Composite deck boards are manmade creations that blend multiple materials together to gain new properties.
Composite deck boards are manmade creations that blend multiple materials together to gain new properties. Common composite components include wood fibers, minerals, bonding agents, and plastics. Over the last few decades composite deck boards have continued to improve in their manufacturing creating new combinations that demand less upkeep, boast stylish colors, and come with built-in technological features.
According to Grand View Research composite decking popularity is expected to increase at 6% or above each year through 2033. The growing popularity of composite decking can be attributed to its customizable stunning looks and lower maintenance requirements compared to traditional wood decking. The inclusion of plastic in the mix results in a products that are free from splinters.
A composite deck board begins with what's on the inside. Typically homeowners have two main choices to make: wood or wood-free composites.
Wood thermal composites are a popular choice in the decking industry but a risky one for your investment. Wood fiber material is an easy access point for mild, mildew, and rot to form in your deck board.
Material costs money to produce, ship, and store. To cut costs many manufacturers remove sections of the deck board in a process called "fluting". There are many different styles of composite deck board. Talk to your builder about their choice of model and design.
In the decking industry capping is the material used to coat the exterior of the deck board. This is how your deck board is (or isn't) protected from the risks of moisture. The strength of the capping material determines things such as: the longevity of your deck board, scratch resistance, UV protection, and more. Be sure to ask your deck builder about their deck board capping technology.
Green Shield has deck boards you can't find anywhere else!
Yes, Green Shield decks are environmentally friendly. Green Shield utilizes a proprietary rice hull composite engineered from 95% recycled materials. While traditional composite boards rely on wood-fillers that eventually rot, Green Shield selects rice hulls for their natural moisture resistance and environmental benefits. By prioritizing VOC-free construction, our team ensures a premier outdoor living space that is as safe for the homeowner as it is durable against the elements. Choosing Green Shield means investing in a sustainable build that never compromises on structural integrity.
That’s right—a Green Shield deck never requires staining. High-performance, fully capped EPL resin boards are reliably engineered to last a lifetime without the need for sealing or painting. This premier, moisture-resistant technology ensures a low-maintenance outdoor space that maintains its high-quality finish through every season.
Yes! Green Shield engineers America’s #1 pet-friendly decks, prioritizing safety for every family member. High-performance rice hull composite features fully capped, scratch-resistant technology that remains slip-resistant and VOC-free. With heat-blocking innovation and mold resistance, these reliably engineered decks provide a premier, lifetime warrantied space for pets and homeowners alike.
Yup! You’ll see Green Shield crews working year round. Even on snowy days our expert deck craftsmen are laying rice hull composite deck boards in Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. Building a deck in winter is a great way to prepare your home for spring and never have to stain again.
