While composite decking may require less maintenance than wood, it has a variety of drawbacks. Composite decking is soft and easily scratched. Moving furniture or even dogs playing on the deck can cause lasting damage. These decks are also prone to fading.
In this regard, does composite decking scratch easily?
Scratching: Composite decking is made of a combination of wood and plastic. This combination is intended to reduce chance of rot and extend the life of the deck. T he material is not indestructible. The surface of the boards can be scratched rather easily.
Secondly, what is the best type of composite decking? TimberTech (AZEK) Railing products include both solid PVC and some composite materials. TimberTech AZEK products are high-quality, premium lines, perhaps the best (and most expensive) of all the composite decking manufacturers, with a limited warranty of 50 years.
Likewise, how does composite decking hold up to dogs?
Finding Decking That Keeps Splinters and Nails out of Dog Paws. In addition, composite decking produces an all-around safer and more comfortable deck to walk on. While they keep the splinters away, the fact that composite decking doesn’t weather means you don’t have screws and nails popping up out of decking surface.
How can I protect my deck from my dog?
Chewing on the Wood To discourage your dog from chewing on your deck spray corners, edges and anywhere they may gnaw with no chew spray. The spray can be picked up at any pet store. Another way to keep your dog from gnawing on the deck is by keeping a few toys outside for them to chew on instead.
13 Related Question Answers Found
Can you power wash a composite deck?
PRESSURE WASHING YOUR COMPOSITE DECKING Pressure washing is not usually recommended for composite decking. Pressure washing too close or using too much pressure can be ruinous for your deck. Composite decking material is softer than natural wood and therefore can be “etched” more easily.
What are the disadvantages of composite decking?
Fading and damages Darker composite deck colors may fade over time. This is an unavoidable process that happens due to UV rays, weathering, and high foot traffic. Other drawbacks include noticeable surface damage. Severe scratches and deep gouges are common issues with composite deck products.
Can you power wash a Trex deck?
Use of a power washer will damage the decking surface and will void the warranty with respect to any condition caused by the power washing. Trex high-performance decking (Trex Transcend, Trex Enhance and Trex Select) can be power washed. Use only a fan tip and up to a 3100 psi power washer to remove dirt and debris.
How long does a composite deck last?
25 to 30 years
How do you protect a composite deck from scratches?
Homeowners can avoid causing unsightly scratches on their decking by adding inexpensive protective padding to the bottom of all outdoor furniture. Outdoor furniture foot pads are typically made from dense, heavy duty fabrics such as felt or various types of plastics.
Is composite decking slippery when wet?
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.
Should I seal my composite deck?
You don’t have to seal the surface once it’s been cleaned, but I suggest you do. If you decide to not seal the deck, you will most likely need to clean it again every year or so. By properly sealing or staining composite decking, you could get several years of use out of it before you need to clean it again.
What do you put under a deck?
Gravel. If the area under your deck or stairs will collect water or is prone to gathering moisture, an inorganic mulch such as gravel, crushed rocks or river rocks is best. Gravel is a good material to place under outdoor structures, because it allows water to drain and doesn’t decompose.
What can I cover my old deck with?
Here are just a few tile options that you can use to cover up your old deck. StayLock Flexible Deck Tiles. Garden Deck Tiles. Interlocking Patio and Outdoor Deck Tiles. Sterling Interlocking Rubber Deck Tiles. Life Floor Rubber Foam Blend Slate Tiles. Ordering and Installing Deck Tiles.
Is composite decking toxic?
Composite decking does not, and in fact, when the plastic melts, it releases very toxic gases.
What is good to put on a deck to prevent splinters?
Mix up a solution of half bleach, half water, and spray down your entire decking. If you see areas of deck mold (not unlikely if it’s been a while since your deck’s been treated), hit those especially hard and work at them with a scrub brush until the mold has been removed.
How do you remove dog scratches from wood?
Clean the area. Just as you would for shallow scratches, create a clean surface for repair by cleaning the area with your rag and hardwood cleaner. Fill the scratch. Using wood filler and a putty knife, fill in the scratch. Sand. Apply wood stain. Apply a finish.
How long does cedar decking last?
15-20 years