Choosing the right material for your composite deck is crucial, especially if you're an eco-conscious homeowner or outdoor enthusiast. With the growing trend towards sustainable living, it's essential to understand the pros and cons of popular materials like wood shavings and rice hulls. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the differences, benefits, and installation tips, helping you make an informed decision.
Introduction to Composite Decking Materials
Composite decking has become a popular choice for many homeowners, offering durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Traditionally, wood shavings have been the go-to filler in composite decking. However, rice hulls are emerging as a strong contender, known for their eco-friendliness and resilience.
In this post, we aim to provide clarity on the difference between wood shavings and rice hulls in composite decking. We'll explore their longevity, value, installation ease, and sustainability. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of which material best suits your needs.
Wood Shavings vs Rice Hulls – What's the Difference?
Understanding Wood Shavings
Wood shavings are a traditional component in composite decking. They offer a natural look and feel, closely mimicking real wood. However, they can be prone to issues like rot, mold, and swelling, especially in moist environments.
The Rise of Rice Hulls
Rice hulls, on the other hand, are a newer alternative. These are the hard protective coverings of grains of rice, and they offer excellent durability and resistance to water, mold, and rot. Unlike wood shavings, rice hulls do not swell, making them a more robust choice for outdoor settings.
Key Differences
Durability: Rice hulls are more resistant to environmental stressors compared to wood shavings.
Eco-friendliness: Rice hulls are a byproduct of agriculture, making them a sustainable option.
Maintenance: Decks using rice hulls require less maintenance over time.
Longevity and Safety
Durability Matters
One of the primary concerns for any decking material is its longevity. Rice hulls stand out here due to their resistance to common decking issues like water penetration, mold, and rot. This makes them ideal for humid and rainy climates.
Safety First
Safety is another critical factor. Decks made with rice hulls are less likely to cause slips and slivers, thanks to proprietary capping technologies. This ensures a safer surface for walking, especially in wet conditions.
Warranty and Assurance
Products like those from Green Shield Deck Builders offer lifetime warranties, emphasizing their confidence in the durability and safety of rice hull composites. This assurance provides peace of mind for homeowners investing in their outdoor spaces.
Value and Quality
Assessing Value
While rice hull composite decking might have a higher upfront cost compared to wood shavings, the long-term benefits often justify the investment. Fewer repairs, replacements, and maintenance mean saving money over time.
Superior Quality
The quality of rice hull composites is often superior, as they are designed to withstand harsh conditions without compromising on performance. The boards that Green Shield Deck Builders offers maintain up to 5X - 8X more mass against abrasive forces, ensuring lasting durability.
Customer Satisfaction
High-quality products backed by robust warranties result in great customer satisfaction. This satisfaction is reflected in the positive reviews and testimonials from users who enjoy both the functional and aesthetic benefits of their rice hull composite decks.
Easy Installation and Sustainability
Simplified Installation
Modern composite decking systems, whether using wood shavings or rice hulls, are designed for easy installation. Systems practiced by Green Shield Deck builders off a quick, and secure setup, making your project smooth.
Eco-friendly Solutions
Rice hulls are an eco-friendly choice, contributing to sustainability efforts. Composite decking made from rice hulls and other recycled materials helps reduce deforestation and landfill waste. For instance, a 12x12 foot TruNorth deck removes 12,000 plastic bottles from landfills and saves 90 gallons of oil.
Energy-efficient Manufacturing
Green Shields direct to manufacturer relationship emphasize environmental responsibility by employing energy-efficient and water-conserving practices. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the values of eco-conscious consumers who prioritize reducing their carbon footprint.
Conclusion – Making the Right Choice
In conclusion, while both wood shavings and rice hulls have their merits, the latter offers superior benefits in terms of durability, safety, and sustainability. For homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts looking to invest in a reliable and eco-friendly decking solution, rice hull composite decking stands out as the clear winner.
Ready to elevate your outdoor space with a durable and sustainable decking solution? Explore our range of rice hull composite decking options and transform your backyard into an eco-friendly haven.