Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], June 25: The gate to your property is as much about aesthetics, style, and long-term value as about security. Gates are made of natural wood, metal, or composite materials such as WPC (wood-plastic composite). Several factors need to be considered while choosing the material, the most important being cost.
WPC is a revolutionary composite material that is considered best suited for outdoor structures across the world. WPC planks Material exhibit the exceptional aesthetics of natural wood and an inherent capacity to endure harsh weathering in exterior applications. They are waterproof, UV resistant, and heat resistant, and do not fade under the sun, rot, or crack easily. WPC planks are extremely durable because of their inherent characteristics and therefore ideally suited for gates.
Cost Effectiveness
Initial costs, durability, and maintenance are major factors that contribute to the cost-effectiveness of any product. Let us see how WPC fares against traditional materials such as wood and metal.
Initial costs
WPC gate planks are comparatively more expensive initially than untreated wood or basic metals. The cost of WPC planks depends on the quality and brand of the material used.
Untreated or minimally treated wood is less expensive although high-quality premium wood is more expensive.
When it comes to metals, while basic steel or iron gates come at affordable rates, wrought iron and other decorative metals are more expensive.
Durability
WPC gate planks possess excellent durability. They do not succumb to warping, cracking, and fading under extreme weather conditions, and are resistant to termites and rot. They have an exceptionally long lifespan, often outlasting traditional wood materials.
The durability of wood planks varies greatly depending on the type of material used and the treatment it undergoes. Untreated or poorly treated wood is easily susceptible to damage under harsh weather conditions.
Metal gates are prone to rust and corrosion, and you may have to replace them frequently if they are not well maintained.
Maintenance
WPC gates are built to last long. As they are resistant to damage due to the elements, you do not have to spend a fortune on maintaining your WPC gate. Periodic cleaning with soap and water and wiping with soft cloth, along with regular inspection for any damage should keep your gate sturdy and looking good for years to come.
On the other hand, wooden gates are more susceptible to damage due to external weather conditions. You have to periodically inspect them for cracks, warping, and swelling, and treat them appropriately for the same. The cost you incur towards painting, sanding, staining, and potential repairs can contribute significantly to the upkeep of your gate over the years.
Although metal gates are quite durable, they are susceptible to rust and corrosion, particularly in coastal areas, necessitating regular painting to prevent rust and subsequent structural damage.
Versa Planks
Versa, the leading WPC brand, offers WPC planks that are the best choice for gates. The planks possess high strength, durability, and impact resistance. Their wide range of colors, widths, and surface finishes provides excellent flexibility to create traditional or contemporary designs to match your building style and accommodate your aesthetic requirements.
Source: https://versaplank.in/cost-effectiveness-wpc-planks-gates-vs-traditional-materials-gates/