upkeep.
2. Has a Range of Plank Styles
Fiber cement decking comes in various widths, lengths, textures, and patterns, similar to wood decking. This versatility allows customized deck designs to match surrounding architecture and aesthetic tastes.
Wide, smooth planks create clean, modern looks for contemporary homes. More traditional homes may look better with narrower planks with visible wood grain. Fiber cement’s capacity for custom stain colors in different plank sizes, textures, and finishes facilitates personalized deck integration with existing aesthetics.
3. Provides Extreme Durability
Exceptional durability allows this type of decking to last decades without replacement or intensive upkeep procedures. Owners should plan to hose debris off occasionally without impacting integrity or appearance.
4. Easy to Install
Fiber cement utilizes traditional woodworking tools and methods. It pairs enduring stable construction with easy integration into custom curb appeal. Experienced deck builders can easily acclimate to minor procedure differences.
So, Is Fiber Cement Decking Right for Your Porch or Deck?
Fiber cement decking offers the beauty of wood with exceptional resistance to moisture, temperature extremes, pests, and flames. You can choose from various textured planks in different styles and finishes to seamlessly integrate with your architecture and landscape.
The best part is that fiber cement requires only occasional debris clearance beyond installation, so you can enjoy your deck more without worrying about maintenance.Â
If you are looking for a durable, low-maintenance outdoor living solution that combines aesthetic warmth with structural longevity, fiber cement decking is an excellent choice. Its longevity and style make it the perfect material for building a deck that lasts years. Choose fiber cement decking for a beautiful and long-lasting outdoor living space.
FAQs About Fiber Cement Decking
Does fiber cement heat up in sunlight like composites?
No, fiber cement doesn’t heat up in sunlight like composites. Quality formulations include cooling agents to minimize sunlight heat absorption. This ensures that it doesn’t pose any fire risks and remains comfortable if you’re walking barefoot.
How long does fiber cement decking last versus wood?
Fiber cement decking lasts, on average, for over 40 years when properly installed and maintained. In comparison, pressure-treated lumber has an expectancy of 10 to 15 years. Fiber cement decking retains its appearance and maintains its integrity over time, while wood requires regular sealing, staining, and eventual total replacement due to deterioration.
Why does fiber cement cost more up-front than pressure-treated boards?
Although more expensive than pine decking initially, fiber cement saves money in the long run by reducing the need for ongoing maintenance, frequent applications of stain/sealant, and complete replacement every 10 to 15 years due to rot and splitting. It can also increase the resale value of your property.
