Homeowners have the option of building porches, decks, and fencing with composite boards or traditional wood boards. Traditional wood decking is made from pressure-treated lumber that resists rot, mold, and insects. The process of pressure treating wood also involves soaking the boards in a protective chemical solution. The wood boards still have to be sealed against moisture on a routine basis. Composite boards are made by pressing together ground wood scraps and recycled plastic, which is heated and pressure-treated and then coated with UV and stain-resistant coatings. Composite boards do not need to be sealed against moisture.



Part 1: Describe at least two advantages to using composite boards for construction projects. Assume that cost is not an issue.

Part 2: Describe how each resource does or does not impact the environment.