A long-lasting, gorgeous, and environmentally responsible decking material is a composite deck. It has advanced significantly in both appearance and technology since it first appeared on the market in the 1990s. It’s difficult to know what to buy and what to avoid because there are more manufacturers and options accessible than ever before.
Installing composite decking is as follows:
A range of composites
Composites come in a wide range of compositions and qualities. Most are made of a combination of reclaimed wood fibers and recycled plastic. They come in varieties that are completely capped, partially capped, or not at all capped. Some commercial “composites” have no wood fibers at all.
What it all means is this:
Composites without caps
The boards have the appearance of a standard wood plank and are made of a mixture of wood fibers and plastic. It is not feasible to produce a non-capped composite that aesthetically resembles real wood due to the production process.
The initial varieties of decking boards’ plastic wood look weren’t capped. However, due to warping concerns and technological advancements, this style has mainly been taken out of the market. For further information, see our article on how composite decking has changed.
Uncapped composite variants are still available from several manufacturers, including MoistureShield and TimberTech. They typically cost less and come with a more limited fade and stain warranty.
Composites with caps
The capping technique was created by manufacturers to address the problems with the initial decking boards’ plastic wood look versions. In comparison to non-capped materials, this type features a composite core with a strong PVC outer coating on 1-3 sides that protects against stains, fading, scratches, and warping.
Other capped composites have PVC material wrapped around each of their four edges, providing a more thorough defense against water intrusion, pests, and warping. For further protection, some, like those made by TimberTech, have PVC capping even in the grooved fastener notches.
PVC planks for terrace
There are no materials combined in this category of composite. Pure pvc dielen für terrasse composites, like Azek Planks, don’t include any wood fibers; instead, they’re made of high-grade plastics that appear just like wood.
PVC planks for terraces perform far better in terms of heat dissipation, fire resistance, and scratch resistance than their partially organic counterparts. They are perfect for roof decks because of their exceptional lightness. This material was created through testing and technology, making it strong enough to be covered by lifetime warranties against flaws, termites, and rot in addition to a 30-year fade and stain warranty.
COMPOSITE BOARDS’ SHAPES
Composite decking comes in a range of sizes and shapes, just like wooden decking. Each style has particular advantages and disadvantages to think about:
Solid Form
Solid composite decking has a rectangular form and most closely resembles a conventional wood panel. Like with wood, it is mounted by screwing through the top. Although it has excellent stiffness, it may be heavier than other types of composite.
Slotted Design
Although it has a slot cut into either side to be used with a hidden fastening mechanism, it is otherwise identical to a solid composite. The PVC cap is kept intact for protection by using hidden fasteners, which also create a lovely deck surface without screw holes. Due to certain manufacturers’ failure to cover the notch with a protective PVC cap, it is more susceptible to being penetrated by insects and water.
Rigged Form
This board only has one functional side because the underside has been taken off to save weight and money.
A hollow form
Obviously plastic, but much lighter than comparable composite boards. End caps are intended to prevent insects and other tiny creatures from building their nests in the crevices.
SELECTING A COLOR
The choice of color is the most emotive, even though it is not the most important one. There are many different colors available from each manufacturer. You may feel secure in your choice and select the style and price that best meets your demands as long as you’re selecting from reputable manufacturers like TimberTech, Azek, or Trex. You may choose the ideal color scheme by first considering how you want your room to work. Consider the following when thinking about colors:
- Are you extending your interior space into this area?
- Do you want the deck’s color to harmonize with the surroundings?
- Will your railing coordinate with the house’s trim or general design?
Construction of WPC decks
Deck construction is a typical DIY job. However, it’s best left to a qualified deck builder or carpenter given the expense and technical requirements of composite deck construction.
Here are a few things to think about when building a composite deck:
Permits for Composite Decks
Find out if a building permit is necessary for your deck project before you get started. If you want to know if you need a permit to build a deck in metro Vancouver, check out our blog.
Joists for composite decks
A composite deck requires different framing than a wooden deck. To prevent bowing or warping when heated by the sun, the plastic components of terrassendielen kunststoff holzoptik need to be strictly supported. When running boards are angled at a 45-degree angle, the required joist span is 12-inches in the center rather than the standard 16-inches in the center. Additionally, a warranty of at least 20 years is frequently included with composite decking. Before installing composite boards, reputable professionals wrap hardwood joists in a UV-treated waterproofing coating to considerably lengthen their lifespan.
Usefulness
Consider a water management system like TimberTech’s Dryspace if you want dry space below your deck for outdoor living or storage. Aesthetics come into play if you are building an outdoor living area below. How should the bottom of your framing look? Soffit installation is not necessary because the Dryspace system attaches to the bottom of the joist and provides a completed surface.
You’re not alone
When selecting composite decking, avoid being underprepared or overwhelmed. A professional deck builder with years of expertise installing decking boards and plastic wood look in Vancouver is Citywide Sundecks and Railings. We’ve investigated the greatest suppliers, and we’ll help you choose the right deck for your house.
