Composite decking might be something most homeowners would want to opt for since many consider it maintenance-free. However, you’d be surprised at the many issues it often comes with. That’s why we’ll go over the main composite decking problems most people experience.

Composite decks are heavier than standard-real wood decks due to plastic, lumber mill scraps, wood fibers, and other materials that make them durable. Due to the plastic material, you won’t suffer from bugs, ants, or termites, so composite decks have many advantages.

But, as with any other furniture, a composite deck involves many advantages that you should be aware of and not regret anything later. Keep reading this blog to know more about composite decks. 

5 Common Composite Decking Problems People Face

Many people wonder which one to choose between wooden and composite decks. While wooden decks are beautiful and cost less, composite decks are a great alternative to wood due to their longer lifespans (they can last over 25 years.)

Unfortunately, there are many problems with this deck type. Since composite decking materials consist of wood fibers and a plastic coating, this combination makes it easy for issues to arise. For this reason, we’ll go over the main complications this option comes with.

These are the top composite decking problems homeowners experience:

• Color fading is typical for these decks.
• There’s a chance of mold growth.
• Composite decks are susceptible to warping.
• Scratches on the surface of the boards.
• Composite deck boards bring a negative user experience.

If you are thinking about installing a composite deck, read this blog to get into these issues and discover how to fix them. These problems can affect your wallet most of the time, so before installing, be sure to understand the effects. 

Color Fading Is Common for These Decks

One of the main problems with composite decks is that it’s prone to color fading. There are cases in which composite decking has faded so fast that homeowners need to replace the boards every couple of seasons. What happens is that composite decks are very susceptible to sunlight, and they lose color due to the exposition. The color fades in the sun.

In summer, the high temperatures provoke the deck to fade rapidly, and the only thing you can do is put a cover.  On the other hand, rain could remove the color from your deck; for that reason, it is crucial to look for resist oil paint for the deck. There exist some waterproofing deck sealers that could help you to save your deck. 

Moreover, foot traffic is another aspect that removes the color over the years. The best option to fix the deck is to repaint it or strip it. 

There’s a Chance of Mold Growth

Believe it or not, this decking type isn’t resistant to mold, mildew, and moss growth. While composite decking companies sell it as waterproof, the truth is that it can hold water when it gets stuck between the boards’ grooves.

Mold growth will be expected during the humid season due to the rains. And, since it doesn’t absorb the water, it often brings mold issues to homeowners. The worst part is that you must be careful when getting your decking power-washed since it’s brittle. 

Furthermore, moisture or mildew grows because the deck is too close to the floor or the inadequate drainage system. Water will start to become moldy, damaging the surface and the boards. If you don’t clean it, the mold will expand to the entire deck. 

Baking soda is one of the stronger materials to stop moisture and mold in your deck. Spread it through the deck, and apply an anti-mildew spray to have better results. 

Composite Decks Are Susceptible to Warping

Tear and wear are something that affects every single feature of your home, and your deck is no exception. Most of the time, when the wood is in the middle, your deck will suffer from this situation.   Along with mold growth, composite decking products can also warp, swell, shrink, and even shift.

While experts don’t know the exact reason behind this phenomenon, it can be that this type of decking is more sensitive to humidity and temperature changes. Wood-plastic materials absorb heat and expand any furniture. What happens is that heat, or even water makes the composite deck more flexible.

You can buy some new composite boards to fix warping and shape them to restore the affected area. Be prepared in seasons like winter or summer when the temperatures are high. 

Scratches on the Surface of the Boards

Decks are the perfect place to host any outdoor parties. And, for these parties, almost every homeowner prepares their guests the good-old barbecue grill. Sadly, composite decks aren’t your best choice when hosting this type of event.  Because plastic is very fragile to scratches, it’s common for people to start noticing them almost instantly after using it.

Due to the foot traffic, scratches are typical on this type of deck. High heels, boots, and some sandals could provoke scratches on the furniture. Don’t think that scratches grow instantly, and they appear over time. The best way to fix it is by stripping or sealing.

Composite Deck Boards Bring a Negative User Experience

Lastly, these decks almost always bring an overall negative experience to homeowners. From slippery to scorching hot surfaces, people often don’t enjoy spending time on their deck. And that’s the opposite you would want from this place.

It’s better to work with wood decks because composite decks are weak, and they even can start to sag because of the weight. Also, you spend a lot of money fixing the different issues, and more importantly, they don’t last as wood decks. 

As you can see, there are many composite decking problems you should be aware of. That’s why many homeowners go for natural wood decks instead. If you need more information about decks, don’t hesitate to call us. We will be more than happy to answer your doubts and questions.

Contact Us!