You’re not alone if you’ve been wondering whether a fiberglass deck will look good in your home. The same thing can be said for fiberglass columns. Fiberglass columns require little or no maintenance other than occasional cleaning. This article outlines the pros and cons of fiberglass columns, including installation and cost. So, which is better? What makes fiberglass columns the better option for your home?
Pros
There are many advantages to installing fiberglass decking in your outdoor living space. First and foremost, you can enjoy a virtually maintenance-free deck. Not only does fiberglass require minimal maintenance, but it is also resistant to staining and insects. It makes fiberglass an excellent material to use for outdoor living spaces. You can also choose the color and texture of your deck to suit your tastes and your home. If you plan to install fiberglass decking in your outdoor living space, contact a professional to ensure the installation is done correctly.
In addition to being easy to maintain, fiberglass decking doesn’t require any special cleaning solutions. It can be cleaned with a damp mop, a vacuum, or mild detergent. Because fiberglass decking is non-porous, it won’t absorb dirt and grime, which can cause discoloration and premature failure. Another advantage of fiberglass decking is that it is resistant to mildew and mold, making cleaning difficult.
One of the biggest advantages of fiberglass decking is its long lifespan. Proper maintenance can last anywhere from 25 to 35 years, so it is the perfect option for outdoor living spaces. Fiberglass decking requires little to no maintenance as long as it is installed properly. A certified fiberglass installer will examine the structure every two years to ensure it is stable. While fiberglass decks are not as easy to maintain as traditional wood decks, they are remarkably durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Cost
Fiberglass decking is a type of composite decking that combines a wood-pulp blend core and a durable wrapper. It is low-maintenance but can get hot underfoot, depending on the manufacturer. Depending on its manufacturer, fiberglass decking may cost more than pressure-treated wood, but the long-term value of the deck is far greater. Its low maintenance makes it an excellent choice for outdoor applications.
Fiberglass decking installation can cost anywhere from $1,600 to $6,000, depending on the number of layers and length of the decking. For example, a 12-foot-long deck will cost around $6,000, while a 20-foot-long deck can cost more than six-thousand dollars. To avoid these costs, most homeowners should gather three estimates from three contractors. It is best to choose the most moderately priced option.
The final price will be affected by the complexity of the project, as well as its size. More complex designs will require more materials and labor. Adding on to the cost will increase the overall cost of the deck, but a platform-style deck won’t require footers or framing. A deck that is six feet wide will cost less than two-thirds of the cost of a standard-size deck. Whether you’re building a new deck or replacing an existing one, it’s always best to get an accurate price quote from a contractor before you start.
Installation
A few things should be kept in mind when installing fiberglass decking. First, you must install a flashing that will prevent water from entering the deck. Flashing should be about as long as the roof of the deck and should be bent along its length. The top edge of the flashing should rest against the siding on your house. The bottom half should extend over the fiberglass paneling roof. Lastly, it would help if you secured the top of the flashing with a caulk.
To prepare the deck for fiberglass installation:
- Clean thoroughly and mix a one-to-two percent catalyst with a stir stick.
- Once mixed, spread it over the entire surface of the fiberglass mat.
- Make sure that the filler meets all corners and avoid overfilling seams.
- After one hour, cut the two-ounce mat to fit the deck.
- Leave about two inches of overhang on the sides.
- Place the dry mats next to the deck.
Another benefit of fiberglass is its eco-friendliness. Because fiberglass is made of 100 percent recycled plastic, this material is also considered “green” by many. In addition, fiberglass decks help ease the pressure on natural resources. Some of these resources are in danger of depletion. With proper application, you can create a durable, attractive deck that will improve the appearance of your home while adding resale value. But be sure to use a good quality decking contractor to ensure it’s done correctly.
