While many prefer a natural wood deck, others are switching to composite deck material. If you want to go down the DIY path, composite decking is an impressive material created from recycled wood and plastic compounds but crafted to look like all-natural wood.
Building a composite deck involves several steps, from planning and design to the final touches. As avid deck builders, we’ve compiled this guide to help you! If you need help, the experts at UglyDeck are always here to answer your questions.
Why Composite Decking
Composite decks are increasingly a more attractive option for the following reasons:
- Low Maintenance. If you do not want to spend time staining, painting, replacing sections of a deck, and doing other essential maintenance work, composite deck material is the ideal choice
- Personalization. With so many colors available, it’s unlikely you’ll have to paint or stain to match your deck to your home’s exterior.
- Environmentally Friendly. Many composite decks are constructed from recycled material.
- Durable. Current technology is improving the durability of composite decking material against mold, fading, and stains.
Planning Your Deck’s Dimensions
Before we dive into how to build a composite deck, these questions can help you generally plan your deck’s dimensions:
- Where do I attach the deck? You will need a space with relatively level ground that matches the layout and structure of your home. What type of view will you have, and how will you access the deck?
- How much room will the deck provide? Think of what activities you would like to perform on the deck to get an idea of what space you’ll need. Consider what you might put on the deck (i.e., tables, benches, chairs, and a BBQ pit.)
- What deck-to-house proportions should you think about? An overly large deck can overshadow your home, but too small may seem odd next to a large house.
Always order building materials at the correct sizes, and remember many are available in increments of two feet. Keeping the dimensions close to your needs can minimize excess cutting during construction.
Planning Surface Area and Height
The following two important considerations for your DIY deck will be its surface area and height. Most decks are not as deep as they are wide, and the deck length runs parallel to the home. The smallest deck with room for a table will be about 144 square feet or 12’X12’. The average deck area is between 300’ – 400’ square. Some decks will even include multiple levels. A standard dimension used is 12’X24’. Larger decks may include multiple levels, making designating spaces for different projects or activities easier.
Here are some things to consider when planning deck height:
- If you have a deck that lines up with an access door, the height should be 2” more or less than the height of the door frame.
- Ignore the familiar adage that your deck shouldn’t exceed the dimensions of your largest bedroom. Do what’s best for your needs and dreams!
Alright, let’s get into how to build a composite deck.
How to Build a Composite Deck
1. Plan and Design Your Deck
- Determine the Size and Shape: Measure the area where you want to build the deck and think through your answers to the questions above.
- Check Local Building Codes: Ensure you comply with local building codes and obtain necessary permits.
- Choose Materials: Select your preferred type of composite decking. Because composite decking comes in various colors and textures, there are a lot of options to choose from!
2. Gather Your Materials and Tools
Materials
- Composite deck boards
- Joists and beams (usually pressure-treated wood)
- Concrete for footings
- Deck screws or hidden fasteners
- Post anchors
- Gravel (for footings)
- Sealant (for cut ends of composite boards)
Tools:
- Tape measure
- Level
- Circular saw, or miter saw
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver
- Shovel
- Post hole digger
- Safety gear (gloves, safety glasses, ear protection)
3. Prepare the Site
- Clear the Area: Remove any grass, plants, or debris from the site.
- Mark the Layout: Use stakes and string to outline the deck’s perimeter.
- Install Footings: Dig holes for the footings according to your local code requirements. Pour concrete into the holes and set post anchors before the concrete hardens.
4. Build the Frame
- Install Posts: Set the vertical posts in the post anchors. Ensure they are plumb (vertical) and secure them with screws or bolts.
- Attach Beams: Secure the horizontal beams to the posts, ensuring they are level.
- Install Joists: Attach joists perpendicular to the beams, spacing them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations (usually 16” on center).
5. Install Composite Deck Boards
- Cut Boards to Length: Using a circular or miter saw, measure and cut the composite deck boards to the appropriate length.
- Seal Cut Ends: Apply sealant to the cut ends of the boards to prevent moisture damage.
- Lay the First Board: Start at one edge of the deck and lay the first board. Ensure it is straight and attach it to the joists using deck screws or hidden fasteners.
- Continue Laying Boards: Lay the remaining boards, ensuring even spacing and alignment. Use spacers if necessary to maintain consistent gaps between boards.
6. Finishing Touches
- Install Fascia Boards: Attach fascia boards around the deck’s perimeter to hide the framing and give a finished look.
- Add Railings (if required): Install railings according to the manufacturer’s instructions and local building codes. This usually involves setting posts, attaching top and bottom rails, and installing balusters.
- Clean Up: Remove any debris and use a mild soap and water to clean the deck surface.
Our Tips
- Always wear appropriate safety gear when using power tools.
- Double-check all measurements and ensure everything is level and square.
- Different composite decking brands may have specific installation guidelines; always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Curious About DIY Composite Deck Building Costs?
In any deck design project, three factors will affect the cost of building a deck:
- Labor: The costs of hiring a deck-building company to design and construct a deck.
- Materials: This can fluctuate greatly depending on the number of decking accessories and the quality of decking material you choose.
- Size: Larger and/or uniquely shaped decks will typically cost in both more labor and materials.
To help give you a better idea of how much your deck project will cost, our friends at TREX decking materials offer a Deck Cost Calculator. You can also read more about composite deck building costs here.
Some customers approach us with a set budget and a wish list, and we work with them to find the deck solution that works at their price point. Other times, our deck contractors show differing deck projects at various prices to illustrate the available options.
Enjoy Your New Composite Deck
Now that you know how to build a composite deck, you can create a beautiful and durable one that will enhance your outdoor living space for years.
At UglyDeck, we love helping DIYers build their dream deck. We’re always prompt and responsive in providing an exact deck quote for your project. Find out the cost of building a deck on your home by requesting a quote online! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the world of deck building, we aim to be your #1 resource!
