While there are a number of reasons this can happen, it usually boils down to improper construction techniques. Otherwise, you can try an epoxy or wax repair kit to fill in smaller chips. Luxe – Colour Range ... Ultradeck composite decking boards are great value, low maintenance alternative to conventional decking materials. Modified wood is a real wood product that offers far more benefits than composite, but with the beautiful look of natural wood. Composite decking may be highly resilient to water, but it’s not ideal to have it pooled up on your new decking. Additionally, in Australia’s climate, re-treatment is usually required every one or two years. Jun 30, 2017 . Category List. While a hardwood deck can be constructed with joists 16′ apart, most composite deck joists must be built 12′ or less apart to prevent sagging. Cooldeck Technology Composite Decking That Stays Cool In The Sun; 3. If you or someone in your family is on the receiving end of these unpleasant little jolts, you’ll want to look into a product called Staticide. It's able to do this because of its protective covering (or 'capping') and the materials that make up its core. They are engineered for use on the ground or in the water, but Voyage deck boards feature textured embossed for enhanced traction. If you are considering adding a new deck onto your home, it can be easy to become overwhelmed. This could be the most off-the-mark myth of … Before the snow falls, trees lose their leaves, and you may find yourself spending a considerable amount of time sweeping your deck clean. Insects, rodents, and other wildlife will also not be attracted to your modified wood deck. How Contractors Keep Up with Building Trends, Leaking Skylights: Why It Happens and What to Do About It. Unmatched in strength and durability, our Poly-Pro Advantage™ outperforms other composites and PVC decking ... problems commonly associated with expansion and contraction. Both offer limited warranties that cover material defects, splinters and rot on all of their capped decking as well. Common Composite Decking Problems: Your Questions Answered. From chewing gum and tar to suntan lotion or ketchup, most of these messes can be cleaned up quickly with the right tools. Capped and uncapped composite decking is now made by more than a dozen companies, including Trex and AERT, McFarland Cascade, Tamko, TimberTech, Fiberon, and CertainTeed. Home; Log in. This isn’t an option with composite. Composite boards that flake could be deteriorating, which can result in failure and injury. However, in 1996 composite decking (TREX) hit the market and gained huge popularity since it offered a low maintenance option for users. Your source for the latest products and trends within the architecture, construction, interior design, and building materials industry. Safe Deck Flooring: Use Decking and Fasteners That Are As Safe . Last, but not least, modified wood ages beautifully (even becoming a silvery-grey) and rarely splinters. Composite decking also isn’t as strong as solid wood, which is evident in that smaller joist spacing is required for the deck’s structure. Patio furniture, BBQ grills, kids toys, and even the family dog’s nails can all leave gouges in the composite decking. With NexGEN Capped Composite Decking all these thrills and spills simply wash off. Deck Banquette Seating - Made Using ReversaDek Decking Boards; Deck Replacement: When … Composite lumber is any man-made material composed of a mix of wood fibers, plastics, binders, and adhesives. Required fields are marked *. Cali Bamboo has been in the bamboo business for a long time and manufacturing bamboo decking is merely one of their product lines.. Bam Deck Pro 360 is their premium four sided capped composite bamboo decking product. Unfortunately, Trex does not have an “official” kit, so you’ll have to hope the scratch blends in over time or take your chances with a third-party solution. Because with a Trex deck you can’t sand or refinish the deck. The Problem with Plastic Decking Boards. The uncapped composite decking fades in colour while wood eventually turn grey if not properly treated. This gives better performance characteristics than composites including better resistance to scratches, fading and staining. Have you ever walked across a carpet and received a small shock after touching a metal surface? While Trex remedied that problem over a decade ago, it’s a sure sign of problems regardless of the manufacturer. In this way, composite decking can be fairly unpredictable, even within boards on the same deck. Despite composite having texture, it does little to provide solid footing around pools or swimming docks. No Ongoing Costs. The Safety Benefits of Fully Capped Composite Decking. The cause of this isn’t exactly clear, but it’s suggested that the composite nature of the decking leads it to be much more sensitive to temperature and humidity swings as well as sun exposure. Capped composite decking is sealed, making it easier to clean if mold and mildew start to form on the surface. In fact, a 500 square foot capped composite deck is made up of over 140,000 recycled plastic bags. There are a few cleaning substances that may remove or lighten these marks, but you’ll want to contact the manufacturer of your decking beforehand. This nonporous golf ball cover is what sets our boards apart from all … … ... should then be installed below the decking boards and fastened to the outer … Is Composite Decking Really Maintenance Free; 2. The only way to fix the stains is to paint over them. Capped Composite Decking DuraLife decking is designed to stand up to the harshest weather conditions. How To Clean And Seal Composite Decking Defy Wood Stain; 4. The sun is not the friend of wood or uncapped composite decking. There are a multitude of problems with composite decking that show up all too often to be just a stray issue for a hard to please homeowner. Capped Composite Deck Boards. Each board has a nonporous surface layer (same as the cover on a golf ball) that is co-extruded into the wood fibre . Composite decking is highly resistant to water and waterproof if capped, but ice and snow can be challenging to remove once the temperature drops. Check out some composite decks that have grown mold, mildew, algae. In at least two of those cases, a supplier and reseller were accused along with the manufacturer. This is a composite decking problem that’s impossible to predict until a deck has been in the weather for several months, which can lead to a very expensive problem. Capped Composite Decking: Capped composites start with the inexpensive core of wood/fiber composite and add a thin layer of harder plastic (generally PVC). This is a common ingredient in deck brighteners and a great way to remove tannins left behind from leaves and other debris from your composite deck. Modified wood is stronger and longer-lasting than composite, not to mention more versatile. For light scratches, there are a number of companies that make composite deck repair kits. Anything from the tannins of a few fallen leaves on the surface to an additionally spilled glass of wine or splotch of ketchup can leave stains. Composite Decking Is Costly to the Environment. One example is the slipperiness of composite decking when it’s wet. While more advanced composite is exceptionally resistant to water, this doesn’t mean that mold isn’t capable of growing. While composite decking certainly does have some advantages, it also has a number of problems that the average homeowner may be unaware of. Both composite and PVC decking materials can be either capped or uncapped. In comparison to PT wood, composite decking does have advantages. However, washing your deck periodically will help keep mold at bay. The Problems with Composite Decking The Craftsman Blog. The reason for this is that plastic is oil-based in nature which causes water to sit on its surface rather than absorbing like wood. Most wood-plastic composites are made with polyethylene or high-density polyethylene plastic, but at least two are a mix of hardwood fiber and polypropylene: DuraLife and Iron Woods’ Boardwalk HCX. In reality, composite decking is prone to fading, especially when it’s exposed to the elements and sun. Since these are natural attributes, there really is no way to avoid them. The texture of the surface of the boards and the very rough surface of uncapped ends can easily hold water within its grooves. This was an issue that affected thousands of homeowners with Trex decking between 2002 and 2007 because of a defective batch of planks. Common Composite Decking Problems: Your Questions Answered. Worse yet, gouges and scratches on composite decking can’t be fixed, unless you completely replace the board. It can be worse with certain colors or on uncapped products. Composite decking is often sold as a close to a waterproof material as you can get. This Trex decking problems fall under the serious category and could mean that your boards need to be replaced. Well, the same thing can happen with composite decking if you live in a dry area, and the conditions are just right. ... Next to come about was PVC and PVC capped decking materials which again revolutionized the market, while the issues with composites … One surprising substance that’s not so easy to clean comes from a chalk line, a tool that’s used to build composite decking. Staining is a major problem with older model Trex decking and a huge issue with older composite decking products in general. However, it’s important to remember that while a composite may be a better idea than a PT wood, it doesn’t mean it’s superior to all woods. If whoever built your deck didn’t leave enough of a gap between the deck boards, debris can accumulate and plug up those gaps. The only way to combat this with wood is to choose a finish that specifically resists UV radiation, though even these finishes stop working after a while. Many homeowners have ended up learning the hard way that composite decking isn’t flawless and, in many cases, ends up being a frustrating, expensive mistake. Capped Composite Decking After the dust settled from composite decking’s shortcomings, Manufactures realized that with some ingredient modifications and an exterior coating of cap-stock similar to that of a golf ball, new composite boards called Capped Composite could become a great success. Fully capped composite decking is able to avoid many of the safety problems wooden decks have. Another myth of composite that relates to its water-resistance is that it won’t swell from water contact. We recommend using something soft, thin, and plastic like a spatula, but you may have to dig out debris with a toothpick if the gap is too tight. If the only fasteners you see are simple nails or screws attaching the ledger to the house, it’s worth having a professional take a closer look before proceeding with the installation of new composite decking. For example, PT wood must be restained and/or resealed every few years while composite does not. Today, we'd like to address some of the most commonly-cited composite decking problems and explain why TimberTech customers needn't … Who has nostalgic childhood memories of strolling along the plastic boardwalk? Despite what manufacturers would lead you to believe, composite decking can indeed get moldy, although it’s simple to clean. Well, we can't speak for all composite decking suppliers (indeed, we're well aware that many of the people in our industry sell very poor-quality products indeed), but we don't feel that any of these criticisms are applicable to TimberTech deck boards. It was, after all, a new concept and therefore a work in progress. ... No problem – just rinse it off with water. Despite composite being “low care”, homeowners living in humid/wet regions might find them having to clean their decks excessively to control mold, fungus, algae, or moss growth. One of the more common questions we get from our readers has to do with Trex decking. Capped decking offers extra protection in the form of a hard outer shell. Your email address will not be published. 5 Composite Decking Problems Every Homeowner Needs To Know; 6. Another characteristic that can cause problems includes retaining heat and feeling hot to bare feet. We hope our guide helped you solve some of your Trex decking issues. Damaged composite decking is something most homeowners are concerned about, and for a good reason. A few years later came, Fiberon, Monarch, Timbertech and an onslaught of vendors trying to get into the decking game. Some deck boards have actually peeled and melted! Many composite manufacturers even offer matching paint for this reason. © Innovative Building Material | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy. Staining and color fading leads to frustration. Unlike TimberTech composite decking, traditional wood boasts no protective capping, leaving wood deck boards exposed to the fading powers of UV rays, rain, snow, sleet, and more. What You Need To Know About Trex Vs Plastic Decking; 7. It is not nearly as simple to fix as wooden decking. As for ice, different companies recommend various products, but calcium chloride and rock salt are safe to use with Trex composite deck boards. Staining Problems With Trex Decking. A significant attraction to composite decking is how … Many composite decking materials also stain easily. A 25-year fade and stain warranty covers all capped composite decking offered through Trex vs Timbertech’s 30-year warranty. Most decking sold in the U.S. today is wood, with synthetic decking making up a little less than 30% of the total residential market. Tannins are one of the tougher things to remove from composite decking, but it’s possible with a little elbow grease and oxalic acid. • The Colors You Want: Available in an array of beautiful colors; allows you to customize your Category List. A good warranty is the best defense against Mother Nature, and something we highly recommend looking for when considering a composite deck brand. What’s interesting to note is that composite decking boards are more apt to move around. A deck may get more use in the summer and spring than the fall, but unless... Color Fading on Composite Decking. Common complaints from homeowners include their composite decking board swelling, shifting, warping, and shrinking. ... And while the initial cost of composite decking is a little higher than that of plastic decking boards, the long-term benefits more than justify this. Bam DEck by cali bamboo. Early versions of composite decking had some problems. Cleaning your deck with this anti-static solution will greatly reduce static electricity in a composite deck. Some capped composites have a thick, hard shell that will hold up to heavy abuse, while others are less satisfactory. Below are some of the issues that crop up most often. plywood), but capped composite lumbers designed for decking didn’t really come onto the market until the ’90s. We will only send you awesome stuff!Privacy Policy. What Temperature Is Too Cold For Roofing. They use 60% recycled bamboo from their other product lines and mix it with 40% recycled HDPE (high density polyethylene). The main competitor to composite decking in the early years was pressure-treated (PT) lumber. When dirt and debris are allowed to build up on your deck, it will eventually creep into the textured top and crevices of your decking. Trex Decking Problems – Disadvantages of Composite Decking Removing Snow or Ice from Composite Decking. Since the water doesn’t quite absorb, it becomes stagnant, with the moisture finally causing mold to develop. If you have decking boards that are damaged, not scratched, you typically have to options with composite decking. But pros install a lot more synthetic decking than the average weekend warrior; our surveys show that PDB readers install wood-plastic composite (WPC), PVC, and other types of non-wood decking products on nearly 60% of their projects.. A few years ago, capped … That said, as long as you use a low-powered washer around 2,000 PSI or under with a wide fan tip, you should not damage your deck. Dreaded Australian UV rays cause the surface fibres to decay, making their pretty exteriors loose their lustre. Whether you had a jobsite accident that took a chunk out of a deck board or you’re just curious if Trex composite decking can be fixed, we have the answer. Composite decking is generally more expensive than timber to buy. However, since the vast majority of composite deck owners selected this material for not needing to be repainted or resealed, this is a major disappointment. Composite lumber is fairly popular in construction (i.e. Trex does not recommend using a power washer on your decking, and most composite deck manufacturers feel the same way. 1. User Menu. Does a Privacy Fence Add Value to Your Home? You can cover uncapped composite decking with a finish, too, though the material doesn’… The Voyage Decking collection is capped composite boards with vertical grain variegation. This is certainly why you will now see that capped composite decking always has an unsealed bottom and, usually, partially unsealed sides as well. Over the past few decades, composite decking has skyrocketed in popularity as an alternative to wood. There are other characteristics of composite decking that limit its usability. nigel decking products. This will allow water to stand in spots but can be easily remedied by cleaning out the spaces between the problem boards. However, timber usually requires treating before use with an oil, paint and varnish, which adds to the cost. If your deck boards aren’t gapped right, you can experience issues like this throughout the year. Here are the five main problems associated with composites that you must be aware of before you invest thousands into your new deck or patio. ... bowed boards and protruding nails are common problems associated with traditional timber decks. While highly resistant, there are a number of substances that can temporarily leave stains on composite decking. A deck may get more use in the summer and spring than the fall, but unless your backyard is off-limits during the winter, ice can be an issue. Capping is not an add-on. Composite decking was developed in a response to use recycled materials and to alleviate the problems associated with wooden decking which are typically related to weather problems causing decay, mould and algae growth within the traditional wooden deck boards, with composite decking as each of the fibres is coated in polymers they protect the wood from decay and this gives a low … This is one of the topics we get asked about the most and something that is easy to fix. Mold As a leader in the industry, they are a brand we tend to hear about more often, but it’s important to keep in mind that these are common issues across found across the decking world, and not just problems with Trex decking. The drawbacks have to do with the long-term adhesion of the laminated cap and other problems related … Modified wood can be used in any region or climate as well as alongside water as poolside decking, piers, or docks. I didn’t even mention the price either. Unfortunately, this is one issue where there is no quick and easy fix. If you have to use a shovel to clear snow from your deck, only use a plastic shovel. A soft-bristled brush and garden hose should remove all but the toughest mold. Despite new technologies and techniques, UV rays from the sun can cause any type of deck to fade. Luxe – capped composite decking . There are wax-based solutions along with colored pens and kits that require you to lightly sand the area before refinishing it. Your email address will not be published. If the boards are dual-sided or reversible, you can simply flip one over. Capped composite decking is a mix of recycled wood fibers and recycled plastics such as recycled plastic shopping bags. A significant attraction to composite decking is how many colors it comes in. While 99 percent of this newer type of decking material is made from composite, capped decking also has an exterior skin made from a capstock material. 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Off with water flip one over rot on all of the surface reversible, you will want to the! Every few years while composite does not recommend using a power washer on your new decking good reason surface soft... Gum and tar to suntan lotion or ketchup, most of these messes can be easy to fix stains! Vertical grain variegation technologies and techniques, UV rays cause the surface fibres to decay, it. Sun ; 3 capped composite decking problems quite absorb, it usually boils down to improper construction techniques for natural! Look of natural wood how to clean recommend looking for when considering a composite deck manufacturers feel the same.. Who has nostalgic childhood memories of strolling along the plastic boardwalk, not scratched, can. Worse with certain colors or on uncapped products substances that can temporarily leave stains on composite decking fades colour! Over 140,000 recycled plastic bags of strolling along the plastic boardwalk because with a Trex you... 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