5 Disadvantages of Composite Decking and How to Avoid Them

Let’s face it, composite decking is fantastic. It’s durable, low-maintenance, and looks great. But like anything in life, it’s not without its challenges. If you’ve invested in composite decking, or you’re thinking about it, it’s worth knowing about the potential issues you might face and how to tackle them. 

Already dealing with issues? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Let’s dive into the most common problems with composite decking and how you can sort them out.

Fading

One of the most frequent concerns we hear about is fading; you’ve chosen a beautiful colour for your deck, and the last thing you want is for it to lose its vibrancy.

What Causes Fading?

The main culprit here is UV radiation from sunlight. Over time, prolonged exposure can cause the colour of your deck to fade. Some lower quality composite decking materials are more susceptible to this than others.

How to Fix Fading

Unfortunately, once fading has occurred, it’s not always possible to restore the original colour. However, there are steps you can take to prevent further fading:

• Use UV-resistant sealants: These can help protect your deck from sun damage. 
• Install awnings or pergolas: These provide shade and reduce direct sunlight exposure. 
• Choose high-quality composite decking: Premium products often have better UV resistance.

If you’re in the market for top-notch composite decking that stands up well to UV exposure, check out our range at Dino Decking; we offer the best price for composite decking without compromising on quality.

Mould and Mildew

Another issue that can crop up with composite decking is mould and mildew. While composite decking is more resistant to these problems than wood, it’s not entirely immune.

Causes of Mould and Mildew

Mould and mildew thrive in damp, shaded areas, so if your deck doesn’t dry out properly after rain or if it’s in a particularly shady spot, you might find yourself dealing with this issue.

How to Remove Mould and Mildew

Tackle mould and mildew as soon as you spot it. Here’s how:

Mix warm water with a mild soap or a composite deck cleaner and scrub the affected area with a soft-bristled brush, before rinsing thoroughly with clean water. For stubborn spots, you might need to use a specialised composite deck cleaner.

Preventing Mould and Mildew

To keep mould and mildew at bay:

• Ensure proper ventilation under and around your deck. 
• Clean your deck regularly to remove dirt and debris. 
• Trim nearby vegetation to reduce shade and improve air circulation.

Staining

Stains can be a bit of a pain, especially if you love entertaining on your deck. But don’t panic, most stains can be dealt with effectively.

Common Causes of Staining

The usual suspects include food and drink spills, leaf tannins, and grease from BBQs.

Cleaning Stains

For most stains:

Act quickly – the sooner you tackle a stain, the easier it is to remove. Use warm, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush for general stains. For tougher stains, use a cleaner specifically designed for composite decking. Always test any cleaning product on a small off-cut first.

Tips for Preventing Stains

To minimise staining:

• Clean spills immediately. 
• Use mats under BBQs and planters. 
• Consider applying a stain-resistant sealer to your deck.

If you want to learn about composite decking in more detail, including its stain-resistant properties, we’ve got a comprehensive guide on our website that you can check out above.

Scratching and Surface Damage

While composite decking is pretty tough, it can still get scratched or damaged if you’re not careful.

Causes of Scratching

Common culprits include dragging heavy furniture, pet claws, and grit or stones trapped under shoes.

Repairing Scratches

For minor scratches:

Use a wire brush to gently brush in the direction of the grain. For deeper scratches, you might need to replace the affected board.

Preventing Scratches

To keep your deck looking its best:

• Use furniture pads under table and chair legs.
• Sweep your deck regularly to remove grit and debris.
• Consider using outdoor rugs in high-traffic areas.

Warping and Expansion

Composite decking is designed to be stable, but in some cases, you might notice some warping or expansion.

Reasons for Warping and Expansion

This can happen due to:

Improper installation, particularly if expansion gaps weren’t left. Extreme temperature fluctuations. Moisture absorption (more common in older or lower-quality composite decking).

Addressing Warping and Expansion Issues

If you notice warping or expansion:

• Check that water is draining properly from your deck. 
• Ensure there’s adequate ventilation underneath the deck.

In severe cases, you might need to replace affected boards.

Preventing Warping and Expansion

To avoid these issues:

Ensure your deck is installed correctly, with proper spacing between boards and choose high-quality composite decking (like ours) that’s designed to minimise expansion and contraction.

Structural Issues

While not strictly a problem with the decking itself, structural issues can affect the overall performance and safety of your deck.

Identifying Structural Problems

Watch out for:

• Wobbling or movement when walking on the deck. 
• Loose railings or balusters. 
• Visible sagging or uneven areas.

Addressing Structural Issues

If you suspect structural problems:

Don’t ignore them – structural issues can be dangerous. Inspect the underlying structure, including joists and support posts. If in doubt, call in a professional to assess and repair the deck.

Final Thoughts

While these issues might sound discouraging, remember that composite decking is still one of the most durable and low-maintenance options out there, and most of these problems can be prevented with proper installation and regular maintenance.

If you’re considering composite decking for your outdoor space, or if you need advice on maintaining your existing deck, we’re here to help. Our team of experts can guide you through choosing the right product, installation, and maintenance to ensure your deck stays looking great for years to come.