The Environmental Benefits of uPVC Decking for Holiday Homes

However, over the years, sustainability has become a focus, and the decking industry is no exception. With this, there has been a shift towards uPVC decking solutions as an eco-friendly alternative to timber.

At Vinyl Solutions, we are proud to be offering innovative ranges of decking materials that challenge the perception of what it should be, showing that it doesn’t have to be wood to be long-lasting and elegant. We know that uPVC is a more environmentally beneficial solution, and in this blog, we are going to explain why.

Durability and Longevity

uPVC is an incredibly durable material. Its characteristics make it the perfect material for an outdoor decking configuration that will be exposed to a variety of weathers.

What makes uPVC so durable is the fact that it is:

• Weather-resistant
• Moisture resistant
• UV ray resistant

This means that seasonal weather won’t impact the material in the same way it can affect timber.

The durability of uPVC leads to a long-lasting solution that you won’t need to repair or replace frequently to keep it looking its very best.

The lifespan for traditional wooden decking is often less than uPVC decking, with the former usually lasting 15-20 years while the latter can last between 20-30 years. In choosing uPVC decking, you are saving resources and materials.

Low Maintenance Requirements

Unlike wood, uPVC requires far less maintenance.

There is no need for you to stain or seal the flooring each year to protect it from the elements or maintain its look.

Additionally, cleaning needs are reduced as all you need to do is sweep it frequently, meaning water usage is lowered.

This makes uPVC decking a more convenient and cost-effective solution.

Eco-friendly Production Processes

The products used by Vinyl Solutions are sustainably made, reducing their impact on the environment.

HD Deck® Dual and HD Deck® XS composite decking options use a combination of FSC® 100% certified hardwood timber and recycled HDPE plastic.

To put that into perspective, around 3,000 plastic bottle caps or 280 plastic milk bottles are recycled per square metre of decking.

Of course, with the production of uPVC decking, we are reducing the need for timber, limiting the amount of trees cut down. This reduces deforestation and the destruction of natural habitats that our wildlife live in.

Recyclability and Disposal

While uPVC decking benefits from longevity and, therefore, needs to be replaced less, it is important to mention its recyclability.

When the time does come to replace it, the material can be easily recycled rather than sent to a landfill where it won’t decompose.

Recycling uPVC decking:

• Saves energy
• Reduces raw material extraction
• Decreases landfill waste
• Avoids the release of harmful chemicals that can occur during incineration

This can be seen as a more environmentally friendly solution than wood because the treated wood presents risks of chemical leaching and pollution as it degrades and has limited recycling options.

Aesthetic and Functional Benefits

uPVC decking solutions are available in a multitude of colourings, build styles and configurations, meaning that you can choose a decking style that will suit your long-term aesthetic goals, so you won’t feel the need to replace any decking as and when you want to change the usage or style of the space.

If you want to change the feel or atmosphere created, look to change some of the smaller accessories and lighting.

This not only saves you money but also reduces your impact on the environment as you decrease the need for raw materials and energy for production.

Reduce Environmental Impact With uPVC Decking

uPVC decking is an environmentally friendly solution to traditional decking because it is more durable, longer-lasting, easier to maintain, and can be recycled once replaced. Plus, the materials can be made from recycled plastics, meaning that the production of vinyl has a smaller impact on the environment and is more sustainable.

At Vinyl Solutions, we are proud to offer sustainable options in a variety of colours and styles so you can find the perfect look for your holiday home, caravan or lodge.

We will work with you to design a bespoke decking solution that meets your needs, collaborating with you to choose the best configuration, lighting, balustrades and fencing so that the space matches the style and aesthetic of your home.

Our team are committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Not only are the materials we use sustainable, but our practices are too.

Learn more about the environmental benefits of uPVC decking and our work processes by calling our friendly team on 01202 650 700 or completing our form below to request a callback.