How to use composite decking?

Composite deck boards are long-lasting, look great, and are good for the environment. With the continuous production research and development of composite decking manufacturers, composite decking has come a long way in terms of appearance and technology. Want to know how to use composite decking? Let’s learn more about it next.

Considerations for using composite decking

You want a better outdoor living space and you choose to build your outdoor deck using composite decking material. Then to ensure that the outdoor space is durable and beautiful, we need to know how to use composite decking in a better way.

First, ensure that a sturdy framing structure, usually made of pressure-treated wood or steel, provides a stable foundation for composite decking. Make sure the substructure is level and adequately supported to minimize the risk of sagging or buckling.

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Next, when installing composite wood decking, leave an 8mm gap between the boards to prevent them from expanding due to temperature changes. Secure the decking boards to the deck framing using hidden fasteners and always follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines.

Clean composite decking regularly using mild soapy water to remove dirt and stains while avoiding harsh chemicals or power washing. With these measures in place, you can enjoy beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance composite decking for years to come.

Types of Composite Decking

As a man-made product, composite decking offers you more options. If you need some unique decking designs that wood decking can’t fulfill, take a look at composite decking.

Uncapped composite decking

Most composite decking boards on the market are uncapped composite decking, the most common type of composite deck board, which is relatively inexpensive and has excellent water and mold resistance. It won’t warp or crack, so you and your family can walk barefoot with confidence. The natural wood-like surface of the deck brings you the enjoyment of nature.

Capped composite decking

A polymer shell over regular composite decking produces the superior performance of capped composite decking. Which is more resistant to stains, fading, and color fading than regular composite decking. This makes it more difficult for water and bugs to enter the composite material. Of course, capped composite decking is also more expensive than uncapped composite decking.

PVC Decking

Another more durable material is PVC. This PVC is made from poly-recorded vinyl, and as such, it has excellent water and mold resistance. Compared to some of the organic alternatives, PVC decks are much better at dissipating heat, being flame retardant, and scratch resistant.

They are also lightweight, making them perfect for roof decks. The material comes with a 30-year warranty against fading and staining, as well as a lifetime warranty against defects, termites, and rot. Of course, it has a very distinct plastic texture and is not suitable for homeowners who want a natural wood grain.

Shapes of Composite decking boards

Composite decking comes in many shapes and sizes, just like wood decking. Each type has its own pros and cons that you should consider:

Solid composite decking

Solid composite wood decking is rectangular in shape and looks most like standard wood decking. To put it together, screw in the top just as you would with a plank of wood. Some types of composite material may be heavier than this, but it is very hard.

Hollow composite decking

Distinguished from solid composite decking boards, this type of composite wood decking is lighter in weight and easier to transport. Also, the hole in the center of the core facilitates deck ventilation, keeping your outdoor deck in better shape.

3D Wood Grain Surface

Whether hollow or solid composite decking, the surface texture of the deck is universal. 3D wood grain surface can bring you the enjoyment of solid wood boards so that you can enjoy nature without having to worry about the regular maintenance work of the wood deck.

Grooved Surface

A grooved surface can bring a different design experience to your deck. If you live in a coastal area or an area with a lot of rain. Then composite decking with grooves will be perfect for you. This is because when composite decking boards are exposed to rain, the grooved surface will not make it slippery. This ultimately avoids the safety hazards associated with weather effects.

Choosing the color of composite decking

Deck color is not the most important consideration, but it is the most sensitive one. Composite decking boards come in a wide range of colors for you to choose from, so you can be bold in designing your outdoor living space.

You can get the best design for your house by considering how to match the colors. When considering colors, you’ll want to ask yourself these questions:

• Does the deck connect to an interior room?
• Do you want the color of the deck to match the color of the patio?
• What is the color of the railing? Does it match the trim or general style of the house?

Preparing for Deck Construction

Building Permits

Before you begin deck construction, find out if you need a building permit. Ask your local government department or consult a professional deck contractor to find out if permits are required in your area.

Composite decking joists

Composite decking is framed differently than wood decking. The spacing between joists must be 16 inches, or 12 inches when the running boards are at a 45-degree angle.

Allow to sit for a period of time

Before you start installing composite decking boards, it is a good idea to let them sit horizontally for a week or so. This is to allow the composite decking material to acclimatize to the local temperature and humidity and to avoid expansion or contraction after installation.

To summarize

When picking composite deck boards, choose the right type of decking for your situation. If you still have some questions, please contact us.COOWIN has a professional service team to answer any of your questions.

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