Why Composite Decking Cobham is Revolutionizing Outdoor Spaces
Picture this: You’ve just finished your morning coffee, stepping out onto a deck that looks as fresh as the day it was installed – despite surviving three British winters, two rowdy family barbecues, and that time your neighbor’s cat decided to use it as a scratching post. That’s the magic of composite decking Cobham brings to both homes and businesses. Let’s dive into why everyone from Surrey homeowners to local café owners are making the switch.
The Green Choice That Doesn’t Compromise on Style
Remember when “eco-friendly” meant rough, recycled plastic boards that looked like they belonged in a school playground? Those days are gone. Modern composite decking Cobham uses clever blends of reclaimed wood fibers and recycled plastics – we’re talking about giving everything from old milk bottles to construction offcuts a stylish second life. One local nursery school even used their old play equipment in the mix when upgrading their outdoor area!
Built to Handle Whatever the British Weather Throws at It
Let’s face it – our weather’s about as predictable as a toddler with a paintbrush. Traditional wood decks warp and fade faster than you can say “unexpected hailstorm”, but composite boards? They laugh in the face of UV rays and shrug off heavy rain. The secret’s in the manufacturing process that locks in color and texture. I’ve seen installations near coastal areas that still look pristine after years of salt spray and strong winds.
The “Wash and Forget” Decking Solution
Who actually enjoys spending weekends sanding and staining decking? With composite materials, maintenance becomes as simple as an occasional hose-down. A local pub owner told me switching to composite decking Cobham saved him over 100 staff hours annually in maintenance – time better spent perfecting their craft beers!
Getting It Right: Installation Made Smarter
While DIY installation is possible, most professionals recommend leaving it to certified installers. The hidden clip system needs precise spacing – about the width of a 50p coin between boards. Proper airflow underneath is crucial too. When the team at Cobham Garden Centre installed theirs, they raised it slightly higher than normal to account for their sloping terrain.
Composite vs Traditional: The Real Costs
| Feature | Composite Decking | Wood Decking |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | £50-£75 per m² | £30-£50 per m² |
| 10-Year Maintenance | £100-£200 | £800-£1,200 |
| Lifespan | 25+ years | 10-15 years |
| Resale Value Boost | Up to 7% | Up to 3% |
Beyond Backyards: Unexpected Applications
A local microbrewery created an entire outdoor tasting room using composite decking Cobham materials for walls and flooring. The moisture resistance makes it perfect for poolside areas too – no more worrying about splashes or wet towels! One of my favorite uses? Creating multi-level decks that double as seating during summer gatherings.
Keeping It Looking Fresh Year-Round
While composite decking Cobham needs minimal care, a twice-yearly clean with mild soap keeps it looking sharp. Avoid harsh pressure washers – a stiff broom does the trick. For stubborn stains (we’re looking at you, red wine spills), a paste of baking soda and water works wonders. Remember to clear fallen leaves regularly though – they can cause staining if left too long!
Why Composite Thrives in British Climates
Our damp weather is actually ideal for composite materials. Unlike wood that absorbs moisture and swells, the sealed surface repels water while maintaining dimensional stability. During last year’s heatwave, composite decks stayed cooler underfoot than traditional stone patios – a real bonus for barefoot summer days!
What the Pros Want You to Know
Local installer Mark from Cobham Deck Specialists shares: “Always check the substructure can handle the extra weight – composite is denser than wood. We recommend spacing joists about 40cm apart. And don’t forget expansion gaps – materials need room to breathe as temperatures change!”
Is Composite Decking Cobham Right For You?
If you’re tired of replacing rotten boards or want to spend weekends enjoying your garden rather than maintaining it, composite decking could be your outdoor space game-changer. Why not visit the Cobham Garden Centre’s display area to see different finishes in person? As one recent convert told me: “It’s like having a brand-new deck every summer, without any of the work!”
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.