When it comes to enhancing your outdoor living space, composite decking is a fantastic option thanks to its durability, low maintenance, and versatility. However, with so many choices on the market, selecting the right composite decking can feel overwhelming. To ensure you make a smart investment, here are some essential tips to guide you through the process.
Research the Brand’s History First
Before you buy, take a step back and research the brand you’re considering. In the early days of composite decking, the industry saw a surge of new companies promising great warranties and innovative products. Unfortunately, many of these brands encountered significant product issues and went bankrupt, leaving homeowners with no recourse when their decks failed.
To avoid this fate, opt for brands with a long-established track record of quality and reliability. AdvantageLumber.com, for instance, carries four trusted names: Trex, TimberTech, Deckorators, and TanDeck. These brands have stood the test of time, offering peace of mind that your investment is backed by a company that’s here to stay.
Factor in Your Deck’s Location
The environment where your deck will be built is a critical consideration when choosing composite decking. Ask yourself: Will it be near water, such as a lake, river, or pool? Is it low to the ground, where airflow might be restricted? Or is it in a wildfire-prone area, where fire resistance could be a priority? These factors can significantly impact the performance and longevity of your decking material. By evaluating your specific conditions upfront, you can select a product designed to handle the unique challenges of your location.
Don’t Know What to Pick?
Let the experts at AdvantageLumber.com help you decide what composite decking material will work best for your project. Many of the experts at AdvantageLumber.com have years of experience consulting on some of the most complex projects to simple backyard decks. It doesn’t matter the size or complexity of your project our experts are one phone call or email away from helping you choose which composite decking is right for your project.
Explore Budget-Friendly Scalloped Boards
For homeowners seeking a low-maintenance composite deck without breaking the bank, Trex and TimberTech offer scalloped boards as an affordable option. These boards are designed with a grooved underside, using less material than solid boards, which makes them more budget-friendly.
However, this cost-saving design comes with a trade-off: scalloped boards aren’t as rigid as their solid counterparts. Some homeowners have noticed slight sagging between joists when using these boards. To counter this, consider tightening your deck framing to 12 inches on center instead of the standard 16 inches. This adjustment provides extra support and helps ensure a sturdy, long-lasting deck.
Choose Colors Wisely
Color selection is about more than just matching your home’s aesthetic—it also affects functionality. Most composite decking can heat up significantly under direct sunlight, even with heat mitigation technology, which is often found in higher-end product lines.
This is an important factor if you enjoy walking barefoot on your deck or have kids and pets who’ll be playing on it. Darker colors tend to absorb more heat, making them hotter to the touch, while lighter shades reflect sunlight and stay cooler. So, while that deep charcoal finish might look stunning, a lighter hue could be a more practical choice for comfort.
Dig into the Warranty Details
Finally, don’t overlook the warranty before making your purchase. Most composite decking manufacturers offer warranties ranging from 25 to 50 years, but the fine print matters. These warranties are typically prorated and don’t cover labor costs, which can be substantial if you’re hiring a contractor for installation or repairs.
One standout exception is Deckorators Surestone decking, which offers a unique warranty covering labor for both the removal of failed material and its replacement. To our knowledge, it’s the only composite decking with this level of protection, providing unmatched security if issues arise down the line.
By researching brand history, considering your deck’s environment, exploring budget-friendly options, choosing the right color, and understanding warranty coverage, you’ll be well-equipped to select the best composite decking for your home. With the right choice, your deck can become a beautiful, functional outdoor space you’ll enjoy for decades to come.