Choosing the Right Material for Your Composite Decking Project

composite decking

A composite deck can be a great addition to any home, but it’s important to find the right material for your project. GVD Renovations recommends choosing a brand that prioritizes sustainability, offers additional outdoor living products, and provides a variety of colors and textures.

First, homeowners should know whether their deck will require a permit. If so, they should work with the installer to ensure they obtain the necessary paperwork.

Durability

While wood decks require annual staining and sanding, composite boards stay looking beautiful without the upkeep. Their durability and resistance to rot make them a good choice for high-traffic areas.

Despite its durability, composite decking can get moldy and mildewy if not cleaned properly. Homeowners should use a mild soap and water solution to clean their composite decks. It’s also a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s directions on cleaning chemicals.

Homeowners should carefully consider the color of their composite deck before installation. This is because composite products are permanently colored, and they cannot be changed easily. Dark colors can fade over time due to the sun’s UV rays. This can be minimized by regularly applying a waterproof sealant to the decking surface. A waterproof sealant will also prevent stains from water, food and oil spills.

Easy maintenance

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a deck material is how easy it will be to keep clean. Wood can be difficult to maintain, but composites are designed with ease of cleaning and maintenance in mind. They don’t require sanding or annual sealing, and most are resistant to mold, mildew, and staining.

Composites can be cleaned with a basic soap and water mixture. However, if you encounter tough stains, it is important to check with the manufacturer of your composite deck for an approved list of stronger cleaners. This will ensure you don’t damage or void your warranty.

Composites are also very easy to sweep, and they can be scrubbed with a brush to get into the grooves. Unlike wood, composites won’t rot or splinter.

Variety of colors and textures

Composite decks can be customized with a wide variety of options to create an inviting space for homeowners, friends, and family to barbecue, eat, play, and relax. It’s also an excellent option for eco-friendly homeowners looking for a low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood decks.

Choosing the right color can make your composite deck feel like an extension of your home. Taking into account the color of your house, trim, and shutters can help you narrow down your choices.

If you’re not sure what shade is best for your deck, ask a retailer to mail you samples so that you can see the colors in person. They may also be able to tell you what colors tend to work well with each other and complement your home’s exterior.

Fire resistance

In many areas, it is required that new decks be built with fire-resistant materials. This is especially true for homes in wildfire prone zones. The reason for this is that the deck can serve as a bridge from a wildfire to your house, and in some cases it can actually cause a home to burn.

Choosing a composite material with a Class A fire rating will buy you more time to safely exit your home during a wildfire. These products are tested to ensure they don’t spread flames or ignite after a fire has been started, and they typically meet the requirements of state and local codes.

For extra protection, add metal flashing between the deck and the house’s combustible siding. This is a simple, inexpensive fire safety upgrade.

Low maintenance

Unlike wood decks, composites don’t need to be stained or sealed. They can usually be cleaned simply using soapy water and a brush or, for an extreme build-up, a power washer with a wide nozzle setting. Harsh chemicals (particularly bleach, which is often labelled as sodium hypochlorite) should never be used, as they can eat away at the material, causing discoloration and worsening any existing mildew or mold problems.

Wiping spills as soon as they occur will also help prevent staining, especially from foods like oils and wine that can cause stains if left for long periods of time. Many manufacturers offer their own instructions and recommendations on cleaning and maintenance, so be sure to follow them. Keeping your deck clean will allow you to spend more time relaxing and enjoying it.



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