What is the downside of composite decking?
Composite decking absorbs and retains heat, especially when exposed to direct sunlight. The boards may take hours to cool down before you can walk on them comfortably without shoes. Besides preventing you from fully enjoying your investment, scorching deck boards can put children and pets at risk.
Is composite decking really worth it?
However, the additional benefits of composite materials make up for the initial financial outlay of a composite deck. The product may be slightly more expensive, but its range of benefits including low maintenance, fade, scratch, and insect resistance far outweighs cheaper wooden decking boards in the long run.
Is there something better than composite decking?
All in all, modified wood outperforms composite decking in nearly all categories. Homeowners stuck between standard wood and composite would do well to opt for modified wood over either option.
How long does composite decking really last?
Current estimates have the lifespan of modern composite decks at between 30-50 years, depending on how well they were installed, cared for, and maintained.
Should I replace my wood deck with composite?
The Bottom Line
Resurfacing your wood deck with composite boards is an excellent choice, considering it's much more durable and low maintenance. But the lifespan of any deck depends on the structure underneath.
Does composite decking rot from water?
This polymer coating is the main reason why composite decking doesn't rot. It's completely waterproof and prevents any kind of water from penetrating the boards. It also protects the boards and preserves the finish and colour, so you'll never need to sand, stain, or seal your composite deck boards.
Is composite decking slippery when wet?
Like most surfaces, composite decking can become slippery, especially when wet. That said, good-quality composite decking boards produced to high standards are specifically developed with anti-slip properties built-in (not slip-proof). Nevertheless, care should always be taken with any wet surface underfoot.
Do composite decks get hotter than wood?
While early composite decks were susceptible to temperature and did get notoriously hot, new composite decking materials are much more resistant to heat. High-quality modern composite boards don't become hotter than traditional wooden deck boards.
Why is composite decking so expensive?
The process by which composite deck boards are manufactured means that more raw materials are used, resulting in a product which performs better, lasts longer and requires no maintenance. We believe that's worth paying more for.
What is the best decking material?
Cedar Decking
If you prefer a natural look, cedar is one of the best decking materials on the market. Cedar is a soft yet very durable wood. It adjusts to moisture in the air around it, making it less likely to warp or crack during colder temperatures.
What is the best deck material for full sun?
Light-Colored Composite Deck Boards Are Better for Full Sun
That means decking colors with darker tones likely don't stay as cool when exposed to direct sunlight.
Is PVC decking better than composite?
PVC lasts much longer than other decking materials because it's entirely synthetic and resistant to rot and weathering. TimberTech's Advanced PVC has a lifespan of 50 years or more, so you can enjoy your dream deck for decades to come. Composite decking still outperforms traditional wood with a 25-to-30-year life span.
Is composite decking bad in the winter?
Even in the event of snowy weather, composite decking is a fantastic surface that's built to withstand the frosty cold. Extremely hard-wearing, you can even fend of the snow and ice by using rock salt or calcium chloride without fears of damaging the decking surface beneath when the snow/ice melts.
Can you ruin composite decking?
The primary reason is that composite material is softer than wood and can easily be damaged by a composite deck power wash. If the material becomes damaged, this can lead to a host of compounding issues that could ultimately increase your maintenance needs and costs while reducing the lifespan of your deck.
Will composite decking fade in the sun?
But it's not invulnerable. Here are just three factors that contribute to the fading of a composite deck: UV rays: The sun's UV rays are one of the main culprits when it comes to fading. The more exposure your composite deck gets to direct sunlight, the faster fading occurs.
Does a composite deck get hot?
One study found that in direct sunlight, composite decks can reach temperatures from 34° to 76° F hotter than the surrounding air. On an 80° day, that could mean a deck surface temperature of more than 150°.
Can you mix composite decking with wood?
You have more than one option for your materials. You might think that it's standard just to build a wood, composite, or vinyl deck, but it turns out that you can combine your deck materials. It's common to mix composite decking with wood; here is how this combination could benefit you and how you can implement it.
Can I put composite decking over existing wood deck?
Laying composite decking over existing wood decking is fairly simple and has several benefits. It's less time-consuming than fully replacing a wooden deck and is an easy way to revitalise the look of your outdoor space. Remember, you must check the existing wood deck and its foundations for any rot before you begin.
Why does my composite deck always look dirty?
Poor maintenance
Buildup of leaves, dust and debris can cause mold and rot over a long timeframe, so cleaning composite decking at regular intervals would help prevent faded Trex decking. The more frequently you do it, the less of a job it'll be.
Why is my composite decking cracking?
One of the most common reasons for cracked boards is the improper configuration of joists. Joists are perpendicular beams which run beneath your deck and provide support to your decking, allowing it to handle the weight.
Can composite decking catch fire?
The truth is no composite decking is completely fireproof. The material make-up of the product makes total fire retardancy impossible. Whilst some Class-B fire-rated materials exist, the fire treatment often affects the performance, quality, and finish of the material.
Can I pour boiling water on composite decking?
Pour warm water onto the ice
Hot water has long been an effective, low cost measure to deal with a buildup of ice, but when it comes to your decking we'd recommend steering clear of using boiling water.
Can you paint composite decking?
You can paint composite decks if they don't have polymer capping, which is mostly older decks. However, once you paint your boards, you'll likely have to repaint them within a few years when the finish degrades.
Does rain go through composite decking?
There is no type of decking that is fully waterproof unless it is made from purely synthetic materials. However, composite decking is one of the most water-resistant materials available and it is also very slip-resistant.
What composite decking stays cool in the sun?
Trex Transcend® Lineage™ Composite Decking
Engineered with heat-mitigating technology in the shell, Lineage boards reflect the sun and stay cooler than other composite decking offerings of a similar color.
What is the best material for a deck in hot weather?
Hardwoods, Composites, and PVC Do Not Get Hot Underfoot
Decking materials that retain heat will become uncomfortably hot to walk on. Hardwoods, composites, and PVC alternatives are superior in this regard. Hardwoods, such as Ipe, Cumaru, and Teak, naturally stay cooler because they don't hold as much heat.
What is the best decking for hot weather?
Ipe decking packs in a lot of features and is one of our top choices for many reasons. It's a very dense wood which makes it incredibly durable and causes it retains less heat than its counterparts. Ipe does come with a slightly higher price tag but it certainly delivers on what you are paying for.
How much does a 20 x20 composite deck cost?
The Bottom Line
Fiberon stands out by far as the best budget option, with composite decking boards that are comparable in price to treated, real wood decking boards. TimberTech offers the best boards for a natural wood look if style is a main concern.
What is the best brand of composite decking?
So how much does composite decking cost? On average, a composite deck costs between $4.50 to $13 per square foot for the decking alone, or about $30 to $60 per square foot installed, including the substructure (joists, posts, and beams).
How much should I pay for a composite deck?
Proper maintenance and prevention can protect any deck from the harsh weather of winter, but upgrading to composite or PVC materials is best if you expect large or frequent snowfall on your deck. These materials are less susceptible to water damage with significantly fewer maintenance requirements than wood.
What is the best material for decking in cold climates?
Compared with what has been discussed already, some cheaper alternatives to wooden decking boards include rubber mats, wood chippings and pallet decking. These more budget-friendly options may not have the same aesthetic appeal as timber, composite or PVC decking - but they do come with their benefits.
What is better than decking?
Decking of composite is the most weather-resistant material and requires nearly little maintenance. If you want to build a beautiful deck that will endure for a long time, composite decking is the best option, whether evaluated in terms of long-term investment expenses or time saved on maintenance.
What is the best long term decking?
Any decking material will feel warm if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time, be it natural timber or composite boards. However, hollow decking, such as our Premier and Superior ranges, can stay cooler for longer. Being lighter and less dense than solid boards, they don't absorb and retain as much heat.
Does all composite decking get hot in the sun?
Gray Decks
This popular neutral color gives decks and patios a clean, modern and sophisticated look. It also coordinates beautifully with common exterior accents like a slate-colored roof, white trim, or a black front door. Light decking colors will reflect the sun's rays and provide a cooler surface.
What is the best color for a deck in full sun?
TimberTech Advanced PVC decking is engineered to be cooler to the touch, even in direct sunlight. TimberTech Advanced PVC decking features advanced materials science in its core and cap that makes it more heat-resistant than other composite decking products.
What composite decking won't get hot?
Hot Decking
Composite decking absorbs and retains heat, especially when exposed to direct sunlight. The boards may take hours to cool down before you can walk on them comfortably without shoes. Besides preventing you from fully enjoying your investment, scorching deck boards can put children and pets at risk.
What is the disadvantage of composite decking?
All in all, modified wood outperforms composite decking in nearly all categories. Homeowners stuck between standard wood and composite would do well to opt for modified wood over either option.
Is there something better than composite decking?
So the surface temperature of the board may be higher but it will cool down a lot quicker and take a while to heat back up. PVC is a little hotter than your wood decking but significantly cooler than your composites.
What gets hotter PVC or composite decking?
Current estimates have the lifespan of modern composite decks at between 30-50 years, depending on how well they were installed, cared for, and maintained.
What is the average life of composite deck?
Abrasive substances can damage the composite deck surface, but salt is not coarse enough to damage the surface. However, we would still recommend you to rub or press the salt against composite decking. With little care and attention composite decks can last over long periods.
Is salt bad for composite decking?
On average, wood decking can last anywhere between 10 and 20 years — the caveat being that you'll need to keep up with a maintenance schedule to get there. Composite decking, on the other hand, typically lasts roughly 25 years or more with only a fraction of the routine upkeep of wood.
What is the lifespan of composite decking?
Depending on the brand, some composite decking materials are softer than wood. Due to this, using a power washer badly can cause the outer layer of the material to come off. Once this happens, your patio will be more susceptible to weather damage, mould, and chipping.
Is it OK to power wash a composite deck?
The Bottom Line
Resurfacing your wood deck with composite boards is an excellent choice, considering it's much more durable and low maintenance. But the lifespan of any deck depends on the structure underneath.
Should I replace my wood deck with composite?
This polymer coating is the main reason why composite decking doesn't rot. It's completely waterproof and prevents any kind of water from penetrating the boards. It also protects the boards and preserves the finish and colour, so you'll never need to sand, stain, or seal your composite deck boards.
Does composite decking rot from water?
Even in the event of snowy weather, composite decking is a fantastic surface that's built to withstand the frosty cold. Extremely hard-wearing, you can even fend of the snow and ice by using rock salt or calcium chloride without fears of damaging the decking surface beneath when the snow/ice melts.
Is composite decking bad in the winter?
While standing water can't harm your composite deck boards, it is still a good idea to remove the water for a couple of reasons: Water on deck boards can cause your deck surface to become a bit slick. Standing water can affect the vulnerable deck substructure which is made of traditional wood.
Does water damage composite decking?
Light-Colored Composite Deck Boards Are Better for Full Sun
That means decking colors with darker tones likely don't stay as cool when exposed to direct sunlight.
What is the best deck material for full sun?
But it's not invulnerable. Here are just three factors that contribute to the fading of a composite deck: UV rays: The sun's UV rays are one of the main culprits when it comes to fading. The more exposure your composite deck gets to direct sunlight, the faster fading occurs.
Will composite decking fade in the sun?
Whilst our composite decking is tough and durable, we'd still recommend adding felt or rubber feet to the bottom of your new furniture to prevent any scratches or marring (the marks caused by dragging heavy objects).
Can you put heavy furniture on composite decking?
Today, thanks to innovations from various manufacturers, modern composite decking doesn't get any hotter than wood. In fact, where modern composites are concerned, material isn't the biggest factor in temperature — color is.
Does composite decking get as hot as wood?
You have more than one option for your materials. You might think that it's standard just to build a wood, composite, or vinyl deck, but it turns out that you can combine your deck materials. It's common to mix composite decking with wood; here is how this combination could benefit you and how you can implement it.
Can you mix composite decking with wood?
Composite decking can absolutely be laid on pre-existing concrete. In fact, it's actually a fairly simple process and has many benefits when compared to laying it over other surfaces.
Can you attach composite decking directly to concrete?
Composite decking is a man-made synthetic mixture of 'wood flour' and plastics which are highly susceptible to mold. The finely ground 'wood flour' become a veritable Petri dish for mold. Mold gets into the crevices of composite decking and clings to the fine wood particles and has a very difficult time getting out.
Do composite decks get moldy?
Composite decks require minimal maintenance. They're built for long-lasting beauty and durability. But like any product that is exposed to the elements, mold, and mildew can begin to grow on your composite deck boards. This can be especially true if a box or planter is placed directly on the deck.
Does mold grow on composite decking?
Let's be honest composite decking is not 100% scratch proof, but it's very durable. Here's some tips on treating scratches and scuffs… NeoTimber® composite decking is a man-made product. It is designed to be durable and hard-wearing, resisting staining, scratching, warping and rotting.
Does composite decking damage easily?
Rotting vegetation and leaves that pile up can contribute to the growth of lichen and algae. The risk of this is not really noticeable when the weather is dry, but once it becomes wet, the decking can get very slippery.
Why is composite decking so slippery?
Let's be honest composite decking is not 100% scratch proof, but it's very durable. Here's some tips on treating scratches and scuffs… NeoTimber® composite decking is a man-made product. It is designed to be durable and hard-wearing, resisting staining, scratching, warping and rotting.
Does composite decking damage easily?
So, how long does a composite deck last? A minimum of 25 to 30 years, possibly lasting from 30 to 50 years. In addition to being the manufacturer-reported number, third-party testing can also help confirm the lifespan of a deck.
Does composite decking go bad?
Yes - but not much. Composite decking undergoes an initial weathering process after which the colour stabilizes. This is a result of UV exposure and natural wood oils, called tannins, being washed out.
What happens to composite decking over time?
Premium composite decking containing as little as 51% wood cellulose may withstand occasional salt exposure without issues. But cheaper grades with 70% or more wood fiber content are strongly advised against salting to avoid jeopardizing the deck.