Explore the latest in composite decking materials, including types, grades, profiles, and installation tips. This guide provides essential insights for choosing durable, eco-friendly outdoor flooring options tailored to your needs, ensuring longevity and style for your backyard upgrades.

Overview of Composite Decking Materials

Over recent years, composite decking has become a preferred choice for homeowners seeking sustainable outdoor flooring solutions. Made from recycled plastics and wood waste, these decks are eco-friendly and durable. If you're planning to upgrade your outdoor space, understanding the types and qualities of composite decking is essential.

Types of Decking Boards

Double-sided Boards: Cost-effective and available from brands like Veranda® at The Home Depot™, these feature one textured wood-grain side and one brushed finish. Priced around $4.50/sq ft, they install with a slotted profile.

Resin-Coated Boards: Coated with a specialized resin layer, these provide a sleek look and resist stains, fading, and scratches. Both sides are protected for increased durability, with installation via a slotted profile, priced around $5.80/sq ft.

All-Plastic Boards: Composed mainly of 99% virgin PVC, these boards closely resemble composite wood and are highly resistant to scratches and stains. Their strength surpasses polyethylene, and they incorporate wood fibers to resist food stains effectively.

These robust materials outperform polyethylene in hardness and stain resistance, making them ideal for long-term outdoor use.

Grades of Composite Decking

Standard Grade: Featuring uneven textures and prominent grains, these 5-inch-wide boards are available in red, brown, and gray. Only one side is functional due to ridges underneath.

Mid-Range Grade: Offering better finishes with two usable sides and four color options, these 5.5-inch-wide boards suit most decks.

Premium Grade: Mimicking tropical hardwoods with streaked tones and smooth, slip-resistant surfaces, priced between $5.90 and $6.50 per sq ft.

Common Profiles

Slotted: Features grooves on both sides for concealed fasteners, starting at approximately $4.60 per sq ft.

Solid Boards: Thick and slot-free, allowing flexible fastening options, priced from $4.60 per sq ft.

Open Flange: Designed for lighter weight with hidden fasteners, costing around $5.90 per sq ft.

Installation Tips

Joist Spacing: Keep joists no more than 16 inches apart to avoid sagging. Use screws at least ¾ inch away from edges and ends.

Board Gaps: Avoid tight spacing to prevent debris buildup and mildew. 16d nails help maintain proper drainage and spacing.

Disclaimer: This article offers research-based insights on composite decking. Availability and pricing may vary. Always verify details before purchasing or installing.