Issues With Composite Lumber

Composite lumber is an alternative to wood products.  It is made by combining plastic from recycled products and sawdust created by mills during timber processing.  The result is a product that looks similar to lumber, but has some differing characteristics.  It is intended to be weather tolerant and durable, without the use of chemicals or regular maintenance. However, composite lumber is not problem free.

Mildew

Composite wood products that are in shaded areas can grow mold and mildew.  Since water does not absorb into the product, it remains on the surface.  Lack of sun to naturally dry the water provides the perfect environment for mold to flourish.  Mold and mildew can be washed away.  Regular sweeping of the area to remove pooled water also helps control mildew growth.

Fading

Shade is not the perfect environment for composite lumber and neither is the opposite, direct sun exposure.  Too much sunlight can cause fading.  Fortunately, the fading process seems to be temporary.  Whatever fading is going to take place will most likely do so within the first year. 

Susceptible to Wear

Composite lumber products, while they are hard and durable, can still be scratched and marked.  Metal patio furniture, yard tools and other hard objects can cut grooves and scratches in the surface of the product.  This can also happen with wood, but wood can be sanded.

Not Completely Maintenance Free

Manufacturers give the impression that composite lumber products require no maintenance and that is not completely true.  To keep composite lumber looking its best, it must be cleaned periodically.  Frequency of cleaning will depend on how and where the lumber is used.  The solutions made for this purpose are not as environmentally friendly as the lumber itself.  A good stiff brush is also necessary, to scrub mildew and buildup from the surface.

Deterioration

Composite lumber manufacturers have found it necessary to issue product recalls, resulting from premature deterioration of the lumber.  When composite lumber begins to deteriorate, it can unexpectedly crack and break.  Weight and pressure, such as foot traffic or high winds, speed the breaking process.  As the manufacturing process is improved, this premature deterioration issue should be resolved.