Installing composite decking can seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance, you can achieve a professional and durable result in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast looking to enhance your outdoor space or simply aiming to create a low-maintenance deck that lasts for years, this guide will walk you through the process of installing composite decking in three easy stages. In this blog, we’ll cover everything from preparing the foundation and building the joist structure to the final touches that ensure your decking looks great and performs well. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the first step!
Tools Needed:
- Electric Drill
- Electric Screwdriver
- Measuring Tape
- Cutting Machine
- Safety Glasses (for cutting protection)
- Hammer
- Level
- Gloves
- Spacers
- And more if you usually use.
Step 1: Preparing the Foundation and Joists
The 1st step in installing Composite Decking is to ensure that you have a perfectly level base for the joist framework. This is essential for long-term stability and durability. To achieve a level base, there are 3 possible solutions:
- A perfectly self-leveling concrete surface: This is ideal and requires minimal adjustment.
- A slightly uneven concrete surface: In this case, use stainless steel or wood-plastic thin sheets to adjust the area and achieve a level joist layout.
- Using adjustable-height joists: For areas where a raised platform is needed, adjustable-height joists can create a sturdy base above the ground, which is particularly useful for uneven terrain.
Once the foundation is level, the joists can be securely fixed to the ground using an electric drill and expansion screws.
Important Notes During Joist Installation:
1. If the starting edge is against a solid structure like a wall, leave a 1-2 cm gap to allow for the thermal expansion of the decking. This prevents the decking from buckling as it expands in warmer conditions.
2. When connecting joists in a straight line, leave at least a 1-2 cm gap between them.
3. Additional joists should be placed at both the starting and ending points of the decking area to ensure proper support and prevent sagging.
4. Pre-calculate the spots where two decking boards will meet, and make sure to install two joists side by side in those locations to provide adequate weight support.
Tip: While constructing the framework, use a measuring tape and level regularly to ensure accuracy. For optimal durability, we recommend that the joist spacing should be no more than 35 cm apart, with each joist kept parallel and level.
Step 2: Installing the Decking
Before proceeding with the decking installation, double-check the joist framework. Pay particular attention to where two decking boards will connect, ensuring that you’ve installed two joists side by side in these areas to support the boards.
Once you’re ready to begin, there are 2 options for fixing the 1st row of decking:
- Use dedicated stainless steel clips to secure the first row of decking.
- Alternatively, screw the boards diagonally (at a 45° angle) into the joists from the side.
When connecting decking boards in a straight line, make sure to leave a small gap between each board. This gap is essential for allowing for expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
If a decking board is too long for the designated space, measure the excess length and use a cutting machine to trim it to the correct size. Tip: You can also use a handsaw, but this requires more skill and precision. Always measure carefully before cutting.
Spacing Between Decking Boards Based on Temperature:
Temperature fluctuations affect the expansion and contraction of the decking material. To ensure proper spacing, consider the temperature difference between summer and winter in your location.
For a temperature difference of 10°C:
- 2.9m decking: Leave 2mm of space
- 5.8m decking: Leave 4mm of space
For a temperature difference of 50°C:
- 2.9m decking: Leave 8mm of space
- 5.8m decking: Leave 15mm of space
- For locations with large temperature fluctuations, it’s best to avoid using excessively long boards (e.g., longer than 3m). Always adjust the spacing based on the expected temperature differences in your region.
If you are not sure about how much space you need to leave, you can mail us as well.
Once the 1st row of decking is installed, use the dedicated clips provided by your supplier to keep consistent spacing between the subsequent rows. This is a simple process: just install the clips over each joist and secure them with screws. If using stainless steel or aluminum joists, you may need to pre-drill holes for the screws.
At the final row, secure the decking in the same way as the first row, either using specialized end clips or by drilling screws at a 45° angle.
Step 3: Finishing the Edges and Stairs
Once the decking is fully installed, you may wish to enhance the appearance of the edges. This can be done with edge strips or PVC corner fittings provided by your supplier. This is a simple process:
- Use smaller screws to secure the strips.
- If installing corner pieces, cut them at a 90° angle using the cutting machine. For rounded corners, specialized accessories may be needed.
If you use adjustable-height joists to create a raised platform, you can further beautify the sides by attaching WPC panels with screws.
Staircase Installation:
For projects that involve stairs, the same principles apply. Decking can be installed on both horizontal and vertical stair surfaces. Since stair surfaces are usually narrower, you may need to make additional cuts using a cutting machine to ensure the decking fits perfectly. For the edges of the stairs, use WPC 90° edge strips to create a clean, polished look.
Small Tips for Installation:
- Cleaning Wood Dust: If you accumulate a lot of wood dust on your skin during the installation, it’s best to wash it off with cold water. Avoid using hot or warm water, as it can open pores and may cause irritation or itching.
- Eye Safety: If wood dust gets into your eyes, flush them immediately with a large amount of cold water. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
- Proper Spacing for Temperature Variations: Be sure to choose the correct decking gap based on local temperature differences. To make installation easier, prepare spacer blocks of the correct thickness ahead of time.
Conclusion
While installing Composite Decking may seem like a straightforward task, achieving a smooth, durable, and visually appealing result requires skill and attention to detail. If you’re a DIY enthusiast, this project can be very rewarding, and you’ll likely enjoy the process. However, if you prefer a professional touch or are unsure about certain aspects of the installation, it’s always a good idea to consult with or hire a professional to assist you.
If you have any questions about your decking installation or need help with any step of the process, feel free to reach out to us anytime. We are here to ensure your project is a success!
