Why is my composite decking cracking?

It can crack if the deck suffers stress due to a settling foundation or a poor design. It may also crack due to simple wear and tear or faulty pieces. Manufacturers have developed a product specifically designed to patch cracks in composite decking.

How do I stop my deck from cracking?

Decking splits as it dries. As the water evaporates from the wood in the sun, the surface wood shrinks cracking around the un-shrunk core wood or fasteners. The solution to prevent decking from splitting is controlling the pace the wood dries and providing room around the fasteners for the decking to shrink.

Is it normal for new deck boards to crack?

Although cracking on a deck isn't attractive, it's usually just a normal sign of aging. If the cracks are less than six inches long, all you need to do is fill them in with latex wood filler and then finish off the deck with sealant.

Why is my composite decking warping?

Warping of the composite decking will only occur if there is no spacing between the boards. When installing composite decking, ensure that the decking is appropriately spaced to allow it to expand freely. The gaps between the boards will prevent it from being tightly close to each other when it expands.

Can you ruin composite decking?

Cleaning Composite Decking Of Common Stains & Problems. Over time, your composite decking or porch will probably need to be cleaned from common problems such as mold, dirt, food and beverage stains, etc. While mildew and mold can infiltrate and ruin a wooden deck, it can't damage a composite deck.

Composite Deck Failure

What should you not use on a composite deck?

Chlorine Bleach is extremely corrosive and will “eat” any material it's applied to. Eventually, it will discolor your deck, damage the surface (not to mention your plants) and exacerbate any mold/mildew issues that can occur. Avoid this costly mistake and choose a non-toxic, sodium percarbonate based cleaner.

What happens if you power wash a composite deck?

Depending on the brand, some composite decking materials are softer than wood. Due to this, using a power washer badly can cause the outer layer of the material to come off. Once this happens, your patio will be more susceptible to weather damage, moulds, and chipping.

Can you fix warped composite decking?

In most cases, fixing a warped composite decking requires the replacement of each individually warped board. Here are the steps on how to do it. First, you will want to identify the parts of your decking that require replacement. Then, measure the composite boards that you will replace.

How long should a composite deck last?

THE AVERAGE CAPPED COMPOSITE DECKING LIFESPAN:

Estimated to be 25 to 30 years.

Should decking have cracks?

Constant exposure to moisture and heat causes wood deck boards to crack, and small or hairline cracks are an unavoidable consequence of your deck's aging process. The wood gets wet, soaks up the water, expands and then drys out, contracting and shrinking, causing cracks in the surface of the wood.

Why is my deck splintering?

Splintering decks are usually the result of neglect — occurring after a deck remains untreated and unsealed for a number of years. The lack of protection allows water to soak into the boards, eventually causing them to splinter and crack.

Why does my deck make popping noises in winter?

It is that cold temperatures cause materials to shrink, and some components of your deck are shrinking more than others. This builds up stress that suddenly relieves itself and produces the loud cracking or popping sounds. Usually this doesn't mean any damage has occurred.

How do you bring a deck back to life?

Is composite decking low maintenance?

Composite lumber decking is a great low-maintenance alternative to wood. The composite decking industry endured some growing pains early on, but materials continue to improve and the number of quality products on the market increases each year.

How does composite decking hold up over time?

The eco-benefits of composite extend beyond the recycled materials used in the decking's manufacture. Because the components are virtually maintenance-free, gallons of stain and/or sealant are saved. More durable than wood, composite decking stays out of the landfill longer.

Do composite deck boards expand and contract?

As temperatures fluctuate, composite deck boards will naturally experience thermal expansion and contraction. That's why the board ends should never be installed tight against one another.

Does Trex composite decking warp?

Trex decking resists termites, won't rot, warp, or splinter-and never needs staining or painting.

Does composite decking puddle?

In short, no. Standing water on composite deck boards will not affect your TimberTech® capped polymer or capped composite deck boards the way it would traditional wood.

How do you refresh composite decking?

How do you reseal composite decking?

What is the best cleaner for composite decks?

For a composite deck: Combine a half-cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar to ¼ a cup of baking soda with 1 gallon of water. Swab this mixture on the entire deck and rinse well with clean water. Avoid homemade deck cleaners or brighteners when using a pressure washer or power washer.