How to Choose the Right Composite Decking for Your Deck

Building or replacing your deck is an exciting project, and composite decking has become a top choice for many homeowners. With its low maintenance, durability, and natural wood-like appearance, composite decking offers numerous benefits. However, not all composite boards are created equal. To make an informed decision, you need to understand the key differences in quality, design, and performance. Let’s dive in.

The Problem with "Cheaper" Composite Decking

When evaluating composite decking options, it’s important to understand the potential pitfalls of going with the cheapest choice. Composite boards are made from a blend of wood and plastic fibers, which are porous by nature. This porosity makes them susceptible to mold and mildew, especially in humid climates.

To combat this, high-quality composite boards are wrapped in a PVC (polyvinyl chloride) coating that seals out moisture. However, cheaper boards often cut corners by wrapping only three sides of the board, leaving the bottom exposed. This unprotected side is vulnerable to humidity and moisture, which can lead to mold growth over time.

For long-term durability and peace of mind, always opt for four-sided PVC-capped boards. This ensures every part of the board is sealed against moisture, making your deck more durable and lower maintenance.

Board Profiles: Scalloped vs. Full

Composite boards come in two main profiles: scalloped and full. The choice between them can significantly affect the cost, strength, and installation requirements of your deck.

• Full-Profile Boards: These are thick, solid boards that provide consistent material throughout. They are stronger and more stable, making them ideal for standard deck framing. While full-profile boards tend to be more expensive, they don’t require extra structural support, which can save on overall installation costs.

• Scalloped Boards: These boards are hollowed out on the underside, making them lighter and less expensive. However, the reduced material means they are less sturdy, requiring additional framing or closer joist spacing for proper support. This often negates the initial savings, making scalloped boards less cost-effective for many projects.

If you’re looking for strength and simplicity, full-profile boards are usually the better investment. Scalloped boards may seem budget-friendly, but the additional framing they require can make them more expensive in the long run.

Expansion and Contraction: What You Need to Know

Composite decking expands and contracts with changes in temperature. While this is a natural characteristic of the material, it’s important to account for it during installation to avoid long-term issues like buckling or warping.

• Gaps Are Inevitable: Expansion and contraction will cause slight gaps between boards, especially in climates with extreme temperature fluctuations. While these gaps can’t be completely eliminated, they can be minimized with proper installation.

• Allow for Spacing: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for board spacing to accommodate temperature changes. Proper gaps between boards and at the ends are essential to allow for this natural movement.

• Choose Quality Boards: Higher-end composite decking options are engineered to reduce the amount of expansion and contraction compared to budget alternatives. This can make your deck look better and perform more consistently over time.

By planning for expansion and contraction, you can ensure a longer-lasting and better-looking deck, even in challenging weather conditions.

Heat Retention: Staying Comfortable in the Sun

One of the downsides of composite decking is its tendency to retain heat, especially in direct sunlight. Darker colors and lower-quality composites are more prone to becoming uncomfortably hot, making the surface difficult to walk on barefoot.

Here’s how to address this issue:

• Light Colors: Lighter-colored boards reflect more sunlight, keeping them cooler underfoot.

• Premium Heat-Resistant Boards: High-end composite options, such as certain lines from TimberTech and Trex, are designed with advanced heat-resistant technology to stay cooler in the sun. These boards may cost more upfront, but the added comfort is worth it if your deck is in full sun.

If your deck will be exposed to a lot of sunlight, investing in heat-resistant composite boards can make a significant difference in your comfort.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right composite decking involves more than picking a color and finish. Consider factors like mold resistance, board profile, expansion and contraction, and heat retention when making your decision. While budget-friendly options like Trex can work for some projects, premium brands like TimberTech offer the best combination of beauty, durability, and innovative features.

When it comes to your deck, cutting corners can lead to long-term headaches. Spending a little more upfront on quality materials and proper installation will ensure your outdoor space remains beautiful and functional for years to come. Your deck is an investment—choose wisely to enjoy it to the fullest.