The Problems With Composite Decking

Winner: Trex

This, of course, wouldn’t be visually appealing but it would do its job of keeping the floor safe to walk on. You can probably do this on areas that constantly get wet, and has a tendency to get very slippery, such as near the edges of the pool.

Some types are solid and heavy, while others are hollow and lighter weight. And because much of this decking can be cut, shaped, and fastened almost like wood , building with it is just as easy. Prices are competitive with those for cedar or redwood, but expect to pay 15 to 20 percent more than for pressure-treated pine. For all the lounging done on them, wood decks require a lot of work to maintain. When paint or stain fades and chalks because of the weather, they need to be recoated.

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Wood is more likely to have smooth spots created by wear; such spots may be slippery when wet. Most brands of composite decking have textured finishes to make them slip-resistant. Water and ice accumulation from rain and snow may create slippery conditions on any deck surface. While composite decks can help resist rotting and are considered more durable than wood, it doesn’t mean they’re completely safe from damage. Patio furniture or debris from a passing storm may scratch the surface. Unlike wood, which you can sand and refinish, composite decking can’t be refinished, but in general – you shouldn’t need to. Depending on your budget and the needs of your project there are lots of options available.

And there are things you can do to increase the surface traction. SlipDoctors’ Floor Grip is an effective roll-on anti-slip coating ideal for slippery composite decking surfaces. This clear, water-based urethane sealer was designed for creating an anti-slip coating on vinyl, vinyl composition tile , interior wood, cork, laminate, linoleum surfaces, and more. Floor Grip will increase traction dramatically and is a great solution for human feet and dog paws to prevent slipping. What are Veranda Composite Decking and Railing made of? Our composite decking products consist of wood and plastic with a rich, realistic woodgrain. The downside is that plastic lumber doesn't look much like wood.

These are algae or fungal growth, molds, or mildew, which can make the surface slippery. Molds do not grow on composite decks, but pollen, leaves or other debris on decks can cause mold. At SlipDoctors we stock Floor Grip, the ideal anti-slip product for composite decking. This product will not change the look of your decks, is easy to apply and incredibly cost-effective.

To ensure safety, manufacturers of plastic and composite decking have started submitting products to slip-resistance tests set up by ASTM International. So far, however, a nationwide safety standard has not been established. “If you have any concern with slipperiness, go with a rough-textured composite,” says Dr. Prabhat Krishnaswami, vice chair of an ASTM committee on plastic lumber standards. One concern about nonwood decking is how slippery it can be when wet. "Most plastic boards are smoother on top than composites, which have a rough texture to improve slip resistance," he says. "If you have any concern with slipperiness, go with a rough-textured composite," says Dr. Prabhat Krishnaswami, vice chair of an ASTM committee on plastic lumber standards.

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Eventually, as sun and rain cause the wood to crack, splinter, and rot, boards will have to be torn up and replaced. To keep a wood deck looking its best takes time and money. Composite decking manufacturers have also found ways to offer more cost-competitive options, such as Trex’s new lower-cost board, to fit a wider range of budgets. Now, it’s possible for a homeowner or commercial contractor to build with composite decking materials and realize the same long-term benefits without breaking the bank. Composite decking is one of the most durable decking materials on the market.

• Sometimes slippage is caused by mold on the deck surface.
• To ensure safety, manufacturers of plastic and composite decking have started submitting products to slip-resistance tests set up by ASTM International.
• According to Richmond, who installs plastic and composite decks, all-plastic planks seem to be a little more slippery than regular wood, whereas composites are not.
• “Most plastic boards are smoother on top than composites, which have a rough texture to improve slip resistance,” he says.
• It is important to note that soap and water are used daily for regular cleaning to keep the decking clean.

Start your research by becoming familiar with types of authentic and synthetic decking. NeoTimber® specialises in the highest quality composite decking for your garden, balcony and commercial applications. Simple to install, and backed by our 25-year residential warranty, we offer a superb range of products and a first-class service. The slip resistance of your deck area is determined primarily by the texture of the deck board’s finish. In providing ultimate versatility, NeoTimber composite deck boards come in two reversible finishes, allowing customers to opt for a woodgrain or grooved-channel texture. Naturally, these two differing material finishes offer slightly different resistance to slipping. Today Trex offers the industry’s widest array of high-performance composite products, available in more than 29 countries around the world.

Slip & Fall Problems Areas On Synthetic Wood

While composite decking will save you time, energy and money in the long-run, there is no such thing as a truly no-maintenance decking material. Any outdoor living space will require occasional cleaning of dirt and debris. Learn more about deck maintenance here, and discover some additional benefits of composite decking versus wood to keep in consideration when planning your next deck build. The most common question we encounter on Decks.com is, "What is the best composite decking material?" Unfortunately, there isn't a simple answer. There are multiple brands to choose from, with various categories of products in a wide range of prices. To help you narrow down your choices, there are several considerations to take into account.

How To Stop Decking Being Slippery In Winter

Timbertech Composite Decking Color Chart

Hot coals or ignited gas too close to the surface will create similar results. You’ll want to look at how the sun shines on this material at your installation point as well. If the rays have a focus point through a window, then there is a chance that a hot day could melt it as well. When you start shopping for composite decking materials, then you will find that there is a variety of grades available from which to choose.