Greener spaces
Aidan Bell of EnviroBuild explains how composite decking made from wood and recycled plastic can offer a sustainable as well as safe alternative, as seen on a recent case study
decking that already existed in the garden. However, they soon discovered that if they wanted it to continue looking good, it would need annual maintenance. Wooden decking is prone to rot and other factors that can make it unsightly in a short space of time, and without the right treatment it can quickly become ugly and unsafe. The problem that the Kellys faced is a com-
W
mon one for owners of wooden decking. Although the product typically has a lifespan of around 10 years, it needs stripping down and varnishing every year in order to keep it looking its best. Wooden decking can’t simply be left alone and still be in great condition whenever you need it to be. Steve and Nicola’s issues with their decking
are not unique. Although wooden decking looks good – and is still sought after by many families – there are some drawbacks when it comes to its safety and maintenance. The reg- ular care that the Kellys’ decking needed was frustrating for the family, but it was how slippery
48 selfbuilder & homemaker
www.sbhonline.co.uk
hen Steve Kelly and his wife, Nicola, bought their first house in 2011, they liked the wooden
the surface became when wet that finally persuaded them to consider other options. After Nicola’s father slipped and fell on their deck- ing, they decided that enough was enough and began to look at what they could replace it with.
First and foremost, they wanted the new decking to be safe for both their elderly parents and their young son
garden. First and foremost, they wanted the new decking to be safe for both their elderly parents and their young son. This meant finding a sur- face that was non-slippery and splinter free – a difficult combination for wood. It was also important to them that it would be long-lasting and easy to maintain – something that didn’t need varnishing or treating with chemicals every year. The couple were also looking for some- thing that would be environmentally friendly, as well as looking good – particularly as Nicola is an interior designer. The family found the solution to their problem
Having lived with wooden decking for a
while, Steve and Nicola were clear on what they wanted from a replacement product in their
in a recommendation from a tradesman who had installed composite windows in their home. He suggested that they use a similar material for decking. After speaking to Nicola’s brother, who happened to be a carpenter, they were convinced that WPC decking was the right course to take.
What is WPC
WPC is made from reclaimed wood and recy- cled thermoplastics (plastics which can be repeatedly melted and cooled). Waste wood is
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