What Is Artificial Wood?
- Artificial wood, also referred to as synthetic wood or composite wood, comes in many different types. Synthetic wood flooring, or laminate, uses a photographic image of wood set on fiberboard strengthened with a special resin, according to the Armstrong Flooring site. Wood composite uses wood products mixed with plastic materials, sometimes recycled plastic, to make a strong and durable wood substitute.
- Composite wood material is made by cutting recycled plastic jugs, tubs and other products into small pieces, mixing them with sawdust or other wood products and blending them with certain fillers, colorings and stabilizers. This mixed material is then molded into shapes that look like lumber and are used like lumber. Laminate wood is made by a different process, with a waterproof material on the bottom, an inner core layer strengthened with resin and the high-resolution photographed image of wood grain on top. These are molder together and coated with a clear layer that shows the wood-grain image and provides a tough, wear-resistant surface.
- Artificial wood is much easier to care for than natural wood. It cleans with mild detergents and water and does not require periodic staining and sealing. Artificial wood does not rot and does not suffer infestation by insects. It can be molded or extruded into many different shapes and sizes for different uses, such as for outdoor furniture, artificial wood flooring, decking material or porch and deck railing material. It also uses recycled materials and can be recycled again itself.
- Artificial wood such as composite wood for decking is initially more expensive than natural wood, but this cost is offset by fewer maintenance costs. Synthetic wood is heavier than ordinary wood and requires a different kind of hardware to install, according to the Garuda Decks website. Its durability has not been fully tested, as it is a new product on the market. Compared to well-constructed and well-maintained wood decks that can last up to 40 years, it may not have enough longevity to make it as cost-effective as natural wood.
