Composite Decking 101: Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy

Composite decking has revolutionized the outdoor living industry, offering homeowners a durable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood decking. However, with so many options available on the market, it's essential to understand the basics before making a purchase decision. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about composite decking, from its composition and benefits to installation, maintenance, and more.

​What is Composite Decking?

Composite decking is a man-made building material composed of a blend of recycled wood fibers, plastic polymers, and additives. This combination results in a durable, weather-resistant decking material that mimics the look of natural wood without the drawbacks of traditional wood decking, such as rot, decay, and insect damage.

​Benefits of Composite Decking:

Durability: Composite decking is highly resistant to rot, decay, splintering, and insect damage, making it ideal for outdoor use in all climates.
Low Maintenance: Unlike wood decking, composite decking requires minimal maintenance, with no need for staining, sealing, or painting. Regular cleaning with soap and water is typically all that's needed to keep composite decking looking its best.
Longevity: Composite decking has a longer lifespan than traditional wood decking, with warranties ranging from 25 to 30 years or more, depending on the manufacturer.
Aesthetics: Composite decking comes in a wide range of colors, finishes, and textures, allowing homeowners to achieve the look of natural wood or explore contemporary designs to suit their style preferences.
Sustainability: Many composite decking products are made from recycled materials, reducing the demand for virgin resources and promoting environmentally friendly practices.

​Types of Composite Decking:

Capped Composite: Capped composite decking features a protective polymer shell that provides enhanced durability, fade resistance, and stain resistance.
Uncapped Composite: Uncapped composite decking does not have a protective shell, making it more susceptible to scratching, staining, and fading over time.
Solid vs. Hollow: Composite decking boards may be solid or hollow, with solid boards offering greater structural integrity and resistance to bending and flexing.

​Installation:

Composite decking can be installed using traditional woodworking tools and techniques, similar to wood decking.
It's essential to follow the manufacturer's installation guidelines and recommendations to ensure a proper and long-lasting installation.
Composite decking boards may be installed with hidden fastening systems for a clean and seamless appearance, or with visible screws or nails for added stability.

​Maintenance:

Regular cleaning is the key to maintaining the appearance and longevity of composite decking. Use a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt, debris, and stains as needed.
Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or pressure washers, as these can damage the surface of composite decking.
Periodic inspection of the deck structure and fasteners is recommended to ensure proper maintenance and structural integrity over time.

​Cost Considerations:

Composite decking typically has a higher upfront cost than traditional wood decking. However, the long-term savings in maintenance, repairs, and replacement often outweigh the initial investment.
Consider the total cost of ownership, including installation, maintenance, and lifespan, when comparing composite decking options.

​Conclusion:

Composite decking offers homeowners a durable, low-maintenance, and environmentally friendly outdoor decking solution that enhances the beauty and functionality of outdoor spaces. By understanding the composition, benefits, types, installation, maintenance, and cost considerations of composite decking, homeowners can make informed decisions when selecting the right decking material for their needs. Whether you're building a new deck or renovating an existing one, composite decking provides a versatile and long-lasting option for creating a beautiful outdoor living space to enjoy for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our composite decking options and start planning your dream outdoor oasis. Let's turn your vision into reality!