Over the past few years, composite decking has gained its own popularity for some homeowners, simply because they are able to offer some advantageous features than the traditional wood decking. When you want to improve the overall look (and value) of the house, you must think about everything – and the details on the indoor as well as the outdoor. Many homeowners want to have their own deck, allowing them to enjoy the outdoor setting as conveniently as possible. But then again, they need to think about the proper materials and how to do it right.
What Is Composite Decking?
What is a composite deck, anyway? And how is composite decking different from wood decking? You see, composite is the term used when the material is made from a mix of several things. When you combine these different materials together, you basically create a new stuff that has new characteristics. When we are talking about composite timber, it’s commonly made from sawdust (or wood fibers), plastic, and also some binding agents. As a result, the composite timber is commonly denser, stronger, and heavier than the original wood material.
In the old days, timber was the only option for constructing a deck. But as time progresses and technology has advanced, things have started to change, especially within the very beginning of the 1990s. Manufacturers started to experience the lack of virgin timber supply, forcing them to start a new innovation with wood-plastic mix. These days, you can see different homeowners having different decks. The composite decking exists quite well with the traditional wood decking.
Some of the common features of composite materials are:
- It doesn’t crack or split easily. In fact, such a material isn’t likely to experience such a thing
- It’s a manufactured product that has been engineered and designed with sophisticated technology. That’s why it’s resistant to fading and stain.
- It’s easy to maintain. The maintenance and care requirements are basically lower, and yet, you can still expect it to look good and flawless.
Composite vs Wood Materials
So, how is composite decking different from wood? Well, most homeowners still prefer the wood because of its long existence. It somehow creates an affordable, familiar, and homey sensation. Not to mention that it’s readily available and you won’t have a hard time finding it easily. But then again, wood is prone to rot, high maintenance, and splinter.
On the other hand, composite wood isn’t only easy to maintain, but it’s also stronger and more solid. But then again, not everyone likes composite wood because they feel that it’s ‘fake’. They feel that it’s not purely wood, and they aren’t happy with it.
The Benefits
It’s quite understandable when you choose composite material for your solid composite decking. After all, such a material does have its own perks.
- It’s easy to install. The material is constructed with a groove system. Thanks to it, the planks can fit together effortlessly. It helps cut off the installation time. Plus, it delivers a clean and uniformed look.
- It’s safe. Pets can safely walk on the deck because they won’t have to worry about the splinter. You don’t have to be afraid of being barefoot altogether. Some of the modern products even have anti-slip features.
- It’s aesthetically and visually pleasing. With an appearance that looks similar to the real wood, you can expect good-looking decks. And the visual won’t have to be fake either.
- It’s eco-friendly. Many of today’s products are made from recycled materials. It means that you won’t have to worry about the trees being cut down or whatsoever.
The Downsides
Despite the benefits, you need to be aware of some of the disadvantages of composite decking. Again, for those real wood purists, this kind of material doesn’t deliver ‘real or pure’ wooden effect. Moreover, such a material is costlier than the regular wood. But if you understand the long term benefits, having a composite decking is more profitable.
Some Handy Tips
If you are familiar with wood decking, installing the composite type isn’t completely different or difficult. Some of the general things about composite deck installation are:
- If you lay the deck within a straight pattern, you can use the similar (and standard) joist spacing as wood. It means the 16 inches on the center.
- You can use a jigsaw or miter saw to cut the composite deck. These tools are similar to those used for installing wood decking.
- You can consider using the top-down fastener to install the composite deck.
Have the Right Tools
Make sure that you have the proper tools for installing the composite deck. If you have worked with wood decking, then you have no issue. You need to have at least safety glasses, mallet or hammer, string line, and drill. You can purchase them, if you have the business. Or feel free to rent them if you only need it momentarily.
Sturdy Substructure
Having a sturdy and solid substructure is super important. You don’t want it to experience structure integrity issues. You can either use the already existing substructure or build a new one. Unless your substructure is quite new or only several years old, it’s advisable that you build a brand new platform for safety reasons.
When you have finally set your mind up to build a new substructure, you need to think about these:
- Make sure that the deck joist spacing is proper and correct. The joists must be level.
- Use the right footings (preferably the frost proof ones) to set the posts. This is especially important when you live in a four season climate or cold one.
- Attach the ledger board with the right screws.
However, if you decide to use the already existing substructure, make sure that it’s still solid and within a very good condition. You can think about having a resurfacing job where you replace the deck boards only. Healthy substructure has these signs:
- It’s free of rot, mildew, and mold.
- It has secured connected members with the right fasteners.
- It has proper blocking and joist spacing.
Since it’s a matter of security and protection, you don’t want to compromise your substructure with the sake of saving money. Make sure that you put your safety (as well as your family’s) over anything.
In the end, you have the option to choose any material you want for your deck. But with composite decking, not only you can enjoy aesthetic results, but you won’t have to worry about the care although you should be ready with extra spending.