Composite decking boards – various types, sizes and colours

Composite decking boards – strength and a natural look in one

Choosing the right materials for building a deck is important for ensuring durability, an attractive appearance and savings on maintenance costs. Composite decking boards have become a popular choice for decking thanks to their many advantages.

What are composite decking boards? Are they weather-resistant? 

Composite decking boards, also known as WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) boards, are a material made from a mixture of wood and plastic. They typically contain around 60% wood (in the form of wood flour) and 40% polymers (plastics). This combination brings together the natural appearance of pure wood with the durability and resistance to changing weather conditions characteristic of plastics. A decking board is a general term, and in our shop you will find composite decking boards (a combination of wood and plastics) as well as timber decking boards.

Advantages of composite decking boards

• Durability and resistance: they are resistant to moisture, so they do not rot or crack. They are also resistant to UV radiation, which means they retain their colour and do not fade in sunlight. Composite decking boards do not warp or shrink as a result of temperature changes.
• Low maintenance costs: they do not require painting, varnishing or preservative treatment, which significantly reduces costs and saves time. They are easy to clean with water and cleaning products or a pressure washer.
• Appearance: they are available in a wide range of colours and patterns, allowing you to match the look of your deck to the style of your garden or home. The boards replicate the appearance of natural wood, offering an elegant, classic design without the typical drawbacks of timber.
• Environmental benefits: many composite decking boards are made from recycled materials. They help reduce deforestation and the production of plastic waste.
• Safety: the surface of composite decking boards is slip-resistant, making them safer to use, particularly in areas exposed to moisture, such as around swimming pools. They are splinter-free, minimising the risk of cuts.
• Installation: composite decking boards are easy to install. They can be cut, drilled and laid in much the same way as natural timber. Bolts and screws can be concealed, further improving the appearance of the finished surface.
• Cost: although the initial cost of composite decking boards may be higher than buying traditional timber, their long-term benefits, such as low maintenance costs and a long lifespan, make them a more cost-effective choice over the years.

Installing a deck using composite decking boards

Installing composite decking boards is relatively straightforward and can be done yourself or with professional help. Here are a few steps to follow:

1. Preparing the base: make sure the base is stable. This may be a concrete slab, gravel or a purpose-built supporting structure. It is important to create falls for water drainage.
2. Installing the supporting structure: use support beams made from durable, moisture-resistant materials, such as aluminium or composite, and secure them at the recommended intervals. Take care to avoid mechanical damage when installing composite decking.
3. Laying the boards: start at one corner of the deck and lay the boards parallel to each other, leaving small gaps between them for water drainage.
4. Finishing: finally, fit finishing trims around the edges of the deck. Check the entire surface to make sure all boards are securely fixed and there are no loose components.

Composite decking – caring for composite decking boards

Caring for, maintaining and cleaning composite decking boards is simple and requires minimal effort. Here are a few tips:

• regular cleaning and maintenance: clean your composite deck every few months using soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Use a pressure washer on a low-pressure setting to remove dirt and stains.
• removing stains: oil, wine or food stains should be removed as soon as possible to prevent permanent staining. Use mild cleaning products designed for composite decking boards. Remember that composite can be cleaned thoroughly if you act in time and use suitable products, such as the gentle detergent mentioned above.
• checking fixings: regularly check screws and fixings to make sure they are secure. Tighten screws or replace damaged components if necessary.

Is a composite decking board better than a timber decking board?

A composite decking board is simply a different decking material – in some respects it is better than a timber board, although natural wood has more admirers when it comes to appearance. Composite decking boards are certainly more durable and need less attention, which is a major advantage.

How should you care for a composite deck to ensure it lasts for years? How long will a composite decking board last?

The simplest way to keep a composite deck looking beautiful is to care for it like an indoor floor. Sweep it and wash it with water and detergent or a pressure washer, and the boards will continue to look just as elegant. The lifespan of a board depends on many factors, but with proper care and maintenance it will last for many years.

Which composite decking board works better: grooved or wood-effect?

A grooved board provides better grip underfoot, while a composite decking board with a wood-grain texture looks much more like the natural material. A wood-effect composite decking board has a more natural appearance.

How wide should the expansion gap between composite decking boards be?

With a correctly fitted installation system, the expansion gap between boards should be around 4 mm. This results from the correct clamping pressure of the fixing clip.

How do you finish the sides of a composite deck?

The sides of a composite deck are finished in the same way as other flat surfaces: by fixing joists to the vertical surface of the deck (its side), then attaching the boards to them.

How long does it take to install composite decking boards?

Installing composite decking boards is one of the quicker jobs, as it does not require specialist skills. Installing around 30 m2 of boards on an existing base takes two working days.

Can a composite decking board be laid directly on the ground?

No, composite decking boards must not be installed directly on the ground or on any other base that is not a joist. In this case, a joist – whether aluminium, timber or composite – is absolutely essential.

How do you install composite decking boards on steps?

Composite decking boards are installed on steps in much the same way as on the sides of a deck or on a top surface. First, the joists need to be fixed in place and secured to the concrete using plugs or another method. Only then are the boards installed.

Is the price of a composite decking board closely linked to its quality?

No, as a rule the price of a board depends on how it is made and its finishing details, so prices can vary. A higher price does not always go hand in hand with better quality. It is worth speaking to an adviser when choosing a board to clear up any doubts.

Where are composite decking boards manufactured?

Composite decking boards are manufactured in China, then transported to Poland and sold. This is due to the nature of the production technology, which is not economically viable in Poland. To avoid astronomical prices, most companies choose to manufacture in China.

Summary – shop for composite decking boards at gardpol.pl

Composite decking boards are a modern solution that combines the appearance of wood with the durability and weather resistance provided by advanced manufacturing technologies. Thanks to the use of wood flour and polyvinyl chloride, composite decking not only retains a natural appearance but is also resistant to moisture, UV radiation and mechanical damage. Easy installation, no need for regular maintenance and a wide range of colours and patterns make a composite deck an investment for years to come. By choosing composite decking boards from our range, you can be confident of high quality, durability and comfort in use, regardless of the weather conditions. It is a solution that lets you enjoy a beautiful, functional deck