What materials are commonly used in the construction of boardwalks? What are their respective advantages and disadvantages?

Material selection for boardwalks must comprehensively consider factors such as environmental adaptability, durability, maintenance cost, aesthetics, and ecological impact. Below is a comparative analysis of several mainstream materials:

1. WPC Flooring (Recommended)

• Slip & Wear Resistant: Wood-textured surface with high friction coefficient, reducing slippage even in rain.

• Exceptional Weather Resistance: UV-resistant, moisture-proof, and rot-proof, resisting cracking/deformation for long-term outdoor use.

• Low Maintenance: No painting or anti-corrosion treatment needed; easy to clean, with a service life of 10+ years.

• Eco-Friendly & Aesthetic: Strong wood texture, diverse colors, and customizable patterns.

• Easy Installation: Lay the keel with snap-fit installation for fast construction.

• Slight thermal expansion in extreme heat (requires leaving expansion joints).

2. Natural Wood

• Naturally beautiful, highly compatible with ecological environments.

• Flexible construction, suitable for complex terrains.

• Comfortable foot feel (elasticity, slip resistance).

• Prone to rotting and insect infestation (requires regular anti-corrosion treatment).

• Easily deformed or cracked in humid environments.

• High maintenance cost (needs protective coating every 3–5 years).

3. Anti-Corrosion Wood

• Natural wood grain with comfortable foot feel, suit for nature-oriented landscape design.

• Requires regular anti-corrosion painting; prone to rotting and cracking without maintenance (high upkeep costs).

• Moderate slip resistance (slippery when wet), prone to fading and deformation over time.

4. Concrete/Stone

• Extremely durable with a lifespan of decades (30+ years).

• Fire-resistant and compression-resistant, suitable for high-traffic areas.

• Heavy weight, difficult construction.

• Cold and slippery in winter (requires anti-slip treatment).

• Poor ecological affinity.

5. Steel Structure

• High strength, suitable for large-span boardwalks.

• Strong modern aesthetic with high design flexibility.

• Moisture and corrosion resistant (with surface treatment).

• High cost, requires regular anti-rust maintenance.

• Surface overheats in summer and feels cold in winter.

Key Considerations for Material Selection

• Budget: Natural wood has low initial costs but high maintenance expenses; WPC/concrete has higher upfront investment but saves money long-term.

• Lifespan: Prioritize WPC or concrete (10+ years) in humid areas.

• Aesthetics: WPC or reconstituted bamboo fits natural landscapes; concrete/steel suits modern styles.