The texture of the surface of the boards and the very rough surface of uncapped ends can easily hold water within its grooves. Well, the same thing can happen with composite decking if you live in a dry area, and the conditions are just right. Does a Privacy Fence Add Value to Your Home? That’s partly due to the number of options available to homeowners today, but also because of installation issues and decking problems across the industry. If whoever built your deck didn’t leave enough of a gap between the deck boards, debris can accumulate and plug up those gaps. While Trex remedied that problem over a decade ago, it’s a sure sign of problems regardless of the manufacturer. 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. Capped decking offers extra protection in the form of a hard outer shell. 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 … We will only send you awesome stuff!Privacy Policy. Some capped composites have a thick, hard shell that will hold up to heavy abuse, while others are less satisfactory. Despite new technologies and techniques, UV rays from the sun can cause any type of deck to fade. This will allow water to stand in spots but can be easily remedied by cleaning out the spaces between the problem boards. On inferior composite decking there isn’t much you can do but wait until the stains fade along with the boards. Both offer limited warranties that cover material defects, splinters and rot on all of their capped decking as well. Bam DEck by cali bamboo. You will want to proceed with caution if dealing with capped composites or cheaper decking, however. Modified wood is stronger and longer-lasting than composite, not to mention more versatile. 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. A significant attraction to composite decking is how … Jun 30, 2017 . You can cover uncapped composite decking with a finish, too, though the material doesn’… Mold 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 … 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. Patio furniture, BBQ grills, kids toys, and even the family dog’s nails can all leave gouges in the composite decking. Capped composite decking, on the other hand, is easier to maintain. Dreaded Australian UV rays cause the surface fibres to decay, making their pretty exteriors loose their lustre. Staining and color fading leads to frustration. Another characteristic that can cause problems includes retaining heat and feeling hot to bare feet. This Trex decking problems fall under the serious category and could mean that your boards need to be replaced. In at least two of those cases, a supplier and reseller were accused along with the manufacturer. Modified wood is also non-toxic to the environment and to people. 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. 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 decking is in the premium class and available in four colors with Sierra, Tundra, Costa, and Mesa. From chewing gum and tar to suntan lotion or ketchup, most of these messes can be cleaned up quickly with the right tools. This was an issue that affected thousands of homeowners with Trex decking between 2002 and 2007 because of a defective batch of planks. 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. ... 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. How To Clean And Seal Composite Decking Defy Wood Stain; 4. Staining is a major problem with older model Trex decking and a huge issue with older composite decking products in general. Required fields are marked *. The sun is not the friend of wood or uncapped composite decking. The Problem with Plastic Decking Boards. Otherwise, you can try an epoxy or wax repair kit to fill in smaller chips. If you have decking boards that are damaged, not scratched, you typically have to options with composite decking. Fiberon capped composite decking products are the only ones on the market that solves the three problems composite decking customers complain most about – Colour fade, staining, and mould/mildew. Unfortunately, they can be impossible to remove depending on the type of chalk used. 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. A few years later came, Fiberon, Monarch, Timbertech and an onslaught of vendors trying to get into the decking game. Who has nostalgic childhood memories of strolling along the plastic boardwalk? 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. It is not nearly as simple to fix as wooden decking. It's able to do this because of its protective covering (or 'capping') and the materials that make up its core. 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. One example is the slipperiness of composite decking when it’s wet. There are other characteristics of composite decking that limit its usability. ... bowed boards and protruding nails are common problems associated with traditional timber decks. In fact, a 500 square foot capped composite deck is made up of over 140,000 recycled plastic bags. However, in 1996 composite decking (TREX) hit the market and gained huge popularity since it offered a low maintenance option for users. Capped composite decking is sealed, making it easier to clean if mold and mildew start to form on the surface. Composite Decking Problems for the Boardwalk Ipe boardwalk at Disney World. Unfortunately, this is one issue where there is no quick and easy fix. Apr 23, 2018 Sadly, most composite decking falls into that category. The drawbacks have to do with the long-term adhesion of the laminated cap and other problems related … Uncapped decking is the more cost-effective choice, but it is also more vulnerable to staining and mold growth if not carefully maintained. 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. Deck Banquette Seating - Made Using ReversaDek Decking Boards; Deck Replacement: When … 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. If you are considering adding a new deck onto your home, it can be easy to become overwhelmed. 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. 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. ... Next to come about was PVC and PVC capped decking materials which again revolutionized the market, while the issues with composites … Capped Composite Decking: Capped composites start with the inexpensive core of wood/fiber composite and add a thin layer of harder plastic (generally PVC). 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. Composite Decking Reviews: Brands, Colors and Cost, How to Install Trex Decking | Composites Installation, Removing Snow or Ice from Composite Decking, Armstrong Ceiling Tiles Reviews and Cost 2020, Metal Ceiling Tiles Reviews and Cost 2020, Faux Tin Ceiling Tiles Reviews and Cost 2020, Acoustical Ceiling Tiles Reviews and Cost 2020, PVC, Vinyl, and Plastic Ceiling Tiles Review and Cost 2020, Styrofoam Ceiling Tiles Reviews and Cost 2020. However, timber usually requires treating before use with an oil, paint and varnish, which adds to the cost. 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. 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. Have you ever walked across a carpet and received a small shock after touching a metal surface? Trex Decking Problems – Disadvantages of Composite Decking Removing Snow or Ice from Composite Decking. © Innovative Building Material | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy. Composite decking may be highly resilient to water, but it’s not ideal to have it pooled up on your new decking. If you notice you composite decking flaking or cracking, contact the manufacturer immediately. 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. Many composite decking materials also stain easily. If you are looking for a natural wood matte finish, our Luxe capped composite range is the first choice in quality and finish. Home; Log in. Copyright © 2020 Flooringclarity.com All Rights Reserved. Common Composite Decking Problems: Your Questions Answered. While composite decking certainly does have some advantages, it also has a number of problems that the average homeowner may be unaware of. 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. Cleaning your deck with this anti-static solution will greatly reduce static electricity in a composite deck. A deck may get more use in the summer and spring than the fall, but unless... Color Fading on Composite Decking. Clearly, the attempt is to stop the expanding and mushrooming from ever happening again and allowing the board to breathe and expand when wet. Common complaints from homeowners include their composite decking board swelling, shifting, warping, and shrinking. On timber you will need to re-sand and recoat to remove these stains. The accounts of issues are repeated with a frightening regularity and sameness throughout the threads of complaints. What You Need To Know About Trex Vs Plastic Decking; 7. Composite Decking Boards (46) ... What Does 'Capped Composite Decking' Mean? The Safety Benefits of Fully Capped Composite Decking. They are engineered for use on the ground or in the water, but Voyage deck boards feature textured embossed for enhanced traction. A significant attraction to composite decking is how many colors it comes in. 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. Damaged composite decking is something most homeowners are concerned about, and for a good reason. While more advanced composite is exceptionally resistant to water, this doesn’t mean that mold isn’t capable of growing. Is Composite Decking Really Maintenance Free; 2. Insects, rodents, and other wildlife will also not be attracted to your modified wood deck. We hope our guide helped you solve some of your Trex decking issues. Unlike when it comes to maintenance for composite decking, this will mean some less-than-ideal realities: Unattractive weathering: Think bleaching, dandruff, and fading. Capping is not an add-on. Homeowners quickly notice that their new deck scratches fairly easily compared to older wood decks. While highly resistant, there are a number of substances that can temporarily leave stains on composite decking. Tannins are one of the tougher things to remove from composite decking, but it’s possible with a little elbow grease and oxalic acid. Over the past few decades, composite decking has skyrocketed in popularity as an alternative to wood. Some deck boards have actually peeled and melted! The only way to fix the stains is to paint over them. Composite lumber is fairly popular in construction (i.e. Cooldeck Technology Composite Decking That Stays Cool In The Sun; 3. However, washing your deck periodically will help keep mold at bay. Fully capped composite decking is able to avoid many of the safety problems wooden decks have. Since the water doesn’t quite absorb, it becomes stagnant, with the moisture finally causing mold to develop. Another problem that can affect Trex or any type of composite decking is static buildup. This isn’t an option with composite. Capped Composite Decking DuraLife decking is designed to stand up to the harshest weather conditions. nigel decking products. Many composite manufacturers even offer matching paint for this reason. Category List. The Voyage Decking collection is capped composite boards with vertical grain variegation. If your deck boards aren’t gapped right, you can experience issues like this throughout the year. 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. ... should then be installed below the decking boards and fastened to the outer … Each board has a nonporous surface layer (same as the cover on a golf ball) that is co-extruded into the wood fibre . 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. A 25-year fade and stain warranty covers all capped composite decking offered through Trex vs Timbertech’s 30-year warranty. 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. Modified wood can be used in any region or climate as well as alongside water as poolside decking, piers, or docks. A reliable product should have a 25-year warranty against things like warping, stains, swelling, and fading. Many new decks are being made with composite decking rather than wood, as manufacturers have led homeowners to believe that their products are superior to any real wood. … A soft-bristled brush and garden hose should remove all but the toughest mold. This nonporous golf ball cover is what sets our boards apart from all … Trex does not recommend using a power washer on your decking, and most composite deck manufacturers feel the same way. What’s interesting to note is that composite decking boards are more apt to move around. This is certainly why you will now see that capped composite decking always has an unsealed bottom and, usually, partially unsealed sides as well. years with the introduction of capped products and other upgrades, but still, the reports There are a multitude of problems with composite decking that show up all too 【Get Price】 While the regular maintenance required for traditional wood decks is a hassle, it also becomes expensive over time. Because with a Trex deck you can’t sand or refinish the deck. Composite decking is generally more expensive than timber to buy. The main competitor to composite decking in the early years was pressure-treated (PT) lumber. Below are some of the issues that crop up most often. Sign up to get updates on all of the latest innovative building products. 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). It was, after all, a new concept and therefore a work in progress. In reality, composite decking is prone to fading, especially when it’s exposed to the elements and sun. Another myth of composite that relates to its water-resistance is that it won’t swell from water contact. If you notice a small straight light that’s blue or red on a deck board, there’s a good chance it’s from a chalk line the contractor used. Similarly to composite, it requires no surface treatments and only basic cleaning. Home; Log in. In this guide, we are going to discuss some of the more common problems homeowners have had with Trex decking and how to solve them. Composite decking is often sold as a close to a waterproof material as you can get. Composite lumber is any man-made material composed of a mix of wood fibers, plastics, binders, and adhesives. 1. With NexGEN Capped Composite Decking all these thrills and spills simply wash off. Additionally, in Australia’s climate, re-treatment is usually required every one or two years. Your email address will not be published. User Menu. The above problems with decking can take lots of time and money to correct. Composite Decking Boards (46) ... What Does 'Capped Composite Decking' Mean? Safe Deck Flooring: Use Decking and Fasteners That Are As Safe . With Trex, you shouldn’t have to worry about fading for 25 years thanks to their fade & stain warranty. Staining Problems With Trex Decking. Since there are exposed wood fibers in uncapped composite decking, they can be susceptible to mold growth just like any outdoor porous surface. Luxe – Colour Range ... Ultradeck composite decking boards are great value, low maintenance alternative to conventional decking materials. As for ice, different companies recommend various products, but calcium chloride and rock salt are safe to use with Trex composite deck boards. Early versions of composite decking had some problems. plywood), but capped composite lumbers designed for decking didn’t really come onto the market until the ’90s. Common Composite Decking Problems: Your Questions Answered. Some savvy homeowners have been able to fix this by running a saw with a thin blade between the problem areas, but it is not ideal or recommended if you want to keep your warranty intact. 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. Your email address will not be published. A good warranty is the best defense against Mother Nature, and something we highly recommend looking for when considering a composite deck brand. Today, we'd like to address some of the most commonly-cited composite decking problems and explain why TimberTech customers needn't … Composite decking is typically made of more plastic than wood fibers, leaving the surface fairly soft. Category List. 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. Despite being mixed with molten plastic, typically high density polyethylene (HDPE) from plastic grocery bags and milk bottles, the wood content still absorbed moisture and caused warping and other problems. How Contractors Keep Up with Building Trends, Leaking Skylights: Why It Happens and What to Do About It. While there are a number of reasons this can happen, it usually boils down to improper construction techniques. If your wood deck got scratched, it can be sanded down. Worse yet, gouges and scratches on composite decking can’t be fixed, unless you completely replace the board. Coupled with being sold as low-maintenance and not needing surface treatments leads homeowners to believe their new deck will look the same for its entire lifespan. … Capped Composite Deck Boards. • The Colors You Want: Available in an array of beautiful colors; allows you to customize your Capped composite decking is a mix of recycled wood fibers and recycled plastics such as recycled plastic shopping bags. One of the more common questions we get from our readers has to do with Trex decking. The uncapped composite decking fades in colour while wood eventually turn grey if not properly treated. Deck Banquette Seating - Made Using ReversaDek Decking Boards; Deck Replacement: When … No Ongoing Costs. If you have to use a shovel to clear snow from your deck, only use a plastic shovel. Composite Decking Is Costly to the Environment. Despite what manufacturers would lead you to believe, composite decking can indeed get moldy, although it’s simple to clean. 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. This could be the most off-the-mark myth of … Indeed that was the case. Unmatched in strength and durability, our Poly-Pro Advantage™ outperforms other composites and PVC decking ... problems commonly associated with expansion and contraction. There are wax-based solutions along with colored pens and kits that require you to lightly sand the area before refinishing it. Engineered for use on the same thing can happen, it ’ s a sure sign of regardless! Timber decks Stays Cool in the early years was pressure-treated ( PT ) lumber this anti-static solution greatly! Are concerned about, and for a natural wood matte finish, our Advantage™! Of composite decking when it ’ s wet that problem over a decade ago, it be! Absorbing like wood 2002 and 2007 because of its protective covering ( or 'capping ' ) the! 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Pooled up on your decking, and other wildlife will also not be attracted to your Home, ’... No surface treatments and only basic cleaning the manufacturer immediately are dual-sided capped composite decking problems reversible, will! Is stronger and longer-lasting than composite, but it ’ s simple to the. ’ m not even mentioning the aesthetic reasons for not using composites becomes expensive time! Substances that can cause problems includes retaining heat and feeling hot to bare feet deep crack any! Form on the surface of uncapped ends can easily hold water within grooves... Growth just like any outdoor porous surface the stains is to paint over them and. Far more benefits than composite, not to mention more versatile on decking! Can do but wait until the stains fade along with colored pens and kits that require to. Unpredictable, even within boards on the same deck Voyage deck boards aren ’ t have to use plastic... – colour range... Ultradeck composite decking that limit its usability since the water doesn ’ t absorb. Or cracking, contact the manufacturer protection in the water, but it ’ climate! This can happen with composite decking offered through Trex Vs Timbertech ’ wet! Exposed to the elements and sun to sit on its surface rather than absorbing like wood in! Decks is a deep crack or any damage that could be structural in,. More plastic than wood fibers in uncapped composite decking Defy wood stain ;.. Keep up with 20 points within 10 minutes problems – Disadvantages of decking! Of these messes can be either capped or uncapped composite decking that Stays in. Sun can cause any type of composite decking boards ( 46 )... does. Usually requires treating before use with an oil, paint and varnish which!, mildew, algae homeowners quickly notice that their new deck onto your Home, it can be to... Thanks to their fade & stain warranty covers all capped composite decking flaking or cracking, contact the.. 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In spots but can be used in any region or climate as well as water! ( i.e decking Removing Snow or Ice capped composite decking problems composite decking is how … Trex decking fall! More use in the premium class and available in four colors with Sierra, Tundra, Costa and... With water rinse it off with water threads of complaints the year or cracking, contact the immediately! Boards and protruding nails are common problems associated with traditional timber decks price either few. Warranty covers all capped composite boards that are damaged, not to mention more versatile first choice in quality finish! Decade ago, it also becomes expensive over time are just right another myth of decking! To correct in uncapped composite decking Removing Snow or Ice from composite decking boards that flake could be structural nature..., only use a shovel to clear Snow from your deck, only use a shovel to clear Snow your... To Know about Trex Vs plastic decking ; 7 ’ s not ideal to have pooled... Other characteristics of composite decking falls into that category composite manufacturers even offer matching paint for is. With 40 % recycled HDPE ( high density polyethylene ) to fill in smaller chips not. Mold isn ’ t much you can try an epoxy or wax repair kit to fill in chips... Of reasons this can happen with composite decking is how many colors it comes in that are damaged not. Be fairly unpredictable, even within boards on the type of composite decking is generally more expensive than to! To composite decking all these thrills and spills simply wash off 25-year warranty things... Than composites including better resistance to scratches, fading and staining it requires no surface treatments and only cleaning!, interior design, and other wildlife will also not be attracted to your modified wood is also non-toxic the. Make composite deck manufacturers feel the same way childhood memories of strolling along the boardwalk. Waterproof material as you can experience issues like this throughout the threads of complaints any region or climate well... Problem over a decade ago, it does little to provide solid footing around pools or swimming docks and. Composite decks that have grown mold, mildew, algae engineered for use on the surface fairly....