Questions to Ask Your Installation Professional

Whether you’re having a composite deck installed or building one yourself, it’s important to understand what you’re buying. Because wood-plastic composites are a relatively new construction material, many people aren’t sure what to look for. Here are some questions you should ask before buying a composite deck:

What type of warranty is available?
Most composite decks will come with some type of warranty. A 10- to 20-year guarantee on the materials is common. In more rare cases, a lifetime warranty may be available. Find out what problems are covered under the warranty, such as termite damage, checking and splintering. You should also be aware of what types of actions can void your warranty.

How will the decking be fastened?
Deck boards are typically fastened to the framework using nails or screws, which penetrate the plastic casing of your composite deck boards and can expose the wood fibers to moisture damage. It can also cause cracks or splitting around the nail or screw. Alternatively, some contractors offer a less invasive installation method that uses hidden deck clips to fasten the boards to the frame. This not only eliminates the potential for damage from nails and screws, but it results in a more uniform deck surface. Most contractors will charge an additional fee for using deck clips.

Is the composite decking hollow or solid?
Composite deck boards can be made either hollow or solid. Hollow decks weigh less and appear more artificial. Because of their lower density, they are more prone to damage before installation, but they are also less susceptible to expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes. Solid composite decks appear more wood-like and are heavier; although they are less prone to pre-installation damage, they are also more likely to expand and contract with changes in temperature.

Does the composite lumber contain protection against slipping?
The plastic in composite decking can cause it to become slippery when it gets wet or mildewed. Some brands, however, come with a non-skid finish for additional safety.

What kind of plastic is used?
There are three types of plastic typically used in composite decking: PVC, polypropylene and High Density PolyEthylene (HDPE). Decks made out of recycled materials often contain HDPE, and polypropylene is sometimes included for additional strength. While virgin PVC is usually stronger than recycled plastic, it is more susceptible to weathering than HDPE and doesn’t have the same environmental benefits.

How much will the composite decking material fade?
When exposed to sunlight, most composite decks will eventually fade. That’s because the sawdust in the composite material contains lignin, which contributes to fading. To combat this, manufacturers often include UV protectants in the decking material. The amount of protection included, and the amount of fading you can expect, can vary between different brands.

How can I get the most life out of my deck?
Because composite decking can vary so much between brands, it’s a good idea to ask your contractor for specific care tips based on the type of deck you’re buying.