Things to Consider When Choosing Composite Decking for Your Home

composite decking

There are many things to consider when choosing composite decking for your home. Besides the obvious aesthetics, you also want to look at its durability and the warranty policy.

The two most popular types of composite decking are capped and uncapped. Capped decking has a protective polyethylene sleeve on 1 or all 4 sides of the board.

Durability

Unlike traditional wooden boards, composite is a combination of wood powder and hard-setting plastics that can last up to 30 years or more with minimal maintenance. It can withstand various weather conditions and is highly resistant to rotting, insect infestation and termite colonies.

Some homeowners choose to use capped composite decking as cladding around their outdoor swimming pools, patios or garden areas. It can also be used for a variety of other outdoor projects such as walkways, steps or railings. Its slip-resistant properties make it an ideal choice for people who don’t want to trip on grass or wet areas.

A composite deck can also be used as an inconspicuous outdoor storage area for tools, gardening equipment or even children’s toys. It comes in several colors that can match a garden layout, and it is possible to construct a shed from composite board that will look stylish in a backyard setting. Just be aware that darker composite shades may fade over time due to sun exposure.

Aesthetics

Composite decking is a modern alternative to natural wood, created with a blend of wood fibers, plastics and different binding agents. This combination allows for a wide range of color options, allowing homeowners to find the perfect match for their home and aesthetic preferences.

When choosing a composite color, it’s important to consider your home’s architectural design and other exterior colors. This is crucial in preserving and maintaining aesthetic harmony and balance. Choosing the wrong composite color could result in a look that detracts from your home’s overall design aesthetic.

Besides being customizable in terms of color, composite decking is also available in various textures and styles. Some manufacturers, like TimberTech, offer a variety of rustic choices for those who prefer a more traditional wood-like aesthetic. This option allows you to choose a more natural look without having to worry about the maintenance associated with rot or splinters. Also, choosing a grooved or ungrooved board is another way to customize your composite decking’s appearance. Grooved boards more closely resemble real wood and are easier to install using hidden fasteners.

Maintenance

You can’t avoid surface dirt no matter what type of decking you have, but you can keep it to a minimum with regular sweeping and occasional use of soapy water. Sweeping also helps prevent the buildup of dust and bird poop. If the deck gets stained, cleaning it promptly and addressing the source of the stain are key.

Some people like to use sand or rock salt on their composite decks. However, if not rinsed off properly these items can corrode and stain the boards. If your deck is located in a high-traffic area, placing door mats or rugs may help minimize the amount of dirt that is tracked on to the board surface. Never drag objects over a composite deck to avoid scratches and gouges.

Oil and grease spills can stain a composite deck, but if you clean them promptly they should not be permanent. Make sure to blot the affected area rather than rub, and don’t use a power washer to clean it.

Installation

A contractor can help you ensure that your composite deck meets local codes and complies with building regulations. A professional can also procure better prices on products and offer more design flourishes.

Modern composite boards are treated with ultraviolet inhibitors and borate preservatives to resist fading, moisture and mold (moisture and mold were the Achilles heel of first-generation Trex). They may be solid all the way through or manufactured with hollow cores that make them lighter and save on materials. They may be milled with tongues and grooves for fastening to deck joists or made to attach with hidden fasteners.

Composite decking can be used in creative ways to create a personalized and unique style. Contrasting board colours can be used for a contrast finish, steps and edges can be highlighted with screening and deck layouts can be designed in a variety of ways to suit personal styles. Composite fascias can also be used to cover the exposed frame ends and give a smooth finish to the installation.



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