Which composite deck board is best?

TimberTech AZEK products are perhaps the best (and most expensive) of all the composite decking manufacturers. Its capped polymer boards are covered by a 50-year fade and stain warranty. Additional product lines include TimberTech Pro with 30-year warranties and TimberTech Edge with 25-year warranties.

What thickness decking boards are best?

16” on center = Standard for residential decking applications. 12” on center is recommended for a sturdier underfoot feel, when using standard deck board thickness of 1”. 24” on center = Sometimes used for commercial applications such as docks and boardwalks; wider joist spacing requires greater deck board thickness.

Can you pressure wash composite decking?

Pressure washing is not usually recommended for composite decking. If done incorrectly, it can be a big mistake. Pressure washing too close or using too much pressure can be ruinous for your deck. Composite decking material is softer than natural wood and therefore can be “etched” more easily.

Which composite decking looks most like wood?

What are the most premium composite decking products? Trex Transcend Composite Decking – Boasting gorgeous grain patterns and luxury colors that mimic real wood’s natural beauty, this decking is the crème de la crème of composites and comes with 25-Year Limited Residential Fade & Stain Warranty.

Is composite decking slippery when wet?

Most composite decking is slippery compared to wood decking when wet. The polymer cap of the decking repelling the water, creating potential slipping hazards. There are some notable composite decking exceptions, that provide excellent traction both when wet and dry.

Do you leave a gap between decking boards?

Determining Deck Board Spacing When using wood decking, you want a gap of at least 1/8 of an inch after your decking has dried out. If you’re using decking that’s already been dried out, you can leave a 1/8-inch gap when you install. Many decks will use “green” wood, or wood that hasn’t been dried down or kiln dried.

Should decking boards overhang?

The decking should overhang the joists between ¼ and 2 inches beyond the end joists and rim board. The amount of overhang you should leave depends on your deck board materials: Most wood decks: ¼” to 1 ¾” Composite decking: 1½”

Can you put deck boards tight together?

There is no reason to put a gap between the ends (also known as butt ends or butt joints) of wood deck boards. Wood, both softwood and hardwood, is dimensionally stable in length regardless of temperature, humidity or moisture content. Keep the butt ends as tight as possible when installing wood decking.

Can you power wash composite decking?

While a composite deck is less maintenance and easier to clean than a traditional wooden deck, the homeowner still needs to make sure it is kept clean and free from unwanted stains and materials. Thankfully, composite decking is easily cleaned with the soap-and-water method or basic power washing.