When it comes to creating beautiful and functional outdoor living spaces, decking plays a crucial role. Traditionally, wood has been the go-to material for decking due to its natural beauty and availability. However, as time has passed, alternative decking materials have emerged, offering improved durability, low maintenance, and enhanced aesthetics. One material that has gained significant popularity in recent years is PVC decking. Let’s explore the history of PVC decking and how it has evolved over time to become a preferred choice for home and caravan owners.
Where it started
The origins of PVC decking can be traced back to the 1980s. PVC, a synthetic plastic polymer, had already been widely used in various industries due to its excellent durability and resistance to moisture, rot, and insects. Recognising its potential, manufacturers began to experiment with PVC for outdoor decking applications.
Early PVC decking products faced several challenges. The first-generation PVC boards were typically made from a solid extrusion process, resulting in rigid, plank-like profiles. While these boards offered excellent durability and low maintenance, their appearance lacked the warmth and natural beauty of wood. They also had a tendency to expand and contract with temperature changes, leading to potential warping or buckling issues, which is never ideal for flooring applications.
Innovation of PVC decking
As technology advanced, manufacturers introduced hollow PVC boards, which aimed to address the rigidity and expansion problems of the solid profiles. These hollow boards featured internal chambers, reducing weight and improving thermal stability. Manufacturers then started incorporating wood flour or fibres into the PVC formulation, resulting in a more authentic wood-like appearance.
Technology developed, allowing manufacturers to create PVC boards with a protective cap layer. This cap layer, typically made of a durable polymer, enhanced resistance to fading, staining, and scratching while providing a realistic wood grain texture, replicating the natural look of wood decking that we all know and love, meaning homeowners could now enjoy the benefits of low maintenance without sacrificing aesthetics. The protective cap layer not only increased durability but also reduced the potential for mould growth and moisture absorption.
Becoming increasingly popular
As demand for PVC decking continued to grow, it also led to enhanced installation systems. Manufacturers developed concealed fastening systems, eliminating the need for visible screws or nails, and enhancing the deck’s overall appearance. These systems not only improve aesthetics but also allowed for easier installation and reduced the risk of potential hazards, such as tripping or splintering.
In recent years, PVC decking has seen a surge in popularity, becoming a sought-after alternative to traditional wood decking materials. This can be attributed to the material’s numerous advantages. PVC decking is highly resistant to moisture, making it an excellent choice for areas prone to high humidity, rain, or near-water installations. It does not require sealing, staining, or painting, significantly reducing maintenance efforts and costs. PVC decking’s resistance to fading, staining, and scratching ensures long-lasting beauty, even in harsh weather conditions. Regardless of the misconceptions surrounding PVC decking, it is in fact, an eco-friendly choice. It is made from recyclable materials and does not contribute to deforestation. By opting for PVC decking, homeowners can contribute to the preservation of forests and minimise their environmental impact.
At DekBoard, you’ll discover an impressive selection of PVC decking boards designed with both practicality and aesthetics in mind. Our innovative range of decking boards feature a charming wood grain effect pattern, adding a touch of traditional elegance to any outdoor space. To ensure safety, our decking boards are crafted with a satin finish that not only provides a subtle sheen but also includes an embossed texture for excellent slip resistance. In addition to the finish, the domed surface of our boards facilitates efficient water run-off, preventing any accumulation or pooling.
We understand the importance of hassle-free maintenance, which is why our decking boards are incredibly easy to clean. With just a minimal effort, you can restore their pristine appearance, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your outdoor space. Read more about our range of PVC decking.
How we can help
With over four decades of expertise in PVCu manufacturing, DekBoard specialises in providing high-quality PVC decking and balustrade solutions. As trusted suppliers in the industry, we are well experienced in decking and balustrade systems, offering our customers unparalleled knowledge and experience. Our wide-reaching network of authorised installers and reputable distributors allows us to distribute our premium PVC decking to various caravan parks, holiday parks, and lodges throughout the country. However, we do offer more than just being suppliers of caravan decking. Our PVC decking is also exceptionally well suited for residential gardens. Find a local, authorised decking installer here.
Regardless of whether the deck will be installed in a commercial holiday park or a residential environment, our PVC decking stands out as the superior option. Its low maintenance requirements, slip resistance, and absence of splinters make it the perfect choice for your outdoor space, home or away! Contact us.