Thinking about a new deck? Composite decking has become a popular choice for homeowners who want the beauty of wood without the constant upkeep. This guide will walk you through the different aspects of composite boards, helping you understand what to consider so you can make the best choice for your outdoor space.
Composite decking is a man-made building product created from a mix of materials. The core ingredients are typically a blend of recycled wood fibers (like sawdust or wood chips) and recycled plastics (like grocery bags or milk jugs). These materials are heated, formed into board-shaped lengths, and then cooled. The result is a dense, durable, and heavy board that is more resistant to the elements than traditional wood.
Many modern composite boards also feature a protective outer layer, or “cap,” made of a tough polymer. This shell provides enhanced protection against fading, staining, and scratching, which was a common issue with earlier generations of composite materials.
Choosing the right decking involves more than just picking a color. Understanding the key differences between products will ensure your new deck meets your expectations for years to come.
The image in the ad shows boards with a hollow core, which is one of the two main types of composite board construction.
This is perhaps the most important distinction in modern composite decking.
There’s no getting around it: composite decking has a higher upfront cost than standard pressure-treated pine.
However, the true cost should be viewed over the lifetime of the deck. A wood deck requires regular sanding, staining, or sealing every one to three years, which costs time and money. Composite decking only requires occasional cleaning with soap and water. Over 25 years, the lower maintenance costs of composite can make it the more economical choice.
This is where composite decking truly shines. The manufacturing process allows for an incredible range of styles that can mimic the look of exotic hardwoods without the environmental impact or maintenance.
Composite decking is installed on a standard wood frame just like a traditional deck. However, it’s heavier and more flexible than wood, so it’s critical to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for joist spacing to prevent sagging.
You also have choices for how the boards are fastened:
As suggested by the 🌿 emoji in the ad, composite decking is often considered an eco-friendly choice. Leading brands like Trex report that their decking is made from 95% recycled materials. By using reclaimed wood scraps and recycled plastic, the industry diverts millions of pounds of waste from landfills each year. This also reduces the demand for harvesting virgin timber.
How long does composite decking last? Most composite decking comes with a 25-year limited warranty, with many brands also offering an additional 25-year or longer fade and stain warranty. With proper installation and basic cleaning, a composite deck can easily last for 30 years or more.
Does composite decking get hot in the sun? Yes, like most decking materials, composite boards can get hot in direct sunlight, especially darker colors. However, many manufacturers now offer “cool-touch” technology in their lighter-colored boards to help reduce heat absorption, making them more comfortable for bare feet.
Can you paint or stain composite decking? It is strongly advised not to paint or stain modern capped composite decking. The protective cap is designed to be the final, maintenance-free surface. Painting it would void the warranty and create a new maintenance task for you, as the paint would likely peel over time.