Choosing anti-corrosion wood or plastic wood for outdoor flooring cannot be generalized. Both have their own characteristics and need to be balanced based on specific needs, budget, and environment. The following is a comparative analysis of key dimensions and scenario recommendations:
???? 1、 Core performance comparison
1. Anti corrosion and anti mold properties
-Plastic wood: high density (1.2-1.3 g/cm ³), almost does not absorb water, and prevents mold from the root; And it does not contain organic nutrients. Insects and ants do not like to gnaw on it, and it has better long-term anti-corrosion properties.
-Anti corrosion wood: Although treated with chemical agents such as CCA and ACQ, the wood structure is loose (density 0.4-0.5 g/cm ³), which can easily absorb water and cause the agent to be lost. It may rot after 5-10 years.
2. Durability and stability
-Plastic wood: UV resistant, moisture resistant, with a lifespan of up to 25-50 years; But the thermal expansion and contraction are obvious, and sufficient expansion joints (recommended 6-8mm) should be left during installation, otherwise it is prone to deformation.
-Anti corrosion wood: prone to cracking and deformation (with a moisture content of up to 20% -30%), especially after drying or sun exposure; It is necessary to maintain and paint it annually, otherwise it will fade and turn gray within 2-3 years.
3. Environmental Protection and Safety
-Plastic wood: Made from recycled plastic and wood fiber, free of formaldehyde (compliant with EO standards), and can be recycled after disposal.
-Anti corrosion wood: contains preservatives such as copper and arsenic, which may cause sensitization when in contact with the skin. Special treatment is required when discarded.
???? 2、 Recommended selection by scene
-Choosing plastic wood is better:
-High humidity and rainy areas (such as water terraces and poolside);
-Laziness Party/Afraid of trouble: Refusing annual painting and maintenance;
-Heavy environmental protection: mind chemical agents coming into contact with soil or pets.
-Choosing anti-corrosion wood is better:
-Limited budget and acceptance of regular maintenance;
-Pursuing natural wooden texture (such as garden trails, balcony rest areas);
-High load-bearing requirements (such as outdoor heavy-duty table and chair placement areas).
⚠️ 3、 Guide to Avoiding Pits
-Plastic wood: Avoid low-priced and inferior products (easy to fade and become brittle), choose a weather resistant formula (containing antioxidants); When installing, it is better to have large expansion joints than small ones!
-Anti corrosion wood: Identify ACQ treatment (low toxicity) and avoid the old CCA process containing arsenic; Check the moisture content when purchasing (preferably ≤ 15%).
???? summarize
-Long term worry free selection of plastic wood: suitable for damp and insect infested areas, paying the price for "once and for all";
-Choosing anti-corrosion wood for natural feelings: limited budget+willing to invest in maintenance, enjoying the atmosphere of natural wood.
If you pursue the ultimate cost-effectiveness, you can also partition and match: anti-corrosion wood is used in the load-bearing area, and plastic wood is used in the water/gap area, balancing aesthetics and practicality.