Composite decking has grown in popularity as a durable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wooden decking and blends wood fibres, plastics, and polymers to create a unique product that resists damage while requiring little upkeep when cared for properly.
This guide provides a thorough overview of what composite decking is, its pros and cons, costs, installation, maintenance and more.
What is Composite Decking?
Composite decking is made by combining recycled wood fibres, plastics, polymers and additional additives using heat and pressure to create durable deck boards. The most common materials include:
- Wood fibres - Derived from hardwoods like oak or softwoods like pine to provide a natural, wood-like aesthetic.
- HDPE - High-density polyethylene plastic from recycled milk jugs, detergent bottles, and plastic bags.
- PVC - Polyvinyl chloride polymer from recycled plastic items. Provides weather resistance.
- Polypropylene - A resilient thermoplastic polymer from recycled plastic waste.
- Polystyrene - Added for enhanced structural rigidity.
- Pigments - Added for coloration options.
The exact ratio of ingredients, quality of the raw materials, and manufacturing methods impact the durability, longevity and pricing of the final boards.
Higher-end "capped" composites feature a protective polymer shell that encapsulates the color pigments below the surface. This enhances fade and stain resistance.
Triton grey composite decking available in 3m, 3.6m & 5m lengths
The Pros of Composite Decking
Composite decking offers several compelling advantages over traditional timber:
Extreme Durability
- Withstands moisture, rotting, cracking, insect damage better than wood.
- Lasts 2-3 times longer than pressure treated pine when properly installed.
- Most offer residential warranties of 20-25 years.
- Properly maintained composites easily last 30+ years.
Low Maintenance
- Requires no sanding, staining or refinishing like wood decks.
- Simply needs occasional soap and water washing to keep clean.
- Eliminates constant repairs from cracking, splintering and warping.
Attractive Colors & Patterns
- Available in a diverse range of colours and realistic wood grain patterns.
- Provides design flexibility not possible with traditional wood decking.
- Can match any color scheme from contemporary grays to warm natural reddish-browns.
Eco-Friendly Materials
- Uses recycled wood fibres and plastic waste rather than virgin materials.
- Production avoids unnecessary harvesting of forests.
- No harmful paints, stains or chemical treatments required.
Slip-Resistant Surface
- Embossed wood grain patterns provide increased grip when wet.
- Much safer for children and elderly users than smooth wooden deck boards.
Resists Rot, Splintering, Warping
- Highly resistant to fungal decay, moisture damage and wood's tendency to twist.
- No splinter hazard like traditional cracked and aging wood boards.
Insect and Termite Proof
- Inedible to wood-boring pests like termites that destroy wooden decks.
- No need for chemical treatments or tenting to guard against infestations.
The Cons of Composite Decking
While composites have many benefits compared to natural wood, some potential drawbacks should be considered:
Higher Upfront Cost
- Composite decking boards costs 50 - 75 % more than pressure treated softwood, though it is cheaper than quality hardwood
- But the exceptional durability and low maintenance warrant the higher initial investment.
Can Still Fade Over Time
- Gradual fading can occur after years of sun exposure, especially in hot climates.
- Quality capped composites fade the least. Periodic cleaning helps minimize color loss.
Permanent Coloring
- Color cannot be easily changed like wood can with stains and paints.
- Make sure to get color samples to confirm it complements your home.
Can Still Be Damaged
- Not impervious to scratches, gouges and stubborn stains if subjected to abuse.
- Capped composites resist damage better than uncapped alternatives.
Lacks The Charm of Natural Wood
- Lacks depth and nuance of real exotic hardwoods like cedar or redwood.
- Wood grain pattern is recreated but still has a slightly artificial, printed look.
Heavier than Wood
- A 3.6 metre composite board can weight twice as much as it's softwood equivalent.
- Requires sturdier framing and reinforcement to handle heavier weight.
Specialty Cuts and Shapes Cost More
- Intricate designs, circle decking, custom routing is expensive with composites.
- Best for simple linear board layouts rather than elaborate wood-like detailing.
What is Composite Decking Used For?
Composite decking works well for most standard residential and commercial decking applications:
- Garden decking
- Rooftop decks
- Swimming pool surrounds
- Boardwalks
- Marinas and docks
- Restaurant patio decking
- Public parks
Heavy traffic areas like hotels, resorts, pools, parks and restaurants are ideal uses to leverage it's durability and low maintenance.
Composite decking isn't recommended for heavily shaded areas though, as lack of sunlight can lead to mold/mildew growth within the decking gaps if moisture gets trapped.
How to Choose Quality Composite Brands
With numerous brands on the market, it's important to understand how to evaluate quality and choose products suitable for your particular project and region. Consider the following criteria when researching brands:
- Materials - Quality of wood fibres, plastics, polymers and additives impact durability.
- Caps - Prefer co-extruded polymer caps that fully encase the composites for superior protection.
- Hardware - Use matching screws, fasteners and clips designed for the specific decking.
- Slip Resistance - Look for embossed wood grain textures that provide grip when wet.
- Warranty - Coverage periods range from 10 years to lifetime. Read terms closely.
- Brand Reputation - Seek brands known for honouring warranties without excessive claims denied.
- Price - Balances budget with quality. Paying more yields better longevity.
- Eco-Friendly - Look for ample recycled content and sustainable manufacturing processes.
- Colours - Availability of tones suiting your colour scheme preferences.
- Local Selection - What reputable brands and colors are stocked locally if ordering online not preferred.
What Does Composite Decking Cost?
The total installed cost for a composite deck includes the substructure, decking boards, fasteners, railings and accessories, site preparation and demolition, plus labor. Here is a typical composite deck cost breakdown for a 20 square metre garden deck project:
- Composite decking boards - £800 - £1200
- Support beams, joists, posts - £500 - £1000
- Deck screws,fasteners & trims - £100 - £200
- Installation labour - £2000 to £4000
- Site clearance & preparation - £1000
Total installed cost range - £4400 - £7400
For a more basic 10 square metre deck, expect total costs around £3500 to £5000 + depending on the chosen products and complexity.
The initial cost is higher for composite vs. wood, but the long term value is worth it for most homeowners due to the minimal maintenance requirements and longevity of quality composite decking.
How to Install Composite Deck Boards
Proper composite deck installation technique is critical to achieve optimal results. Here are some best practices when constructing a deck:
- Allow 25mm gaps between boards for drainage and expansion/contraction of materials.
- Use hidden fasteners or recommended composite decking screws. Predrill holes at board ends to prevent cracking.
- Fasten boards perpendicular to joists, or diagonally for picture framing. Follow all manufacturer specifications.
- Space joists at 300mm intervals for best support with heavyweight composite planks.
- Allow 25-50mm of space between deck structure and permanent structures for drainage and airflow.
- Check local building regulations for requirements on footings, framing, fasteners, railings etc.
Maintaining Composite Deck Boards
With just periodic cleaning and sealing where applicable, quality composites stay looking new for decades. Here are some care and maintenance tips:
- Sweep regularly to prevent debris, dirt and leaf buildup in gaps.
- Clean annually with composite deck cleaner to remove stains, mildew, grime.
- Some brands recommend resealing every 1-2 years to renew stain resistance.
- Inspect for damage, loose screws, improper drainage or moisture every year.
- Immediately replace any cracked, warped or damaged boards.
- Reseal all exposed cut board ends with end grain sealer to prevent moisture absorption.
With proper installation and care, composite decks are built to last. But regular maintenance is still required to keep the surface clear of dirt buildup and prevent moisture issues over the long term.
Summary
Composite decking has grown in popularity as a durable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wooden decking. While it comes at a higher initial cost than timber, the value becomes clear when you consider the extreme durability, minimal upkeep, and longevity offered by quality composite brands.
With proper installation and care, a composite deck will provide decades of enjoyment with no splintering, cracking, twisting or painting required. Just be sure to research manufacturers thoroughly, read warranties closely, and install properly.
Check out our complete range of composite decking here
Composite Decking FAQ's
How does composite decking compare to wood in terms of longevity?
Quality composite decking lasts 2-3 times longer than traditional pressure treated wood when installed and maintained properly. Composite easily lasts 30+ years versus 10-15 years for wood before showing signs of deterioration.
Does composite decking require staining or sealing?
No. Composite decking is designed to retain its colour and resist weathering without stains, seals or chemical treatments required by wood decks. Some composites recommend periodic resealing to renew stain protection every 1-2 years.
Can you paint or stain composite decking?
It's not recommended. Composite decking is designed to be maintenance free and altering the color through painting or staining can void the warranty. The factory applied color pigments run throughout the core.
Does composite decking get hot in the sun?
Excessive heat can be an issue with any decking material. Composite decking does absorb and retain heat from sunlight. Light colored boards stay cooler than darker composites. Composite is also not recommended for heavily shaded areas that lack sun exposure.
Can you use composite decking for stairs?
Yes. Most quality composite brands manufacture stair treads and risers than can be integrated into stairs on a deck. Using the matching composite stair components provides consistent aesthetics and slip resistance.
Is composite or wood decking cheaper?
Wood decking has a lower upfront cost, but composite pays for itself long term due to its exceptional durability and lack of maintenance required. Composite should last 2-3 times longer than wood when properly installed and cared for.
See also:
Composite Decking Vs Wood Decking : a Comparison
Choosing and Installing Composite Decking
Easy Maintenance Tips for Composite Decking
