What is wood plastic composite (WPC)?

Wood composite is a material crafted from a blend of natural wood fibers, typically sourced from recycled timber and wood products, combined with recycled man-made materials like plastics. This results in a versatile wood composite that can be moulded or shaped into nearly any form, making it an excellent alternative to 100% natural wood traditionally used in garden decking.

What are the benefits of wood composite decking?

Decking made from wood composite has many benefits over traditional wood decking in that it involves no painting, staining, sealing or sanding. This makes it great low maintenance garden decking solution that does not fade or splinter. It is also more slip resistant than natural timber and comes with our 25 year residential warranty.

How is reclaimed wood used in WPC?

The wood used in composite decking boards is sourced from reclaimed or recycled wood that has been discarded by modern industrial processes or after domestic use. This reclaimed wood undergoes processing to create a fine wood flour, which serves as the wood component of the WPC decking boards.

Wood composite is now used to manufacture replacements for all wooden decking components. This results in a garden or outdoor decking structure that looks just as good as traditional natural wood decking, but is virtually maintenance free and has a guaranteed life of at least 15 years.

Unlike natural timber, which is grown, WPC decking is manufactured, allowing for customisable options such as coloured composites and varying textures. The future of WPC products is promising, and the use of these materials in modern garden and outdoor structures is only expected to grow in the coming years. We stock one of the largest collections of composite decking in the UK. With our diverse ranges, there is something for every taste and every budget. Browse our composite decking range.

How is recycled plastic used in WPC?

The 'P' in WPC Decking stands for plastic, specifically reclaimed or recycled plastic processed into plastic beads. This processing makes the plastic more manageable for further processing, and when combined with recycled wood flour, it forms raw wood plastic composite (WPC).

What is the manufacturing process of WPC?

• Blending: The wood fibers and plastic are mixed together, often with additional additives such as colorants, UV stabilisers, and bonding agents.
• Extrusion: The mixture is then heated and extruded into the desired shape, whether it be decking boards, fencing, or cladding.
• Moulding: Alternatively, the mixture can be moulded into specific forms and designs, offering versatility in the production of various products.

What is capped composite decking?

Capped composite decking is the latest development in composite decking products. It is composite decking that has had a durable, moisture-resistant polymer sleeve added during the manufacturing process. While standard WPC decking is durable and long lasting, capped composite decking boards add yet a new dimension to the possibilities for modern wood composites. Who should consider capped composite decking? Find out more in our blog.

What motivated the development of WPC?

Garden decking became popular during the mid to late 1990's, it is reported that the increase in popularity of garden decking was influenced by T.V. programs like 'Ground Force' and its handyman Tommy Walsh. During this time in the UK, garden decking, including frames and boards were predominately made from 100% natural timber. Without proper maintenance and treatment, this timber would eventually decay and rot.

As modern garden decking designs evolved, environmentalists raised concerns about the impact of the increasing demand for timber on the world's forests. Popular designs such as raised decking platforms and wooden patio walkways were seen as contributing to the depletion of natural resources.

Around the time traditional wooden garden decking was gaining popularity in the UK, gardeners and homeowners in the USA, who had been using wooden decking for some time, began experimenting with a new composite decking material.

This natural wood and man-made fibre composite material, despite being slightly more expensive than wood, quickly became the top choice for all outdoor decking needs due to its lower maintenance requirements and longer lifespan compared to traditional wood decking products. 

Still not convinced about how composite decking can benefit you and the environment? Read our blog - Debunking 9 myths and misconceptions about composite decking.

Explore our full range of composite products here, including decking, cladding, balustrade, and fencing.