Composite decks, made from wood-plastic materials, offer some advantages over wood or other outdoor building materials. While they may be more expensive at first, they can make up for it in the long run with lower maintenance needs and other benefits.
The professionals at Toronto Custom Decks have installed hundreds of composite decks over the last 10 years, each one custom designed to exacting standards.
In the end, no one but the customer can decide what the building material of choice for their deck is, but here are the top 10 things to keep in mind if you’re thinking of having a composite deck installed.
Top 10 things to think about when deciding to install a composite deck:
- If you use your deck in the winter, be careful when removing snow or ice with a shovel or other sharp-edged implements. Composite decks can be easily gouged. Also refer to manufacturer directions or warnings when it comes to using snow or ice removal chemicals or rock salt as they can damage any decking surface.
- If you cook outdoors, make sure your grill is placed on a floor mat, piece of carpet, or other spill proof surface.
- Grease and oil spills should be cleaned up immediately, but try not to rub the spill as it will spread to a bigger area.
- Never pressure wash composite decks with more than 1500 PSI, and make sure the spray nozzle is 12 inches or more off the deck surface.
- Keep debris out of the gaps between deck boards as that can be a haven for pollen and insects.
- Use a commercial cleaner for mold and mildew.
- Clean your composite deck regularly, either brushing away debris with broom or using warm water with mild dish-washing liquid.
- Keep the deck dry as much as possible.
- Make sure your deck is installed with the proper drainage systems. For decks built at ground level, this means the structure should slope downward so water flows off it more easily. Decks at the second story level can be outfitted with commercial, under-deck drainage systems. In either example, both help keep the deck dry and ensure water drains away from vegetation and other landscaping.
- Make sure there is adequate space and ventilation between the deck boards to ensure air flow, but also to prevent mold from growing.