What is Composite Decking?
A deck is an ideal space for enjoying life in harmony with nature. It is very important to choose the right deck materials. They affect how the area looks and works, how long it lasts, and how much it costs to keep it clean. Composite wood decking is a popular choice because it doesn’t need much care.
Composite decking looks like wood, but it has the benefits of not rotting, fading, or being damaged by insects. It looks good and is useful in many situations. This guide goes over everything you need to know about composite decking.
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Table of Contents
Overview of Composite Decking
Composite decking represents an innovative engineered material. The boards are made by mixing reclaimed plastic and wood in a certain ratio, then heating and extruding the mix to make boards. It’s not wood or plastic by itself; instead, it has the natural look of wood and the long-lasting qualities of plastic.
Composite decks have been in development for more than thirty years. These days, it comes in a lot of different types and is used in homes, businesses, and public places.
Material Composition of Composite Decking
The great performance of composite wood decking comes from its raw materials, with each part having a unique and important role.
- Wood Fiber: While making the material stiffer and stronger, wood fiber gives the look and feel of real wood.
- Plastic Components: Plastic delivers waterproofing and moisture resistance, imparting flexibility and impact resistance. It also prevents insect infestation and fungal decay. Recycled plastic in composite decking is central to its eco-friendly attributes.
- Other Additives: Functional additives are incorporated during production to enhance overall performance. For instance, UV stabilizers prevent fading and weathering caused by sunlight exposure.
Manufacturing Process of Composite Decking
Composite deck boards are made in a precise industrial process. It primarily involves the following steps:
- Raw Material Mixing and Proportioning: Following the formula ratio, wood fibers, plastic pellets, and other ingredients are put into a mixer to make sure the materials are mixed together evenly.
- Extrusion Molding: The mixed ingredients are put into an extruder, where they are melted at high temperatures and pressures. The molten material is extruded through a die.
- Surface Treatment: Embossing technology is used to create wood grain or other textures on the sheet surface. Some products undergo surface coating to enhance weather resistance.
Analysis of Composite Deck Advantages
Composite decking has quickly become popular in just a few decades because it has so many more benefits than regular wood.
Low Maintenance Requirements
This is one of the chosen reasons to use composite deck materials, and it is also the most basic way that it is different from standard wood. Natural wood faces multiple challenges in outdoor environments. Homeowners may need to clean, sand, or stain it at least once annually. Sealer reapplication is required every 2-3 years. Additionally, homeowners must continually inspect and address issues like mildew spots and cracks. Long-term maintenance costs can exceed the initial installation expense.
In contrast, composite decking requires surprisingly minimal upkeep. Routine maintenance involves only occasional sweeping or rinsing with water. It gets rid of the need for cleaning, staining, painting, sealing, and other pest and mildew treatments. Because of this, composite decking homeowners don’t have to spend as much time or money on upkeep over the years.
Exceptional Durability
The durability of composite decking is its core advantage, delivering outstanding performance. Its plastic components completely block moisture penetration. It resists decay, mold, and warping. Consequently, it can withstand long-term use in high-humidity environments. Properly installed composite decks last 25-30 years, 2-3 times longer than pressure-treated wood. Its durability manifests in the following aspects:
- Insect and Termite Resistance: The plastic surface of composite decking holds no appeal for insects. It requires no chemical pest treatments, making it safer and more environmentally friendly. This makes it particularly suitable for termite-prone areas.
- Weather Resistance: Composite deck boards typically incorporate UV stabilizers to delay fading. Capped composite decking provides an additional protective layer. Its color changes uniformly without mottled fading. High-quality composite decking withstands extreme temperatures from -40°C to 60°C.
- Superior Performance: Composite decking boasts high flexural strength and strong load-bearing capacity. It resists impact and is less prone to cracking.
Environmental Sustainability
As environmental awareness grows, the eco-friendly advantages of composite decking become increasingly evident. Composite decking is made from recycled plastics and wood fibers. It lowers trash and saves new wood. Its production also consumes less energy compared to materials like aluminum. Furthermore, composite decking requires no chemical maintenance products like stains during long-term use. Its extended lifespan reduces replacement frequency, minimizing environmental impact.
Aesthetic Appeal and Design Flexibility
Modern composite wood decking has reached new heights in aesthetic expression. It offers the following advantages in visual appeal:
- Rich Color Selection: Composite decking has a lot more color options than real wood. Some brands even offer custom color services.
- Realistic Texture: Composite deck materials use embossing technology to make them look and feel like real wood. It can even mimic wood’s natural color variations and grain patterns. Additionally, diverse surface finishes enable matte, semi-gloss, and other effects.
- Design Freedom: Composite decking comes in various specifications and styles. Some products support thermal bending. Manufacturers typically offer matching railings, stairs, and decorative components. You can select the most suitable design based on personal preference.
Learn More: Summer Composite Decking Ideas Improve Your Outdoor Space
Safety and Comfort
Deck safety and comfort directly impact the user experience. Composite wood decking excels in these areas, primarily through:
- Slip-Resistant Surface: Textured designs provide excellent traction, even when wet. Its slip resistance often surpasses that of many natural woods.
- Hidden Fasteners: Many composite decks use concealed fastening systems, eliminating tripping hazards.
- No Splinters: Composite decking surfaces are smooth and resistant to splintering.
- Temperature Adaptability: In the summer, composite decks with lighter colors keep their surfaces cooler, making it more comfortable to walk outside.
Learn More: Children Are Safer on Decks with Composite Deck Boards
Disadvantages of Composite Decking and Solutions
Every material has its limitations, and composite decking is no exception. Below are some drawbacks of composite decking. However, you can take appropriate measures to address them.
Higher Initial Cost
The unit price of composite decking is indeed higher than that of many traditional woods. But when you look at it in terms of total lifecycle cost, its total cost over 25 to 30 years is really smaller. A lot of people also choose to install it themselves to save money. You can also keep an eye on dealer sales and purchases during off-peak times or deals at the end of the year.
Thermal Expansion and Contraction
Composite deck boards can grow in the heat of summer. Winter contraction can create holes. This is why the installation must be done correctly. When you place it, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s advice on how much space to leave. Avoid putting on during very hot or cold weather.
Surface Temperature
Dark composite deck boards may experience significant surface temperature increases under direct sunlight. Therefore, light-colored composite decking is preferred in hot regions. You may also add shade structures such as gazebos, umbrellas, or canvas awnings. Ventilation design and landscaping can also promote airflow and reduce temperatures.
Learn More: Does Composite Decking Get Hot?
Difficulty Altering Appearance
Composite deck boards cannot be sanded, stained, or painted. Once installed, altering its appearance is challenging. Therefore, exercise caution when selecting. Request samples for evaluation in the intended setting. For long-term aesthetic appeal, choose classic, timeless colors. Also, set aside a little bit of material from the same batch in case you need to change part of it later.
Types and Characteristics of Composite Decking
Composite decking has changed into many types because of new technologies and the needs of different markets. Each type possesses unique characteristics and suitable applications.
Classification by Surface Type
- Uncapped Composite Decking: This is the earliest type of composite wood decking. It is made of a material that is plastic and wood fibers mixed together evenly. It is a good choice for outdoor places with tight budgets because it is cheap and has a wood-like texture and look.
- Capped Composite: This stuff has a solid polymer layer layered over a WPC core. It represents the mainstream form of high-performance composite decking today. It offers outstanding stain resistance and fade resistance. Its surface is more scratch-resistant, and moisture resistance is further enhanced. It is suitable for nearly any setting, including humid or rainy regions.
Classification by Internal Structure
- Solid Composite Decking: The whole cross-section of solid composite decks is made up of solid material, and there aren’t any empty spaces in it. Advantages include strong load-bearing capacity and a substantial feel. It also offers superior thermal and acoustic insulation. Disadvantages include its heavy weight, which makes handling and installation more labor-intensive. Additionally, higher material usage results in increased costs. Therefore, it’s ideal for areas with high foot traffic and those that require a sturdy foundation.
- Hollow Composite Decking: Hollow composite decking is a light product because it has an internal hollow structure. This design conserves materials, resulting in lower costs. The internal cavities also aid in drainage and ventilation. The downsides are that it can’t hold as much weight. Additionally, edge treatment may require the addition of end caps. Consequently, it is suitable for projects with non-load-bearing requirements and limited budgets.
Learn More: What Is the Difference Between Hollow and Solid Composite Decking?
Classification by Edge Design
- Grooved Composite Decking: These boards feature precision-machined grooves on both sides. They can be secured using hidden fastening systems from the side.
- Square-Edge Composite Decking: Square-edge composite decking features a classic design with 90-degree right angles at the edges. It can be directly fastened using conventional screws. Installation is straightforward and relatively low-cost. However, visible fasteners remain on the surface.
Composite Deck Cost
Composite deck boards cost between $16 and $32 per square foot. Additionally, professional installation fees range from approximately $24 to $48 per square foot. Therefore, the total cost to build a composite deck can reach $40 to $80 per square foot. For a 20-foot by 20-foot composite deck, homeowners may incur total expenses ranging from $16,000 to $32,000.
| Deck Size (feet) | Square Feet | Average Cost Installed* |
| 8’x10′ | 80 | $3,200 – $6,400 |
| 10’x10′ | 100 | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| 10’x12′ | 120 | $4,800 – $9,600 |
| 12’x12′ | 144 | $5,750 – $11,500 |
| 12’x14′ | 168 | $6,700 – $13,450 |
| 12’x16′ | 192 | $7,680 – $15,350 |
| 12’x18′ | 216 | $8,650 – $17,280 |
| 12’x20′ | 240 | $9,600 – $19,200 |
| 14’x20′ | 280 | $11,200 – $22,400 |
| 16’x16′ | 256 | $10,250 – $20,480 |
| 20’x20′ | 400 | $16,000 – $32,000 |
| 20’x24′ | 480 | $19,200 – $38,400 |
| 24’x24′ | 576 | $23,000 – $46,000 |
Learn More: How Much Does a 20×20 Composite Deck Cost?
Composite Deck Colors and Finishes
Color is the most visually striking element in composite deck design. It shapes how outdoor spaces look and how people feel when they are there. Modern composite wood decking offers homeowners a wide array of color and finish options.
Composite Deck Colors and Characteristics
- Brown Tones: The most common color group for composite decking is brown. They mimic the most authentic hues of natural wood. Characterized by brightness and warmth, they enhance spatial perception. Suitable for traditional architectural styles and most climatic conditions. However, dark brown colors absorb a lot of heat in the sun, so they need to be carefully thought about in hot areas.
- Gray Tones: Gray-toned composite decking embodies contemporary design trends. Its cool, elegant texture appeals strongly to younger demographics. Light gray tones make spaces appear more spacious and bright. Dark gray offers dramatic visual impact, making it ideal for contemporary industrial aesthetics.
- Red Tones: Traditional mahogany, cherry, and mahogany hues fall within the red spectrum. Characterized by warmth and vibrancy, these tones suit spaces requiring visual focal points. They also foster social interaction and enhance a sense of warmth.
Composite Deck Finishing Techniques
Surface finishes change how something looks, how well it works, how safe it is, and how much upkeep it needs. Below are characteristics of several different finishes:
- Wood Grain Finish: Uses 3D hot-pressing technology to add 3D patterns to the surface of the board. Its pros include being very realistic and looking a lot like wood.
- Anti-Slip Textured Finishes: It comes in a range of patterns, such as geometric shapes, pebbly textures, and thin lines. Primarily used around pool decks, ramps, and damp areas to enhance safety.
- Smooth Finishes: Many composite decks also feature a bright, glossy, smooth finish. These surfaces are easy to clean and don’t let stains soak in. This makes them perfect for modern looks, business spaces, and areas that need to be cleaned often.
- Matte Finish: Matte finishes feature low reflectivity. They have a natural and soft look that makes them look high-end. They don’t let light reflect and hide scratches and wear. Currently, one of the most popular finish choices.
How to Choose the Right Color and Finish?
Selecting the appropriate color and finish requires consideration of multiple factors. In areas with intense sunlight, light-colored options are preferred as they reflect heat. Additionally, matte or textured surfaces can reduce glare. In places where sunlight isn’t as strong, medium to dark shades are best because they can make the surface a little warmer.
Also, areas with high heat and high humidity should have surfaces that are smooth and easy to clean. Color coordination with architectural style is also crucial. Modern-style buildings often utilize composite wood decking in gray tones or cool browns. Traditional-style buildings typically opt for classic browns, mahogany hues, and similar colors.
Top Composite Deck Brands
Choosing which composite deck brand depends on your specific needs. Trex, TimberTech, and EVODEK are all renowned for quality and variety. Each brand has its own strengths.
- Trex: Trex is a widely recognized and popular brand. It’s a good choice for resisting moisture and wear, and it comes in many colors and textures.
- TimberTech: TimberTech uses cutting-edge tech to make sure its products look good for a long time. It provides rich colors and realistic textures, showcasing premium quality.
- EVODEK: If you’re on a tight budget, consider EVODEK. It’s known for offering high-value composite decking products.
- MoistureShield: This is an excellent choice if you live in a hot, humid climate. The company is renowned for producing products specifically suited for damp environments.
Composite Deck Dimensions and Specifications
The size and specs of composite decking affect how safe the structure is, how much the materials cost, and how the finished product looks.
Common Deck Sizes
Most decks range between 300 and 400 square feet. For projects where room is tight or the budget is small, decks that are 10 feet by 10 feet or smaller will usually work. The table below illustrates the relationship between deck area and house footprint.
| Deck Size | Deck Dimensions | House Square Footage |
| Small | 10’x10′ (100 Sq. Ft.) | 500 Sq. Ft. |
| Small | 12’x16′ (192 Sq. Ft.) | 960 Sq. Ft. |
| Small | 12’x20′ (240 Sq. Ft.) | 1,200 Sq. Ft. |
| Medium | 15’x20′ (300 Sq. Ft.) | 1,500 Sq. Ft. |
| Medium | 19’x19′ (361 Sq. Ft.) | 1,805 Sq. Ft. |
| Medium | 14’x24′ (408 Sq. Ft.) | 2,040 Sq. Ft. |
| Large | 20’x24′ (480 Sq. Ft.) | 2,400 Sq. Ft. |
| Large | 23’x23′ (529 Sq. Ft.) | 2,645 Sq. Ft. |
| Large | 20’x29′ (580 Sq. Ft.) | 2,900 Sq. Ft. |
How to Choose the Right Size for a Composite Deck?
In general, composite decks should look good with the way your home and yard are shaped. Some homeowners also add features like pools, gazebos, or children’s play areas. Therefore, avoid building a deck too large, which can make your outdoor space feel crowded.
For family dining and small gatherings, a deck under 300 square feet may suffice. If you frequently host large parties, you can increase the deck size accordingly. Of course, budget considerations are essential. Larger decks incur higher costs. Before starting construction, request a comprehensive quote from your contractor.
Applications of Composite Decking
Because it has unique benefits for how well it works, composite decking has been used in a lot of different places.
Residential Living Spaces
Composite wood decking is a great way to connect the inside and outside of modern homes. It gives a safe, long-lasting, and good-looking surface for decks. It is also good for homes with pools or other water features because it resists slipping and keeps people safe even when it’s wet.
Multi-Functional Outdoor Living Areas
Composite decking is also extensively used in various functional outdoor zones, such as:
- Outdoor Kitchens & Dining Areas: Its resistance to stains and ease of cleaning make it easy to deal with food grease and drink spills.
- Children’s Play Areas: The surface prevents splinters, ensuring safe play for kids.
- Entertainment Spaces: The high load-bearing ability of composite decking supports heavy patio furniture.
- Pet Activity Areas: Its scratch-resistant, easy-to-clean surface accommodates pets comfortably.
- Stair Treads and Railings: The material that resists slipping and cracking makes stair parts and rails safer.
Commercial and Public Spaces
Composite decking is mostly used for the outdoor sitting areas of restaurants, cafes, and bars. It is easy to take care of, which lowers the cost of doing business with it. A lot of different colours and textures can be used with brands of all kinds. Furthermore, high-traffic public spaces demand highly durable materials. Composite decking perfectly meets these requirements.
How to Install Composite Decking?
Proper installation of composite decks is crucial for ensuring performance and longevity. The installation process generally involves the following steps.
Preliminary Planning and Preparation
Before beginning construction, survey and assess the site. Accurately measure the dimensions of the installation area. Check for levelness and drainage slope. Then, determine the deck height and shape. Choose the way for laying and plan for extra features like railings, lighting, and stairs. Based on these plans, prepare sufficient composite deck materials and tools. Additionally, consult local building codes to confirm whether a construction permit is required.
Building the Foundation
Make sure there are no plants, rocks, or other things, and put down weed barrier fabric. Fill and compact the gravel subbase. A solid foundation structure ensures the safety and durability of the composite deck. Concrete footings are the most common foundation choice, suitable for most soil conditions.
Building the Deck Frame
Once the foundation is complete, begin constructing the deck’s structural framework.
- Install Posts: Secure posts to foundation piers using specialised bases. Ensure posts are vertical and temporarily brace them until joists are installed.
- Install Joists: Using post hangers to connect to the posts, install the end and middle joists. Secure joists to house walls. Use a level to ensure perfect straightness.
- Install Decking Boards: Install boards perpendicular to the joist direction. Follow manufacturer spacing requirements during installation. Use joist hangers to ensure secure connections. Reinforce structures under heavy loads like hot tubs.
Learn More: What is The Best Composite Decking Subframe for The Deck?
Installing Deck Boards
The look and function of a composite deck depend on the deck boards, which need to be installed carefully. Start in one corner of the deck and place the first board. Make sure the edge gaps are right when you install it.
Most composite decking utilises a hidden fastening system. Secure clips to the joists, then slide the board’s tongue into the clips. For screw-fastening systems, pre-drill holes to prevent splitting. Additionally, controlling board-to-board spacing is critical. Follow the manufacturer’s advice on gap size.
Additional Tasks
After installation, several finishing details are required. For example:
- Edge Finishing: Install composite deck-specific edge trim, ensuring color coordination with the decking. This provides a clean appearance and protects edges.
- Stair and Railing Installation: Install code-compliant stair and railing systems. Railing height must meet local code requirements.
- Final Inspection: Finally, verify all connections are secure with no loose fasteners. Check for uniform spacing between boards. Ensure drainage is unobstructed with no standing water areas.
Composite Deck Fastening System
The hidden fastening system is a big step forward in the technology used to build composite decks. It has revolutionized both the aesthetic appeal and installation methods of outdoor decks.
This system comprises specialized clips and installation tools. During installation, clips are first secured to the joists with screws. Then, the clips are lined up with the tongue-and-groove sides of the composite deck boards, which are then gently hit into place with a rubber mallet. The clips allow for thermal expansion and contraction while still keeping a tight grip. The concealed fastening system offers the following advantages:
- Ultimate Aesthetics: There are no visible screws or nail heads on the deck’s surface, which makes it look completely smooth. This significantly enhances overall visual appeal.
- Enhanced Safety: It gets rid of things that you can trip over, so it’s great for homes with kids or older people. Additionally, it prevents potential scratches from metal fasteners.
- Optimized Performance: Reduced surface perforations significantly lower moisture penetration risks. This protects underlying wood structures from dampness, extending the entire deck system’s lifespan.
- Installation Efficiency: Standardized clips ensure consistent board spacing, simplifying the installation process. Professional installation teams can accelerate construction by over 30%.
Learn More: Composite Decking Hidden Fasteners vs. Screws
Composite Deck Care and Maintenance
Composite decking doesn’t need a lot of care, but keeping up with the right maintenance can really help it last longer and look great.
- Daily Maintenance: Routine upkeep is key to preventing issues from accumulating. Clean weekly or monthly as needed, focusing on board gaps, corners, and under railings. Remove debris like leaves, pollen, and sand to prevent mildew and staining.
- Immediate Cleaning: Blot spills immediately with a dry cloth. Rinse affected areas with water to avoid prolonged liquid exposure. Promptly clean up pet waste if you have pets.
- Seasonal Cleaning: Conduct a deep clean each season. In spring, inspect for deck damage and drainage issues. In summer, check for expansion and ensure ventilation spaces remain unobstructed. In autumn, sweep fallen leaves daily to prevent buildup. In winter, promptly remove snow using a plastic snow shovel to reduce the weight load.
Comparison of Composite Decking and Natural Wood
Composite wood decking is often used as a superior alternative to natural wood. Significant differences exist in the following areas:
Maintenance Requirements
Composite decking fundamentally addresses the inherent flaws of natural wood. Natural wood is susceptible to degradation from biological and environmental factors. This difference results in vastly different maintenance demands. Composite deck materials require only occasional rinsing. Natural wood needs to be cleaned, sanded, oiled, or stained once a year, and it needs to be resealed every two to three years. Long-term maintenance costs may exceed the initial investment.
Durability and Lifespan
In outdoor environments, composite decking demonstrates superior overall durability. It is entirely protected from moisture, rot, and termites. It works very well in places that are humid and lasts for 25 to 30 years. Wood breaks down faster in places that are wet, and it only lasts about 10 to 15 years.
Aesthetics
Today’s composite decking looks a lot like wood and comes in many more colors than real wood. Natural wood has a natural fee, but it doesn’t come in many colors. Composite decking also provides greater design consistency.
Environmental Sustainability
Composite decking is better for the environment because it uses recycled plastics and wood. Chemicals used in natural wood processing may cause environmental pollution. Extensive logging of forest resources also damages ecosystems.
Learn More: Wood Decking Vs. Composite Decking: A Complete Comparison
Factors to Consider When Purchasing Composite Decking
Before you buy composite decks, you need to think about a lot of things to make sure it is the right material for you.
- Budget: Prices vary significantly across brands and models. Select composite deck boards within your budget that suit your needs.
- Climate: Select products based on local weather conditions. In humid regions, prioritize mold resistance ratings and low water absorption rates. For areas with intense sunlight, choose products with high UV resistance ratings.
- Color and Texture: Ask for samples to test in the real world so you can see how the color performs in different lighting situations. Select surface textures according to your preferences. Households with children or elderly residents should prioritize slip resistance.
- System Components: Make sure that the edge trims, stair parts, hidden fasteners, and other decking accessories are all full and color-matched. Check for specialized transition strips, edge caps, and other detail fittings.
- Brand Reputation: Prioritize brands with long-term market validation. Confirm whether the manufacturer provides value-added services like installation guidance and maintenance warranties.
Learn More: What to Look for When Buying Composite Decking?
Conclusion
Composite decking is a favorite in the outdoor building materials sector. It gets around the upkeep issues of traditional wood and provides a new way to think about outdoor life. It’s unique because it’s low-maintenance, long-lasting, customizable, and environmentally friendly. Premium composite decking creates lasting value for your outdoor space.
If you’d like to learn more about composite decking, feel free to contact EVODEK. We provide complimentary samples and answer your questions.
FAQ
How Do I Treat Scratches on Composite Decking?
Scratches that aren’t very deep usually go away after a while. For scratches that are easier to see, use a heat gun to slowly warm the scratched area, and then wipe with a soft cloth in the direction of the grain. Never sand or paint over scratches, because that hurts the protective layer. If there is a lot of damage, replace the whole board.
Does Composite Decking Look Like Real Wood?
Today’s composite decks look a lot like real wood. It looks and feels almost exactly like wood. Composite decks also have more color choices. You can find wood with grains that go along with the way your home is decorated.
Can I Barbecue on Composite Decking?
High-quality composite decks can handle short-term high temperatures, but it needs to be protected.
- Place a dedicated fire-resistant pad beneath the grill.
- Maintain a minimum 30cm distance between heat sources and the deck surface.
- Clean grease promptly to prevent seepage.
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