What are Composite Decks?

More and more homeowners go for composite decks they extend their outdoors. The new vinyl or wooden deck alternative requires minimal maintenance and is available in different styles and colors. If you’re thinking of installing a composite deck yourself, here are some questions that you may want to answer first.   

  1. Why composites? 

Composite coverings are made of wood and plastic fibers, which look much like traditional wood surfaces. The composite covers are made of recycled materials as well. Most preservative additives are used in manufacturing and traditional wooden deck splitters can be skipped.   

  1. Will composite decks last long? 

Composite decks are popular for their long life. The wood finers are protected with plastic. This makes composite decks not susceptible to rust, degradation, and termites. It also does not dissipate or disappear from prolonged sunlight and colder temperatures. These decks also come with a 10 to 25 years warranty, ensuring that no structural damage occurs in normal housing conditions.  

  1. Are there different styles and colors available? 

Composite decks come in different colors and textures other than wood. Homeowners will find the best one for their decks. Use colors such as natural wood walnut or teak, silver or gray. There are also smooth, grooved textures, together with a range of interchangeable choices with a simple polished texture on one side. Real grain wood texture is found on the other.  

  1. How does solid and hollow-core boards differ? 

The solid boards are similar to oaks, and they’re sturdy. Hollow boards are mostly ribbed. They’re man-made, too. Both options offer a solid finish. These can be used to build quality decks.  

  1. How do grooved and non-grooved boards differ? 

Grooved and non-grooved boards come in different edges. Grooved boards have a nozzle or channel to the bottom and are fitted with sealed deck attachments instead of clear nails. Unbroken boards have sturdy borders and are fixed to the top with nails.  

  1. Do we need to patch the composite deck? 

Composite decks don’t require extensive maintenance. Remove dirt, dust, and leaves regularly. Use a vacuum cleaner, cloth, and mild cleanser to clean your deck every six months. Do not power washers as these devices will damage the composite boards. In comparison to wooden boards, compound tops do not require sealing, staining, and waterproofing.  

  1. Could you paint composite decks? 

Experts do not suggest coloring or staining a composite deck because it is already pigmented. If the composite deck is painted or stained, then regular maintenance will be required, which is similar to wooden decks.  

  1. Is there a need for special composite covering equipment or devices?  

There is no need to use special tools for composite decking installation. Woodworking devices are required for constructing and cutting. If your composite deck is mounted at an angle of 45 degrees, the best outcome is not more than 12 cm in the middle.  

These are all that you need to know about composite decking. If you want to learn more, do a search for deck builders near me and you’ll find qualified contractors who can help you out with this project.