Composite Deck Construction Design
Shapes of composite boards
Like wooden decking, composites are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Each type has unique benefits and drawbacks to consider:
Solid Shape: used for border board in composite deck construction
Most similar to a traditional wood plank, solid composite decking has a rectangular profile. It’s mounted by screwing through the top, just like wood. It can be heavier than other types of composite, but has strong rigidity. Composite deck construction
Slotted Shape: Most Popular for composite deck construction
It’s just like solid composite, but with a notch cut down either side for use with a hidden fastening system. Using hidden fasteners keeps to PVC cap intact for protection and makes a beautiful deck surface, without screw holes. Some manufacturers don’t coat the notch with a protective PVC cap, leaving it more vulnerable to water ingress and insect penetration.
Ridged Shape:
Only one side of this board is usable, as the underside has cut-outs to reduce weight and cost.
Hollow Shape
Much lighter than other composite boards, but obviously plastic. End caps are used to block insects and small animals from nesting in the hollow cavities. The composite material of the boards can handle higher levels of UV exposure without fading, are mold-resistant in wet weather conditions, and do not expand and contract as much as wood decks would in cold climates – all without requiring any additional treatment or added protection. Composite deck construction
When framing Composite Deck Construction
- Frame material – Steel is a good choice for composite decking because it’s strong and durable, and can support heavy loads. Steel frames can span up to 16 feet without sagging, which can create more usable space under the deck. Joist spacing
- Joists – should be spaced 16 inches on-center for straight decking, and 12 inches on-center for diagonal decking at a 45-degree angle.
- Support – Composite decking is made of plastic materials that need strong support to prevent warping or bowing in the sun.
- Corner blocking – Place a solid block at each corner of the deck, leaving 15 inches of space between the inside of the block and the corner.
- Corner support joist – Place a corner support joist perpendicular to the blocking, 1.5 inches below the top of the joists.
- Pressure Treated wood – Pressure Treated wood is wet and heavy, difficult to handle, and will shrink, warping, and cup. Pressure treated wood also holds nails and screws better, and can be painted, stained, and sealed a few weeks after installed.
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