Composite Decking 101: The Best of Everything You Need to Know

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composite decking

What is Composite Decking?

Composite decking is a type of pressure-treated wood that is lightweight, cost-effective, and can last for decades. It’s one of the most common outdoor building materials you’ll find in any home improvement store.

Composite decking is made from several different materials including recycled plastic and wood fibers, PVC, and resins. Composite decking is often confused with “pressure-treated plywood” or other composite materials like fiberglass.

However, these are all different types of exterior lumber that have their own pros and cons. This article will explain everything you need to know about composite decking and whether it’s the right choice for your outdoor space.

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Composite decking is a manmade deck material made from several different materials like recycled plastic and wood fibers, PVC, and resins. It’s often used in outdoor spaces like decks, patios, pool decks, and more. It comes in many different colors, textures, and even recycled materials, so you can find the perfect look for your outdoor space.

Composite decking is often confused with “pressure-treated plywood” or other composite materials like fiberglass. However, these are all different types of exterior lumber that have their own pros and cons. This article will explain everything you need to know about composite decking and whether it’s the right choice for your outdoor space.

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Composite decking is actually a combination of two materials: polyethylene and a strong material like fiberglass, carbon fiber or graphite. Depending on the type you choose, the components will be combined in different ways and with different ratios.

Polyethylene is the top layer that protects the surface from scratches and UV damage, while the other material forms the core to provide strength and durability. The composite material is then bonded with a tracking compound that holds the layers together.

The composite decking options available today are very different from what they were even a few years ago. Today’s composite decking offers a wide array of colors and designs that can make your deck look just as good as a natural wood deck.

When it comes to outdoor living spaces, nothing is more sought-after than a deck. A deck can be the perfect place for outdoor relaxation, and entertaining and even provide a new perspective on your property. There’s just one thing standing in your way of realizing your outdoor decking dreams…the cost.

If you’re an avid DIYer and are looking for an affordable yet high-quality deck material, then you’ll likely want to consider composite decking. When it comes to all things composite decking, there are many pros and cons that you’ll need to know before making the final decision. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about composite decking!

Composite decking is a type of synthetic decking material that can be installed on any type of surface (even concrete!). This two-part material consists of a top layer of decorative wood grain and a fibrous layer made from recycled materials like plastic and wood chips.

Composite decking is extremely durable and comes in a variety of colors, styles and shapes. It is also designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including UV rays, rain and even snow. The main benefits of composite decking include:

Lightweight: Composite decking is one of the lightest materials out there. This means you won’t have to hire extra people to help with the installation.

Weather-Resistant: Composite decking is completely weatherproof. It will not rot, crack, splinter or fade like traditional wood.

Easy to Clean: You can easily clean composite decking with a garden hose. In fact, it’s recommended that you use a pressure washer at least once a year to clean off any dirt and grime.

Why is Composite Decking so Popular?

Let’s start with cost. For most homeowners, the biggest benefit of composite decking is the cost. Compared to most other decking materials

— like cedar, redwood, pressure-treated wood and hardwood

— composite decking is much less expensive. That’s because composite decking is made from recycled materials and is manufactured in large plants in a process that uses significantly less energy than each of those other materials.

And when you consider that most composite manufacturers offer a warranty of 20 or 25 years, you can see that it also lasts much longer than traditional lumber. Of course, cost isn’t everything. Let’s take a look at some other benefits of composite decking to see why it’s become so popular.

Pros of Composite Decking

As we’ve outlined above, composite decking offers a lot of benefits. But let’s take a closer look at some of the top pros of composite decking.

  • Easy Installation – Composite decking is extremely easy to install. You can do it yourself or hire a contractor to put it in for you. If you decide to DIY, you should be able to finish the project within a weekend.
  • Low Maintenance – Composite decking is very low maintenance. You won’t have to stain or seal your deck, which saves time and money.
  • Durable – Composite decking is extremely durable. It will last for decades to come and will most likely outlast the lifespan of your home.
  • Weather-Resistant – Composite decking is completely weatherproof. It will not rot, crack, splinter or fade like traditional wood.
  • Hypoallergenic – If you or anyone in your family suffers from allergies or asthma, then you’re going to love composite decking. This synthetic material is hypoallergenic, so it won’t cause any allergic reactions.
  • Safe for Children and Pets – Kids and pets can play on a composite deck without having to worry about splinters or falling through.

Cons of Composite Decking

Even though composite decking has a lot of great benefits, there are a few cons you should be aware of as well.

  • Slippery Surface – One of the biggest cons of composite decking is that it’s a very slippery surface. If it’s raining outside and there’s a lot of moisture, your deck could become very slippery. Be sure to place mats or shoes in high-traffic areas to prevent any serious injuries.
  • Longer Installation Time – Composite decking is installed one layer at a time. This means that installation times can be up to double the amount for traditional decking.

Why is Composite Decking so Affordable?

We know that composite decking is extremely affordable, but why? There are a few reasons, but the major one has to do with the fact that composite decking is designed to last decades longer than traditional wood.

You see, composite decking is made from recycled materials, which brings down the cost of production. If one composite decking product ends up being faulty, the company can simply throw it away, and make a new batch using the same recycled materials. Because of this, one composite decking installation can last more than 20 years!

Compare that to traditional wood, where you’d have to replace the boards at least once every few years due to rotting or splitting.

How to Install Composite Decking?

The installation process for composite decking varies according to the manufacturer. Therefore, it’s important to follow the instructions provided by the company that manufactured your decking materials. However, in general, you can expect the installation process to be much easier than that of traditional wood.

First, you’ll need to find a level surface where you’d like to install the decking. If you’re installing the decking on top of another roof, make sure it’s structurally sound and doesn’t need replacing. Once you’ve found the perfect surface, you can begin the installation process.

Second, you’ll need to install the “stringers” – which are long, straight pieces of wood that will support the decking. You’ll then install the “blocking” – which is smaller pieces of wood that will be placed between the stringer boards.

Next, you’ll need to install the “decking spacers” – which are smaller pieces of wood that will help space out the boards. Finally, you’ll install the decking boards themselves.

Installing a new deck is an investment in your home and its appearance for years to come. The most important elements of any deck are the deck surface and the guard rails, as these are what your friends, family, and neighbors will see first. Restaining a weathered or rotten old deck is not as challenging or expensive as building a new one.

Building a new composite wood deck, however, involves some construction skills and experience with carpentry tools. If you have these skills, building a new composite-wood deck can be rewarding. If you’re not ready to tackle this project yourself but want to put in a composite-wood deck at your home in St Augustine, hire professionals with experience and training in installing composite-wood decks.

Check for Code Violations

Before you start building, check the local building codes to make sure you’re not violating any zoning regulations. Also, check to make sure your property line is clearly marked. If your deck is too close to the property line, it might encroach on your neighbor’s property.

If your property is in an area with high water tables, a composite-wood deck is a good choice, as it’s not as susceptible to rot and insect damage as a wooden deck. However, if your property is in an area with heavy rainfall, check with your local building department for restrictions on the placement of a composite wood deck.

Materials and Tools

Before you start building, make a materials list and inventory of all the tools you’ll need. You’ll need a framing square, a

level, and a tape measure for this project. Other tools include a hammer, saws (a miter saw, circular saw, and a jigsaw), nail and screw guns, a utility knife, a pry bar, a nail set, and a rake.

You’ll need various types of framing lumber, decking boards, screws, nails, connectors, and fasteners to build the deck. You’ll also need steel posts and connectors, joist hangers, and a wiring diagram to install an electrical outlet.

Step 1: Lay the Grounding Wire

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) breaker is recommended for the electrical outlet for the deck and for the water spigot. If you’re building a new home, this is already installed in the electrical panel and connected to the water inlet. If your property is a resale, you’ll need to have an electrician install this feature before you build your deck.

Step 2: Install the Framing

The next step is to frame the structure of the deck. You can do this by using pressure-treated framing lumber or composite-wood framing lumber. Once you’ve cut all the framing lumber to length, attach the bottom framing members to the concrete pad.

If your deck is attached to a house, you can use the existing house framing to support the deck framing. Otherwise, install the rest of the framing members.

Step 3: Install the Surface Boards

The last step before attaching the decking boards is to install the wrapping boards. The wrapping boards are the pieces that go between the posts. Using 2x4s, cut the boards and then attach the wrapping boards to the posts with deck screws.

Once the wrapping boards are in place, install the decking boards. You can use a variety of decking boards, such as composite decking boards, cedar boards, or pressure-treated boards. Once all the decking boards are in place, apply an anti-slip coating to the boards to prevent them from becoming too slippery in rainy or snowy weather.

Step 4: Install the Wrapping Board and Rails

Now it’s time to install the wrapping board and rails. The wrapping board is the board that the railing is attached to. For the wrapping boards, use 2×6 or 2×8 lumber. The rails are attached to the wrapping boards. Once you’ve finished these last few steps, you can stain or seal your deck. The type of finish you use will depend on the type of wood used in your deck.

Hiring a Professional for Composite Decking

Do you want to give your home an upgrade with a new look that also improves its value and usability? Then decking may be the right choice for you. A composite deck is a good investment, as it not only adds significant value to your home but also increases its livability by making it more accessible and user-friendly. We’ll introduce you to the many benefits of having a new deck in this article, along with information on what type of deck is best suited to your home and how much it may cost. Read on and discover everything you need to know about hiring professional services for composite deck installation.

Why is composite decking a good investment?

A composite deck is a good investment because it has a high resale value and is long-lasting. It also requires less maintenance than a wooden deck does, which makes it a good option if you have a busy lifestyle. Because the weather won’t damage the surface of a composite deck, it is a good choice for outdoor spaces that are subject to harsh weather conditions. It is also low-maintenance, making it an ideal investment for people who don’t have a lot of time to keep their decks clean.

Types of decks you can install

If you are planning to install a new deck, you have many different options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular types of decks you can install.

  • Cedar decks – Cedar is one of the most popular types of wood used for decks, as it is attractive and durable, making it a great choice for decking. It is suitable for all types of environments, including those with extreme weather conditions, and is easy to maintain.
  • Pressure-treated decks – Pressure-treated decking is made from wood that has been treated with chemicals to prevent rot and insect damage. This type of decking is suitable for all environments and is highly durable, making it a great choice for decks that get a lot of use.
  • Composite decks – Composite decks are an excellent choice for anyone who wants a deck that is both attractive and incredibly durable. This type of decking is weather-resistant and low-maintenance, making it suitable for all environments.
  • Wood decks – Wood decks are attractive and offer versatility and flexibility in design. This type of decking is suitable for all environments, but it needs more frequent maintenance than composite decking does.

Discover more about hiring a professional for installation

If you choose to hire a professional for deck installation, it is important to choose the right contractor. Here are some tips for finding the best contractor for your composite deck installation.

Find out what types of decks the contractor installs: You want to hire a contractor who specializes in installing composite decks. This type of contractor has experience installing this type of decking, so you can rest assured that your deck will be installed correctly.

Ask for the contractor’s license and insurance information: Make sure that the contractor is licensed and insured before hiring them, as this will give you extra peace of mind during the installation process.

Ask for references: Make sure to ask the contractor for references, and contact their previous clients to find out how their experience with the contractor went.

Compare contractor prices: Make sure to compare contractor prices before making your final decision. This will give you an idea of how much the installation process will cost.

Wood vs. Composite: Which is the Best Option?

If you’re still not sure which type of decking material is right for you, here are a few questions to help you decide.

Are you on a budget? – If money is a big issue, composite decking is probably your best option. It’s considerably less expensive than traditional decking materials.

Are you on the lookout for eco-friendly options? – If you’re looking for a decking material that’s good for the environment, many composite decking materials are a solid choice. Cedar and redwood are also eco-friendly decking materials, but they’re much more expensive.

Do you have low-traffic areas? – If you have decking that won’t get a lot of daily use, composite is probably your best option. As we mentioned, it’s a very fragile material that’s not well-suited to high-traffic areas.

Are you handy? – If you have time, know-how, and a few extra bucks to save, traditional decking materials are a great option. They’re more durable, easier to work with, and can be replaced as needed.

Ultimately, your decision will come down to your budget and your needs. If you’re on a tight budget, composite decking is likely your best option. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, the same holds true.

If you have low-traffic areas and are handy, traditional decking materials are a great option. And if you’re looking for a high-quality, long-lasting option, hardwood is an excellent choice.

Things to consider before hiring a contractor

While there are many benefits to hiring a contractor to install your deck, it is important to keep a few things in mind before making your final decision. Keep these tips in mind as you search for a contractor to hire.

– Find a contractor that has experience installing composite decks – There are many different types of decks on the market, and installing each type requires different skills and expertise. Make sure that your contractor has experience with composite decking before hiring them for the job.

– Check the contractor’s references – Asking for references is an important part of the contractor selection process, so make sure to check them before hiring anyone.

– Compare contractor prices – As we mentioned above, it is important to compare contractor prices before making your decision.

Having a new deck installed is a great home improvement project, as it will improve both the aesthetics and usability of your property. In addition to increasing the value of your home, installing a deck also creates a beautiful outdoor space that you and your family will enjoy using year-round.

Before hiring a contractor to install your deck, make sure that they specialize in installing composite decks. It is also important to ask for the contractor’s license and insurance information, check their references and compare contractor prices before making your decision.

Conclusion

A composite deck is a type of decking that’s made of a combination of materials, such as wood, polyethylene, asphalt, and other synthetic materials. It is ideal for high-traffic areas because it resists rotting, splintering, and warping. Its durability and easy maintenance make it a great choice for any type of deck, including those that are exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Overall, composite decking is a great outdoor building material that is lightweight, low maintenance, and affordable. It also comes in many different styles, textures, and colors, so you’re sure to find the perfect option for your outdoor space.

Installing a new deck is an investment in your home and its appearance for years to come. The most important elements of any deck are the deck surface and the guard rails, as these are what your friends, family, and neighbors will see first. Re-staining a weathered or rotten old deck is not as challenging or expensive as building a new one.

Now that you know everything you need to know about composite decking, it’s time to make the decision. If you’re hoping to increase your outdoor living space and value, but want to do so on a budget, then composite decking is the perfect solution.

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