Is Wpc Composite Decking Slippery When Wet ?

Winner: Trex

This requires special joist spacing that can be as little as 12 inches, depending on the size and thickness of the decking material. Composites are by far the most popular type of nonwood decking, accounting for 80 percent of all products sold. That's because they contain about 50 percent wood dust from sawmills, in addition to recycled and virgin high-density polyethylene . It also makes the material easier to cut and install than all-plastic decking. Composites do not require a finish of any kind, making them easier to maintain than solid wood. This durable and low-maintenance alternative to wood will never split or rot and requires no paint or finish.

A dry space under the deck is a great place to continue your deck party during a rain shower, or to create some useful dry storage. The best strategy for a slip-resistant deck surface, whether made of wood or composite material, is to perform routine cleaning and maintenance. If you’ve founds some winners here then share them with us. For me, I’m not comfortable trusting the same companies who told us 20 years ago that their product was foolproof and failed that now they’ve REALLY made it foolproof.

Does Trex Or Timbertech Actually Honor Their Warranty?

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. While composite decks can help resist rotting and are considered more durable than wood, it doesn’t mean they’re completely safe from damage. Patio furniture or debris from a passing storm may scratch the surface. Unlike wood, which you can sand and refinish, composite decking can’t be refinished, but in general – you shouldn’t need to. Depending on your budget and the needs of your project there are lots of options available.

When the first composite decking materials were introduced in the 1990s, it was eyed as being the next evolution of the deck-building industry. The first products were made from old shipping pallets and recycled milk cartons, advertised as being something that was 100% resistant to rot. Studies published in the Forest Products Journal in showed that this was not the case. Your boards must receive treatment with a preservative to maximize their potential to fight the natural aging process.

When choosing a composite decking that is less slippery, you should always look for the specific model that has an anti-slip property. If you already have a composite decking installed and you don’t plan on changing it anytime soon, there are a number of ways to increase its surface traction. Some chemicals, lubricating liquids, oil, and grease spills, of course can also make the composite decking surface slippery. So as much as possible, try not to expose your composite decking to these types of liquids. Techwoodn is a leading innovator in wood plastic composite decking boards. Complete your yard with WPC decking, all to help you create a comfortable life.

You should also take into account composite decking brand reviews to see which brand on the market would be the best option for your home, budget and taste. If you seek the durability of composite and the affordability of wood, opt for Basics. This long-lasting decking requires little upkeep and comes in three traditional colors. Trex Enhance® Basics offer fade and stain protection, as well as enhanced mold and mildew resistance, to make maintenance simple. And because the boards are scalloped, they’re as lightweight as lumber, without the extra work. The pros and cons of composite decking show that this material is useful in a variety of different situations. You can simulate the look and feel of natural wood while preserving the environment and reducing your maintenance needs.

Avoid Deck Rot With Flashing Tape

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. Severe scratches and deep gouges are common issues with composite deck products. DuxxBak decking is a unique composite decking that doesn't allow water to pass between the deck boards, keeping the area under the deck dry.

• "If you have any concern with slipperiness, go with a rough-textured composite," says Dr. Prabhat Krishnaswami, vice chair of an ASTM committee on plastic lumber standards.
• "Most plastic boards are smoother on top than composites, which have a rough texture to improve slip resistance," he says.
• One concern about nonwood decking is how slippery it can be when wet.
• “If you have any concern with slipperiness, go with a rough-textured composite,” says Dr. Prabhat Krishnaswami, vice chair of an ASTM committee on plastic lumber standards.

Fiberon takes pride in making the best quality composite decking and railing materials. splits and splinters with age and becomes dangerously slippery when wet.

This disadvantage is the reason why most homeowners opt for the standard installation even if they want a clean look. If you live in an environment where it rains frequently, then choosing composite decking with a non-slip texture could be an investment worth making. Homeowners that plan to install their deck somewhere next to a pool on their property will want to make use of this advantage as well. You’ll still get boards that look like natural wood and install on a pressure-treated frame, but you’ll also be reducing the risk of slipping and falling if your feet are wet. This advantage helps in the winter too if you plan to use your deck as part of your standard entryway. You don’t need any special tools to complete the installation of composite decking either.

Timbertech Composite Decking Color Chart

Plus, most composite products are backed by extended warranties. If you start building a deck from composite materials, then you’ll still need to use pressure-treated wood to maximize the lifespan of the construction. Composite decking is not useful as a structural product. If you don’t use pressure-treated lumber, then the lifespan of the deck is going to be less because the wood will rot out from underneath the boards on top of it eventually. You’ll want to make sure your contractor is not cutting corners on this step by using natural wood with a water-resistant stain.