Composite Building Materials: Innovation, Advantages, and Practical Considerations
Composite building products have emerged as transformative materials in the construction industry. Amongst them is Wood Plastic Composite (WPC), a blend of waste wood, recycled plastics and processing aids. This innovative combination is offering a sustainable alternative for outdoor flooring and cladding applications.
Comparison of WPC and Naxan
A Brief History
Despite being first developed by Italian company Covema, WPC’s history really took off in the early 1990s when companies, especially in the United States, started using recycled plastics and waste wood fibres in the manufacturing of building materials. This marked a significant departure from traditional wood products, renowned for their susceptibility to decay and weathering. The adoption of WPC products was boosted by showcasing its enhanced longevity and reduced maintenance needs compared to timber.
Advantages of Wood Plastic Composite
WPC has numerous advantages such as its durability. Unlike natural wood, which is prone to warping, splintering, and fading, WPC can maintain its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal for several years, if properly taken care of. It requires minimal upkeep, eliminating the necessity for regular staining or sealing associated with conventional wood. WPC is environmentally friendly, utilising recycled materials and diminishing environmental impact compared to pure lumber.
Disadvantages of Wood Plastic Composite
Although, Wood Plastic Composite has garnered attention as a newer option in construction materials, prospective buyers should weigh several considerations before opting for WPC. Firstly, WPC can become uncomfortably hot in direct sunlight during summer months, making it less ideal for barefoot walking. Additionally, while WPC is resilient, repairs can be challenging due to its composite inner core and out polymer-capped shell.
Customisation options in terms of colours for WPC are also unavailable or very limited. Unlike natural wood or Naxan, which can be cut and shaped on-site for custom designs, WPC is generally prefabricated to standard dimensions, limiting design flexibility post-installation. This aspect may hamper those seeking unique architectural expressions or tailored solutions.
Naxan: a Breakthrough Better than WPC
Naxan products are the leading natural alternative to timber, offering comparable aesthetics, feel, and performance without the drawbacks of timber or wood-plastic composites.
Similar to timber, Naxan products can be sanded, stained, sealed, and repaired as needed. They can be finished with either brush application or water-based coloured stains. The natural fibre used in Naxan provides excellent insulation, keeping surfaces cooler than other composite materials, which is especially beneficial for decking applications. Additionally, Naxan products are designed to withstand Australia's challenging weather conditions, including exposure to salt and chlorine water.
Naxan decking and cladding have a BAL-40 fire rating for bushfire-prone areas, showcasing their exceptional durability, strength, stability.
