Do you need a frame for composite decking?

If you plan to use a long-lasting composite decking, you'll want a frame that can last as long as well. For composite decking, at least a pressure-treated frame is necessary. However, if you want added durability, you can also find composite decking wood for framing.

What framing is needed for composite decking?

Trex Decking can be installed on one of three options green pressure-treated lumber, kdat lumber or steel framing.

Do you need joists for composite decking?

Most composite and PVC decking brands, like Trex and Azek, recommend a maximum joist spacing of 16 inches OC. Some brands, like WearDeck, let you get away with more – reinforced with a layer of fiberglass on both the top and bottom, WearDeck boards easily allow for spans of 24 inches OC.

Can you just screw composite decking?

You can screw or nail composite decking boards just like wood ones. Three-inch decking screws are the best fastener choice; they sink a secure distance into the joists and won't back out like nails. There's little danger of splitting the boards when driving them, so you don't need to pre-drill.

Do you leave a gap between composite deck boards?

One of the most critical steps for properly securing composite decking in place is to make sure you have a 1/4-inch to 3/16-inch gap between the decking boards (don't exceed 1/2 inch).

How to Picture Frame A Deck | Composite Decking Border

Should I pre drill composite decking?

The answer is yes for a solid composite decking (must be pre-drill and must check with manufacture). You can not drill or screw through a hollow composite deck as the screw will become loose and rise in time . Like the usual wooden decking boards, you can also screw down a solid composite decking.

Can you put composite decking on wooden joists?

In short, yes you can. You are more than capable of placing composite deck boards over existing wooden ones in order to save time and money from building an entirely new frame.

What is the best base for composite decking?

However, you will need a good base for the composite decking. Many use concrete flooring and concrete slabs for an even and stable base. Some also use adjustable pedestals. Using pressure-treated wood or composites will make a strong and durable frame.

How far apart do joists need to be for composite decking?

Most composite decking materials, like Trex, AZEK, TimberTech and Fiberon composite decking, require minimum joist spacing for composite decking at 16″ on-center spacing for straight decking and 12″ on-center joist spacing for 45-degree angle diagonal decking.

Can you put composite decking on the ground?

In short, yes! Composite Decking can be laid on concrete AS LONG as you have the correct subframe to do so, normally joists.

Can you put composite decking over plywood?

Can You Place Composite Boards Directly On Top of Wood Boards? No; this is not a recommended practice. In many decking replacement jobs, joists end up being replaced, repaired or capped. This is due to the common discovery of dry rot beneath the decking, usually where the fastener penetrated the joist.

Does composite decking need more support?

Joists for composite decks

The plastic materials in composite decking require strict support to avoid bowing or warping when heated by the sun. The required joist span is 16-inches on centre, or 12-inches on centre when running boards at a 45-degree angle.

Does composite decking sag?

Your composite deck may not warp, but it can sag and buckle. Most sagging is caused by improper spacing between the joists when it is installed. Also, thermal expansion, the fluctuation of temperatures, can have a more significant effect on composite decking than on natural wood decking.

Can you lay composite decking on slabs?

Yes, you can install composite decking on concrete. Concrete patios and other hard surfaces are an ideal place to lay deck tiles because they are stable and durable. Concrete provides a more stable surface for composite decking, compared to surfaces such as gravel or sand.

Can you get composite joists?

Composite Joists (The NeoTimber Recommended Solution): Composed of a water resistant, rot-free material, WPC (wood plastic composite) joists are designed as a long-lasting alternative to wood, much like composite boards themselves.

Can you lay composite decking on sand?

The decking modules can now be laid on the flat surface of the sand. If you want to have a good long lasting deck that stays flat first lay out loose base boards made up, for example, of 25x100mm pressure impregnated timber at 300 to 400mm centres.

Is composite decking worth the money?

There is no doubt that composite decking material is more expensive than wood. However, it is valued for its striking resemblance to natural wood and efficiency making it an excellent choice for decking. It is easier to clean and maintain which makes it last long enough to transfer the same value to the next homeowner.

Do you need a special saw blade to cut composite decking?

Cutting composite decking is similar to cutting normal lumber; it just requires special saw blades. So when cutting composite decking, it is advisable to use saw blades that are convenient and flexible for cutting. The saw blades must also be sharp.

Do you need to seal cut ends of composite decking?

1- First, the installation of a composite deck is specific and differs from that of a conventional treated wood patio. 2- The composite board should never be cut, otherwise a cut with a precision carbide blade will be necessary and you will need to apply a treated wood sealer to the cut ends.