Is Composite Decking Slippery When Wet?

Winner: Trex

There are pros and cons to both materials and plenty of options to choose from at the home improvement store. Whether you plan to DIY the deck yourself or hire a professional, it’s important to do your research before investing in any type of composite or wood products for your project. In this article we’ll take look at composite decking vs. wood to help you save time and money and make the best decision. In 2014, we noticed a change to the Trex decking installation instructions. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t find a paint that will adhere to the plastic-capped composite decking, but you will almost certainly void your warranty by doing so. Nonetheless, if you’re slipping on your synthetic wood deck, voiding the warranty is the least of your worries.

Most manufacturers provide a 25-year warranty for the stain and against fading when you choose this option. If you use real wood for your decking material, then you’ll need to sand and stain it periodically to preserve it.

Does Trex Or Timbertech Actually Honor Their Warranty?

Since both products are nearly identical, for us it’s all about the style, price and color options. It’s a tough decision to make and really depends on the individual. The difference between the two brands is very slim without any major drawbacks or advantages.If you have any questions or comments e-mail us any time. Never paint or stain over dirty surfaces or surfaces with mold and mildew.

When you start shopping around to look at the various deck brands, you’ll discover that there is a wide range of warranty options. The best choice you can make with your composite decking is to choose an item that comes with a fade and stain warranty. If you don’t have this option, then you have every right to question the longevity of the boards that you purchase. When you’re in that situation, the use of hidden fasteners can become a disadvantage rather quickly. You’ll need to disconnect the entire board from underneath, which can mean removing multiple boards to get to the one in question.

These are algae or fungal growth, molds, or mildew, which can make the surface slippery. Molds do not grow on composite decks, but pollen, leaves or other debris on decks can cause mold. At SlipDoctors we stock Floor Grip, the ideal anti-slip product for composite decking. This product will not change the look of your decks, is easy to apply and incredibly cost-effective.

Even when wet, wood deck surfaces typically present less risk for slipping than composite deck boards -- unless they become dirty and neglected. This Old House general contractor Tom Silva has his own method of fastening nonwood deck boards — both solid and hollow — that achieves the same clean look. He secures each plank with dabs of marine-grade polyurethane adhesive placed wherever the decking crosses a joist . He randomly nails or screws the boards in place while the glue sets. "I was pleasantly surprised the first time I worked with this material," he says. "You don't have to worry about the splinters or dust you get with wood. Plus, you won't ever have to replace the boards."

Avoid Deck Rot With Flashing Tape

Choose composite deckings that have grooved or rough-textured surfaces as this improves grip and is less likely to be slippery. Composite decking on the other hand has a low water absorption rate. Most of which comes with a capstock coating or capping material around the surface, made of vinyl, that repels liquid better.

• Without this step, the natural wood fibers will still begin to disintegrate, which can leave uncomfortable plastic fibers sticking out of your deck over time, creating a walking hazard.
• 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.
• A major benefit of composite decking is that you will never have to stain, seal or paint it like wood materials.

The process is exactly the same as it would be for a standard wood product. Once you have the frame built and attached to the primary structure, you just start laying the boards down horizontally, vertically, or diagonally based on your overall preference. While early composite decks were very sensitive to temperature and did get notoriously hot, any new composite decking will be much more resistant to heat. High-quality modern composite boards don't become hotter than traditional wooden deck boards. Composite decking has been around since the early ’90s.

Slip & Fall Problems Areas On Synthetic Wood

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.

How To Stop Decking Being Slippery In Winter

Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me. We purchased our current home, as new, nearly 18 years ago. It came with a deck that was made with early type (uncapped?) composite decking. The spindles and posts were also made of the same material.