Building a deck transforms any outdoor space into something special.
Composite decking has become incredibly popular over the years, and for good reason. Unlike traditional wood decking, composite materials combine wood fibers with recycled plastic to create boards that resist fading, splintering, and rotting.
The best part? You get the look of real wood without spending every weekend on maintenance.
Installing composite decking takes some planning and patience, but the results are worth it. Before you start, check with your local building authority to understand local building codes.
Most municipalities require permits for deck construction, and the International Code Council provides guidelines that many jurisdictions follow. Getting this squared away first saves headaches later.
With permits out of the way, here’s how to install composite decking in 5 steps.
1. Get Your Materials Ready
You’ll need more than just composite decking boards to complete this project. The deck frame requires pressure-treated lumber rated for ground contact, especially for posts and joists that sit close to the earth. Pressure-treated wood resists moisture and insect damage much better than standard lumber.
For fastening, you have options. Traditional composite decking screws work, but many homeowners prefer hidden fasteners or deck clips. These universal fasteners hide between boards, creating a clean surface without visible screws. Walking across your deck in bare feet feels better when there aren’t screw heads everywhere.
Other tools you’ll need:
- Circular saw for cutting boards to the desired length
- Drill with appropriate bits
- Chalk line for keeping everything straight
- Tape measure that doesn’t lie
- Safety glasses and gloves because fingers are useful
2. Build a Solid Deck Frame
Your composite deck installation starts with the structure underneath. The frame supports everything, so this step matters tremendously.
Joist spacing for composite boards typically runs at 16 inches on center, though some manufacturers recommend 12 inches. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations because they know their product best.
Attach your joists to the ledger board mounted against your house. Make sure this connection is rock solid. Use appropriate fasteners rated for the materials you’re working with. The outer rim joists complete the frame’s perimeter.
Railing posts need blocking or reinforcement where they’ll attach. Planning these locations now prevents problems when you install railings later.
Some builders add breaker boards perpendicular to the joists at specific intervals. This provides extra support and helps maintain consistent joist spacing across the entire structure.
3. Start the Installation Process
Once your frame is ready, double-check everything before laying the first deck board. Measure twice, cut once applies here more than anywhere. That first board sets the stage for everything that follows.
Position your first board perpendicular to the joists, leaving the recommended gap between the board edge and any vertical surfaces. Thermal expansion causes composite materials to expand and contract, so these gaps matter. Most manufacturers suggest roughly 1/4 inch spacing, but check those recommendations.
If you’re using hidden fasteners, the process goes like this: Secure one side of the first board with screws driven through the board face into the joists. This edge will get covered by trim later. Then install clips along the groove on the opposite side. These installed clips will hold the next board in place.
4. Work Across Your Deck
Begin installing subsequent boards by sliding the groove of each new board onto the clips from the previous one. It takes a little finessing sometimes, but the boards should slide into position without too much force. If you’re fighting it, something’s probably misaligned.
After positioning the next board, install new clips in its open groove. This pattern continues across the entire deck surface. Some installers pre-drill pilot holes for clips to prevent splitting, though many composite decking boards don’t require this.
Watch your layout as you go. Butt joints, where two boards meet on the same joist, should stagger across rows. Having all your joints line up looks awkward and can create weak spots. Plan your board cuts so joints appear random throughout the installation.
Cutting composite boards works much the same way as cutting wood. A circular saw with a carbide-tipped blade makes clean cuts. Composite material does create more dust than real wood, so a mask helps. Cut notches around posts or obstacles carefully, measuring multiple times.
5. Apply Finishing Touches
The final board often requires face screwing similar to your first one, since you can’t use clips on that edge. Trim pieces cover these visible screws and create a finished appearance around the deck perimeter. This trim also covers the ends of deck boards, giving everything a polished look.
Composite deck installation includes proper ventilation underneath. Air circulation prevents moisture buildup that can damage your pressure-treated wood frame over time. Make sure nothing blocks airflow around and under your structure.
Installing railing systems comes after the deck surface is complete. Most composite decking manufacturers offer matching railing components that complement their boards perfectly. These systems typically include posts, balusters, and top rails that create a cohesive look.
Maintenance Requirements
One major advantage of composite materials over wood decking is less maintenance. You won’t spend hours sanding, staining, or sealing every year. Composite boards just need occasional cleaning with soap and water. Stubborn stains might require a specialized composite deck cleaner, but that’s about it.
These materials contain recycled materials, which makes them an environmentally conscious choice. You’re keeping plastic and wood waste out of landfills while creating a beautiful outdoor space that lasts for decades.
The Reality of DIY Installation
Reading through all these steps, you might feel confident about tackling this yourself. Or you might be thinking there’s a lot that could go wrong. Both reactions are completely valid.
Successful installation requires time, proper tools, and attention to detail at every stage. One miscalculation with your frame’s joist spacing affects the entire project.
Incorrect gaps between composite boards can cause buckling or excessive movement. Even something as simple as not following the manufacturer’s recommendations for fasteners can void warranties.
Professional installers work with these materials constantly. They know how composite boards behave in different temperatures, how to handle tricky cuts around posts and corners, and how to create a deck that looks amazing while meeting all code requirements.
Let the Professionals Handle It
At Hard Decks, we’ve installed countless composite decks throughout the area.
Our team understands the nuances of working with different composite decking brands and can help you choose the right materials for your specific situation. We handle permits, ensure code compliance, and deliver finished projects that you’ll enjoy for years.
Why spend your weekends wrestling with deck building when you could be relaxing with family? Call us at +1 (815) 706-4648 or message us here to discuss your project. We’ll transform your outdoor space into something truly special while you focus on more important things.