Maintaining a deck could require a lot of work, especially if the materials used are prone to damage.
Earlier deck constructions were mainly made of lumber that needed high yearly maintenance. That’s why homeowners have switched to composite decking.
Newer houses with decks can now choose either timber or composite materials for the structure.
Composite materials are made of wood fibers mixed with plastic film through bonding agents. They are often chosen because they are more durable than their wood counterpart.
However, going for composite decking depends on many other factors. So, if you’re wondering if composite decking suits your home, stick around and find out.
What Is Composite Decking?
Simply put, composite decking refers to deck construction that uses composite materials such as deck boards made of recycled lumber and high-density plastic strips.
It is considered eco-friendly and sustainable as composite materials are less prone to damage sustained by wood decks.
What Do I Need to Know About Composite Decking?
Composite decking is not a complicated project. All you need to know is how the composite materials match your aesthetic taste and the level of maintenance they require.
While a wooden look is often the top choice for a deck, composite decks are not too far from achieving this look.
In terms of maintenance, composite decks require less work as they are more resistant to water damage, termite infestation, and other critical destruction.
What to Consider When Choosing a Composite Deck?
There are a few factors you need to understand before you go for composite decking. That includes the type of materials, visual aesthetic, design, size, budget, and other factors.
Furthermore, it is best to determine if you plan to outsource the construction project to professional deck builders or do it yourself.
Materials
Composite decking materials are not hard to find, especially in this day and age where everything is found online.
We’ve established that deck boards, which comprise a majority of the deck, are made of recycled timber and plastic.
However, composite deck board quality may differ from one manufacturer to another. Hence, it greatly benefits your project if you choose high-grade composite decking products from reliable manufacturers. And if you’re looking for exactly that, you can check out TimberTech.
On the other hand, if you plan to hire a contractor or team of experts in Colorado to build your composite deck, you can rest assured that TNT Home Improvements use nothing less than quality materials from TimberTech.
Visual Aesthetics and Design
Planning to build a composite deck involves identifying the right color that matches your home, the shape of the deck, and many other factors of its visual appeal.
With composite boards, you don’t need to paint the deck as they already come in a variety of colors. Moreover, some colors and the textures almost imitate that of a wooden deck.
Hence, if you’re going for a traditional lumber deck look but with high considerations for durability, then composite decking could just be the right choice for your taste.
Size
The size of the composite deck depends on the area where the structure is placed. It could also be influenced by the type of activities you’re thinking of doing on the deck.
Moreover, size can also depend on your budget. It’s a general principle in a way. Larger composite decks will have more expenses than smaller and medium-sized ones.
Budget
The type of composite deck you can build in your home also relies on the budget at hand. If you have a tight budget, you may have to consider the size and the type of composite materials to use.
Unfortunately, cheaper boards tend to have less quality than costlier ones. So, you may have to rethink the size of the finished space.
Location
While composite decking materials are highly durable, they could still deteriorate over time. Fortunately, you can enjoy it for longer than wood boards.
Nonetheless, its speed of deterioration can be influenced by its position. For example, if it’s directly exposed to strong sunlight, it could start to fade faster.
Therefore, it’s good to consider the position or whether you should put up a deck cover.
Is Composite Decking Any Good?
Yes, composite decking is a great choice and can be well worth the money you spend.
You can think of composite decking as an evolutionary step in deck building. It resolved some of the critical issues that came along with wooden decks while maintaining outstanding aesthetics in the process.
Check out some of the benefits of composite decking.
Composite decking materials are made against common decking damages.
It’s always about high-quality and endurance all the way. These are what many homeowners look for in a deck. Composite decking offers exactly these qualities.
As man-made materials, they are designed to withstand damages caused by molds, mildew, water and sunlight exposure, and many others.
It requires low maintenance.
Since composite decks are less prone to damages, it also means that they need low maintenance compared to any other type of deck. So, if you don’t have the time and extra energy to refinish your deck once a year, better stick to a composite deck.
It is easier to hide the fasteners
Because of the way most composite deck boards are manufactured, they are created with special groves down the side that can be used to attach hidden fasteners.
These fasteners have sharp teeth that grab the boards on either side of it and a screw run down through the middle holding it securely to a joist underneath. All of this sits down in between the boards making for a clean finish.
It’s environmentally friendly.
Composite materials are made of recycled items. Hence, they are more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Moreover, they last longer, so you can save yourself from frequent board replacements.
What Is Bad About Composite Decking?
Although composite decking has plenty of advantages, it doesn’t mean that it has no drawbacks.
It can be pricey.
Composite decking can be a bit pricier than your average wood deck. The high cost is primarily due to the durability that comes with the material. Nonetheless, you get your money’s worth as composite decking lasts longer than any other deck.
It lacks the natural feel of the deck.
While it’s true that composite deck imitates the color, pattern, and sometimes texture of wood. However, if you were to compare them side by side you would see that composite lacks that real wood feel.
Especially if you are someone who likes stained wood and seeing the depth and layers of the grain, composite may not be for you.
It still needs some degree of maintenance.
You will have to maintain your composite deck to ensure that it remains durable for the years to come. It includes sweeping the deck board, picking the leaves, and the occasional light wash or spot clean.
How Much Does a Composite Deck Cost?
The average cost of a composite deck is about $8,000, give or take. The full price depends on the size of the deck and your choice of materials. Composite boards cost about $20 to $40 per square foot.
How Long Does a Composite Deck Last?
A well-maintained composite deck can last between 25 to 30 years. After that, replacing the boards wouldn’t be a pain, especially if you choose composite products with warranties.
How Does Composite Decking Drain?
Under the composite deck, you can install a gutter system. Therefore, you will have to reserve the surface below for drainage that directs the water out from under the deck.
If you’re wondering if a drainage system designed for decks is right for your next project, then check out our article “What is Underdecking”
Final Thoughts
A composite deck is a fine addition to your home structure. Not only does it provide a space for backyard or outdoor activities, but it also increases the value of your house.
If you’re considering composite decking, make sure you consult with professional builders to help you plan the project within your budget range.If you are located in the Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming area, then give us a call today at 970-663-2868 or visit our deck services page and fill out the contact form to make an appointment to discuss your next home improvement project.
