Other related costs include seating, landscaping, heating, etc. Composite decking also comes in different styles and shades. The expansion and contraction process may loosen fasteners and as a result, weaken the structure. The overall cost will also be influenced factors such as the height and the shape of the deck, the style, pattern, the length of the railings, stairs, furniture, lighting, and whether you are demolishing an existing old deck. From treated decking to composite decking, we'll partner with an independent contractor and help you explore all the possibilities for building your dream deck. Decking Installation How to Properly Space Deck Boards. To install composite decking with a hidden fastening system, start at the house by face-screwing the first board. Below are details of the three categories that will help you gain a better understanding of each of them. Whether you’re considering wood or composite deck installation, choosing your decking material is an important step in the process. Composite decking started to gain widespread acceptance in the late 1990s as builders and homeowners began to realize its benefits. For a standard deck of about 16’x20′, a DIY installation will cost you a range of $3300 to $9700. A professional deck builder has probably gone through frustrations and mistakes in the course of their jobs and now knows what to avoid and what works best. This means that it will be safe regardless of wet conditions and moisture. At our heart is a passion for excellent customer service. Let us know what you think of the information provided in this article. Learn where to buy composite decking and the supplies you need to complete your new premium Trex Deck. You will also save money on contractor fees since they will not charge you for the time they will spend purchasing the material. Pressure-treated wood is an inexpensive option, and it’s treated to resist rot, mold and insects. Our local stores do not honor online pricing. In short, you do not need to worry about deforestation issues when it comes to composite decking. If it’s not covered, arrange with your insurance company to have the deck included on the policy cover. You do not need to seal it to protect it from external elements. Using composite decking materials shows that you are environmentally conscious. In fact, if properly maintained, composite decking can last for almost 50 years without getting worn down. Composite decking is a human-made product that has gone through advancements to meet the needs of a homeowner. In general, deck contractors determine labor cost based on a per square foot average for the project. If you are planning on using polypropylene composite decking material, expect to spend about $8.68 per square foot. You can add dining set to include a dining area where your family and friends can sit together and enjoy meals. The choices, as mentioned are endless. Customize your deck to suit your style with deck railings, deck posts and finishing touches like post caps, stair lighting and more. Composite decking is easy to install and leaves the surface with a seamless finish. Some people opt to use traditional wood, but others prefer composite decking. It can last for decades, and you and your family can utilize this wonderful structural for your outdoor activities and enjoyment. The two options are ideal for your decking needs. Composite Decking Installation. Whichever the case, this is an issue that most homeowners struggle with and the decision will be influenced by several factors. Once you have installed your composite decking, you have endless choices of things to do to improve and enhance the extended indoor space. However, unlike hollow boards, solid boards are susceptible to extreme weather fluctuations. They are designed to resemble real wood, and some are molded with wood grains to acquire a textured look like that of natural wood. When installing a composite deck, you need to install it in such a way that it acquires a slight slope to allow proper drainage of water. It’s their daily job, and they will do it with expertise and have the right tools. This additional figure will cater for any additional cost that may come during installation such as challenging patterns and configurations that may take more time than anticipated. Shop around in as many shops for the specific composite decking products for price comparison. Polyethylene composite decking option will cost you an average of $7.82 per square foot. They also come in a variety of colors, giving you the flexibility to choose a color that complements your space. A DIY composite deck installation is possible and cheaper but its more time consuming and quite challenging. With composite decking, once it’s installed, you will not have to spend money on its maintenance. Composite decking is totally water and rot proof, resistant to mould, fungi and other traditional problems facing timber decking. This includes the cost of decking materials such as railings, moorings, and other necessary materials required for the framework. Sometimes the product has the required spacing indicated, therefore make sure you read through the instructions before installing. Solid boards are heavier as compared to their counterparts, hollow boards. In addition, plastic lumber can be designed to look like real wood with a smooth surface or molded with wood grains. Composite decking has been established to be one of the most durable decking materials available in the market today. Just like the name suggests, hollow boards are designed with space in between that looks like ribbed centers. But that’s where we can help. If you are not up for the endless maintenance routine to keep the wood looking presentable, you should consider composite decking. If you are not sure about the spacing, you can consult when purchasing composite decking materials. It’s considered to be the most durable option compared to other types of composite decking. They are functional, and both will give you attractive results. This is the down season for contractors, so the prices of composite decking products are likely to be aggressive with crazy discounts. Next, screw a hidden fastener clip into the groove on top of each joist. You can also plant flowers around the deck to create a visual connection to your garden and improve the aesthetic view of your home. Composite lumber decking is a great low-maintenance alternative to wood. The color variation helps you choose a theme that will enhance or match the exterior design of your home. With this option, you do not have to worry about damages resulting from elements or mold growth. Due to its low maintenance requirement, composite decking saves you from the tedious hours of sanding, sealing, and repairs associated with wood decks. If you would like any of our additional services please ask … Composite decking comes with safety features. Composite decking is a man-made building product made up of mix of wood fibers, plastics and a small amount of bonding agents. A professional on the other hand has specialized in deck building. To watch the decking installation, see the decking portion of our floating deck video. Each decking material has its advantages and disadvantages. More so, you don’t need to treat with any chemicals to protect it. So schedule a consultation and make your dream deck happen with help from us. While at it, do not be afraid to negotiate for better prices and discounts. However, if you love the natural look of wood, composite decking has you covered. Then, slide the groove of the next board into the clips and tighten with a rubber mallet. Wood decks may come with the traditional aura and elegance but, you will also be subjected to frequent splinters in your feet, always washing, sealing, staining and frequent repairs. It is therefore essential to consult your local assessor about the extra charges that you may be required to pay before you start the installation. In addition, this process will save you on labor cost significantly, and you will still be involved in the process of installing your deck. Connect with a Lowe’s associate about your installation or project. It can be a functional space that can be used for entertaining activities with a barbecue place and some even have a complete kitchen and dining area. Your decision will boil down to your requirements and preferences. Whichever way, you can achieve your style with composite decking and significantly improve the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space with minimal effort. Even though plastic lumber is almost 20% more expensive than the other composite options, it is more durable, weather resistance and requires low maintenance. Unlike wood, it will not splinter or crack. A next generation composition and 3G core ensure higher tensile strength and resiliency, while a full protective wrap shield guards against stains, scratches, snow, and sun damage. Their lightweight nature makes it easier for you to transport, lift and position the boards during installation. Then schedule your deck installation with one of our professional independent installers and let the deck building begin. Tell us about your project, or ask us a question. (I do not have the square feet size, but it is the width of the house the long way and L-shaped, with a table and chairs in the "L". With the incredible realistic look of natural timber, Millboard decking provides an external flooring solution without the hassles associated with traditional wood or composite products. Explore other popular Home Services near you from over 7 million businesses … TruOrganics® Composite Decking Step up your outdoor #DeckLife with the rich colors and authentic hardwood texturing of TruOrganics® Composite Decking. Leave the work to our experienced deck fitters! Wood-plastic composite boards, as the name implies, are made of a mixture of wood grain or wood fibre and plastics. Contemporary Railing Installation Video – Composite Balusters – Stairs. When it comes to composite decking installation, as a homeowner you might be conflicted on whether to hire a professional to do it or to save on labor charges by DIY instead. Composite decking, on the other hand, is resistant to mold and algae. Lighting – this is not only a decorative feature great for ambiance but also comes as a safety feature. But before we discuss the benefits of composite decking, let’s find out what composite decking entails. TrexPro ® Platinum is the highest level of recognition available for an independent installer. Whatever you have in mind for your deck, Lowe’s is here to make sure the job gets done the right way. Prices and availability of products and services are subject to change without notice. Labor and installation costs are not included. This decking option encompasses different materials which include wood and plastic, plastic lumber and capped composite. You can alternatively install a small level of concrete curb before installing the fascia board. Your deck installer is here to work with you every step of the way to ensure your deck fits your vision while staying within your budget. A back deck may (or may not) increase your home’s value or attract potential buyers if you’re looking to sell. The differences are minimal, and your choice should be based more on your personal preferences and requirements. The composite decking industry endured some growing pains early on, but materials continue to improve and the number of quality products on the market increases each year. If the contractor is buying materials for your deck, the cost will cover both labor and materials. TREXPRO ® Platinum Deck Installer. Raising the board slightly off the ground will prevent this problem. It also makes it safe for children and pets to play on the surface. Composite decking provides you an opportunity to create an exciting and functional outdoor structure that adds value to your home. Nothing beats the feeling of sitting outside, sipping a drink, and chatting away with your loved ones or just gazing at the stars. Additionally, composite decking products are durable, strong, and require low maintenance. Composite decking products come in an array of colors, so you do not have to limit yourself to one color, the choices are many. Composite decking is an alternative to wood decking that lasts significantly longer as compared to wood. The cost of composite decking will depend on various factors which include brand, the complexity of the decking project, and whether the installation is a DIY or by a licensed contractor. Search our database of Decking Contractor Near Mes specializing in Composite Decking and connect with the best Composite Decking Decking Contractor Near Mes and other Local Contractors Near Me . The average labor cost to install composite decking is $7.52 per square foot.A 24’ x 12’ (288 SF) deck will take an average of 34.5 hours to build with a labor cost of around $2,165 for a deck to be installed on an existing substructure. They will also give you important tips on the best quality that will work better for your structure. And don’t forget about the details. Do your research before settling for a specific company to purchase composite decking products. When planning to install a deck in your, you want it to serve your family for a long time without having to think of frequent renovations or replacements. This is perhaps one the beneficial factors that make composite decking stand out from the other decking materials. You may be contacted by automated means at the email or phone number you provided. As mentioned, the overall cost depends on various factors such as labor, size and the height of the deck among many others. A deck is definitely one of greatest ways to utilize and enhance your outdoor space. Typically, estimates are usually free, so it’s better to get serval estimates and make a price comparison. To learn how to plan the deck and to watch a video of the entire project, see the first part of the series, Planning a Floating Deck. It could even be worked like wood in terms of the tools needed to install it. Comment: I have an all wood deck - L-shaped, square corners, behind the house, both of which are 30 years old. Composite decking or WPC boards, as it is sometimes known, is an alternative to wood decking that is used as an outdoor flooring material. This option does not contain wood and its 100% plastic. When budgeting for composite decking, it’s advisable that you add around 7% to 15% on top of your final budget. In addition, you can make use of the space in between the boards for wiring. Once installed, you do not have to worry about the effects of rain on it like you would with wood decks. For example, you can match the railings color with that of the perimeter boards and use a different color for the posts. When installing composite decking, you need to take measurements for joists spacing first. Composite decking materials are not rigid like real wood, so when being installed, they may not connect well to hide the imperfections in the frame as needed. You can actually end up saving a good percentage of the total cost of materials. Composite decking is picking popularity among homeowners and all for good reasons. If you install the boards without making sure that they are flat, some joists will be higher than others, and this will create a wavy look. Millboard composite decking is virtually maintenance free and is the world’s finest 100% wood-free composite decking. Ecoscape UK offers a full-service of design consultancy and installation to those clients seeking additional help for an outside space which is both beautiful and functional. Some composite brands have protection against UV rays, so it is less likely to fade due to sun rays. 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