How to Build an Environmentally Friendly Deck Using Composite Decking

Build an environmentally friendly deck by using composites. Composite decking is made from recycled plastic and wood shavings. By combining these two waste products into a unique building material composites are actually good for the environment. Composites reduce the amount of material entering our landfills while at the same time providing a low maintenance building product. Now you can actually feel good about building your deck.

Constructing a deck with composites is not that much different than when using wood. Be sure to use straight, dry wood for the sub-structure. Either treated or non-treated wood may be used. Composites need to have support every sixteen inches or less. In contrast, wood can span a 24 inch space. Be sure to check with your local building department for any building codes that must be met.

Once the sub-structure is built it is time to install the surface material. Unlike wood, composites are not affected by humidity. But composite decking will expand and contract greatly with temperature changes. When installing composite decking it is recommended that you use hidden fasteners. Hidden deck fasteners look better than screws and some of them are even able to withstand the contraction and expansion that takes place with composite decking. Deck screws, even those especially designed for composite decking, can work their way up over time as the decking expands and contracts. And, with screws the decking can split at the ends even if it has been pre-drilled. These problems are avoided with hidden fasteners.

Hidden deck fasteners can be easy to install. Attach the concealed fasteners to the bottom of the deck boards. Place the decking in place and attach the fasteners to the joists. There is no need to use grooved decking or any special tools. No biscuit-jointers or sledgehammers are required. The entire installation can be done from above the deck. And, the hidden fasteners will expand and contract with temperature changes.

By using invisible deck fasteners that are designed for composite decking you can have a clean deck surface unmarred by screws or nails. Hidden deck fasteners that are designed for composite decking do not cost that much more than screws. There are no special tools required and there is no pre-drilling. And, there is no penetration to either the sides or the tops of the decking. Composite deck fasteners allow you to have a beautiful deck that is actually good for the environment.

Jeff Van Fleet works for Mild Fence Company LLC in Kalispell, Montana. They are the largest fence/deck contractor in the state. Mild Fence Company is the exclusive distributor of the Aphano hidden deck fastener made specifically for composite and PVC decking. Learn more about the Aphano fastener at http://www.aphanofasteners.com

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