Composite decking is increasingly becoming very much popular among almost all homeowners in the current setup of beautifying outdoor spaces using sustainable and glamorous exterior building materials. This makes it very flexible in looking like wood but strong like a synthetic material.
Still, it is possible that mistakes may arise during at different levels of improvement in the house. And that is where knowing and understanding the mistakes commonly occurring with decking comes to save you in correctly making your deck functional yet long-lasting.
In this blog, we are going to take you through the common mistakes that come with composite decking and provide tips on how to avoid them.
1. Go For the Wrong Type of Composite Decking.
Different types of composite decking vary in materials and finishes. Buying new types of composites may lead to problems: weakening durability or maintenance. Warranties, finishes, and even slip resistance differ according to brands and styles. Therefore, make sure to buy a product that meets your requirements.
Before purchasing composite decking, research thoroughly about the types and available brands. Most importantly, consider the factors that matter in buying composite decking like the climate (if the decking will perform well in bad weather), slip resistance (if children or pets are involved), and warranty of the product. It is also good to visit showrooms to compare samples in finishes by bringing some home to check them out.
2. Poor Planning and Measurement Errors
Poor planning and making incorrect measurements are the two most common errors made during composite deck installation. Once a poorly planned deck is built, it can lead to wastage of materials, wrong cuts, and an end product that does not fit in the area for which it was designed.
Start taking accurate measurements of the area where you will put the deck. Confirm your measurements two to three times before you buy materials, taking into consideration your deck stairs, raised areas, railings, and other supports. You may wish to hire a professional deck designer or installer, particularly if you have doubts about your planning and layout measuring skills.
3. The next reason is the incorrect installation of joists and supports.
Joists are the framework that holds up your deck, so if you don't install them correctly, the deck will become unstable and could even become dangerous. Lack of correct spacing between joists will weaken the deck structure, allowing the composite decking to warp and sag.
The joists should be spaced in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. It is common practice to space joists 12 to 16 inches apart although this can depend on the kind of decking that you are using for installation. Make sure that they are level and properly secured. If you think you need assistance, consult a professional.
4. Not Leaving Proper Gaps for Expansion
Composite decking has a tendency to expand and contract with temperature variations. If decking boards are installed too close to each other, then it may buckle or warp due to expansion, resulting in expensive repairs later on.
You should always leave a gap as specified between your decking boards when installing them. In most cases, it is around 1/8 to 1/4 inches, but confirm with instructions from the manufacturer for the precise gap. That way, the boards can move and breathe without damage to the deck.
5. Not Considering Drainage and Ventilation
Poor drainage and lack of ventilation result in accumulation of water below the deck, resulting in mould growth, mildew conditions, and deterioration of the composite materials. In case of humid weather conditions, having a big gap will also help in air circulation.
Proper drainage has to be provided beneath the deck so that the water drains naturally away from the building. Ventilation systems under your deck could save you moisture development. In addition, try to keep things from being heaped up or stocked underneath the deck since they may impede airflow.
6. Improper Cleaning and Maintenance
Composite decking is really a low-maintenance thing, but not a no-maintenance thing. This is because not cleaning properly or not using any severe chemical would result in a discolouration from stains or even dull appearance after some time.
Usually clean with sweeps or leaves blowers from time to time, then for more difficult cleaning needs perhaps a light soap solution and scrub brush can do the job. Power washers can also damage the surface when used at high settings, so they should be avoided. Also, always follow the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines and perform whatsoever touch-ups as recommended.
And it is also checking the bushfire ratings.
Composite decking materials that do not resist fire present quite high risks for people who live in an area prone to bushfires. While there are composite decking options rated for fire resistance, some do not feature it in their offerings.
Learn about fire ratings, and ensure that you check with the material for its capability to withstand fire in your specific climate regulations. You may want to check around for fire safety codes in your area when it comes to approval of such products and seek help from your supplier or contractor even if you aren't sure about fire resistance of a particular write-up in question.
Conclusion
Despite the multiple advantages composite decking provides when creating a beautiful outdoor area, one must be careful not to commit silly mistakes while planning, purchasing and installing it.
Such errors include using incorrect materials, the wrong measurements, improper installation, and inadequate maintenance. With careful attention to each of these parameters, the individual is in a position to enjoy outdoor living for many years. Investing a little extra time and effort in a composite project will result in a beautiful and a fully-functioning deck for many years into the future.
