Composite Decking

[SnowMan]

Trying to decide between wood and composite. What are some of the negatives with composite?

 

[John?]

Composite negatives. It flexes and distorts with sun exposure - offset by getting thicker and more rigid material. It fades in UV exposure. Offset by choosing a lighter color.

The benefits greatly outweigh the disadvantages.

 

[Luckyshot]

• Can fade
• Can be as slippery as wood when iced over
• I would argue it is not totally time proven--maybe all composites will break down and need replacement as often as a neglected wood deck. I would definitely not go cheap
• It is not as stiff or light as wood, so tighter joist spacing may be needed to keep the floor from sagging
• If you do hidden fasteners you will be disappointed

Unless you enjoy house maintenance, or particularly are fond of the look/smell/feel of a nice wooden deck I would not do wood ever

 

[D̷e̷v̷i̷l̷D̷o̷c̷A̷Z̷]

In the long run which cost more?

 

[whatsupdoc]

• Can fade
• Can be as slippery as wood when iced over
• I would argue it is not totally time proven--maybe all composites will break down and need replacement as often as a neglected wood deck. I would definitely not go cheap
• It is not as stiff or light as wood, so tighter joist spacing may be needed to keep the floor from sagging
• If you do hidden fasteners you will be disappointed

Unless you enjoy house maintenance, or particularly are fond of the look/smell/feel of a nice wooden deck I would not do wood ever

"If you do hidden fasteners you will be disappointed"

Why is that? I am about to do a new deck "second floor".

 

[Luckyshot]

"If you do hidden fasteners you will be disappointed"

Why is that? I am about to do a new deck "second floor".

They simply do not hold boards down as tight, and often need to be tightened with the hot and cold swelling/sliding of the boards.

Face screws go in easier/quicker and are tighter holding.

Generally speaking, the people that choose hidden fasteners for the perceived luxury are the same people who will be especially critical of sliding boards or soft spots on the deck, and won't be willing to tighten them themselves.

If you are willing to monitor them and just tighten as needed, then go for it.
Having done both, I prefer simple and effective, and don't think anyone notices face screws except the owner if they are color matched

edit to add that it isn't really a huge deal either way, so if your wife wants hidden you should just do it

 

[lash]

Composite negatives. It flexes and distorts with sun exposure - offset by getting thicker and more rigid material. It fades in UV exposure. Offset by choosing a lighter color.

The benefits greatly outweigh the disadvantages.

Agreed, however here in Florida wood does exactly both of these things too. Especially the cheap DIY store pressure treated crap. If you want a good wood deck that will last, either go with thicker wood boards treated for salt water exposure, premium wood products or a high quality composite. Cost becomes similar at that point.