composite. Some kits are available that provide everything you need for this type of repair. TimberTech also didn't show the scratch because of its thick polyurethane cap. This works by blending the scratched and non-scratched areas together. So, use a sample board and do some practice passes first, but you should see that minor scratches are diminished in appearance with that heat gun. stand up to regular abuse. See the best composite decking brands of 2020. I invited my friend Matt Risinger from The Build Show to come out to the TimberTown Austin location to put these boards to the test. A quality composite deck can cost two to three times more than a pressure treated wood deck. The surface of the boards can be scratched rather easily. When going this route, make sure you use a product that the manufacturer of your decking material approves. You can also subscribe without commenting. With a few composite decking scratch Lastly, Azek could be scratched, but we learned that when using a heat gun you can diminish the appearance of some of those scratches. Email: customerservice@builddirect.com, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Google+ (Opens in new window), Different Types of Composite Decking: Hollow vs Solid Core Boards, Grooved vs Ungrooved Composite Decking: What’s the Difference, By continuing to browse this website, you agree to the use of cookies for the collection of traffic statistics and to improve the quality of our website. Trex does not recommend using a power washer on your decking, and most composite deck manufacturers feel the same way. particularly true if you’re using the heat method. winters and sizzling summers. However, it will last two to three times longer, require no seasonal staining or sealing, be splinter free, mold resistant, scratch resistant, fade resistant, and stain resistant. Splitting, cracking and rotting boards are never a problem for composite decks. The good news is that As your deck ages, you’re more and more likely to see scratches simply from standard wear and tear as well. A question to answer a question: if you are a homeowner with hardwood floors, does it drive you crazy when you notice a scratch? TimberTech delivers the best scratch resistant composite decking so that scratches — plus mold, mildew, and fading — don’t stand a chance. Those who answer yes are wise to consider what options they have when considering composite decking. Composite decking needs less maintenance than wood decking, but it can still be scratched. If you have holes or burns in the decking you can use this same method. If you have a larger scratch, dent, or dings, it is best to replace the entire board. change in seasons may help eliminate your scratch or make it much less visible plywood), but capped composite lumbers designed for decking didn’t really come onto the market until the ’90s. For this, you’ll use a heat gun about 8″ to 12″ away from the scratch. Scratching: Composite decking is made of a combination of wood and plastic. the natural fade of any exterior material. Never use metal shovels or sharp-edge tools when removing snow or ice from your composite or PVC deck. I built my deck last fall before it snowed so I didnt by furniture. Someday, the industry may be able to create a consistent long-lasting product that lives up to the claims, but right now, they can’t seem to Plastic shovels or plastic/nylon bristled deck brooms should be used to easily remove snow from the deck and will limit the risk of scratches to the deck surface. these scratches are in high foot-traffic areas like walkways that lead to your For the most part, 'routine' scratches won't even be noticeable, but it's the deeper scratches that you'll probably want to cover up. There’s a good chance 4 things to know about composite decking Composite decking has grown in popularity over the past few years. More and more people are adopting it for their decks, especially because of its eco-friendly nature. Try the heat method. In fact, in a couple of spots we held kept the heat gun in place too long and could see that board start to melt and even char. Composite decking is made up of a combination of wood scraps and recycled plastic which prevents the material from rotting. T he material is not indestructible. Not sure what sort of composite deck material is right for your exterior spaces? Once your deck is properly fixed, there are steps you can take to avoid scratches in the future. Today there are many different brands and colors available They can also provide cleaning, care and maintenance tips in many cases. Beyond the initial premium cost of composite decking, the cost of maintaining, replacing and simply hating the mess other products can turn into is worth a run through the calculator. Composite decking, like … Decking Scratch Test: Azek vs. TimberTech vs. Ipe vs. Cedar. Composite lumber is fairly popular in construction (i.e. Even the most resilient boards could be scratched or gouged. We take Azek and Trex decking and put them to the scratch test. repair tips in your back pocket, you can take on minor nicks and even some more Scratch Resistant: Many Composite decking choices have a wood grain pattern etched into the surface. Over time though, you started to notice that your deck has small scratches in certain areas. Does Composite Decking Scratch Easily? Composite decking is designed to be durable and stand up to any test mother nature can come up with. To learn more, please consult BuildDirect's. interior access point. scratches do occur. though. TimberTech decking boards are made of durable composite lumber that resists fading, rotting and cracking. A composite deck board is largely made of plastic but uses real wood by-products in the mix including sawdust. Call: 1-877-631-2845
The reality is that even the best composite decking materials can end up scratched. Does composite decking scratch easily? For early generation composite decking … With a To replicate what you would typically see on a scratched deck board, Matt took a screw and uniformly scratched each of the surfaces. Capped composite has a hard plastic shell around a wood/plastic composite core. Here are a few ways to keep scratches at bay and maintain your deck: Composite decking If you have a small scratch or chip, use a composite deck repair kit. Here are the top 5 myths about composite decking, updated for 2017. Avoid this problem by buying extra composite decking material when you shop the first time. Composite decking has been a popular option in recent years. moisture that gets trapped. scuff or scratch can do more harm than good if you’re not careful. Ipe, which is a very dense Brazilian hardwood, barely shows the scratch made by the screw. Trex decking requires far lower maintenance than wood decking, but does require some maintenance to keep it looking good throughout the years, much like washing your car. Find the answers to your home improvement questions. As your deck ages, you’re more and more likely to see scratches simply from standard wear and tear as well. Your email address will not be published. Composite decking material is very strong and resilient, but issues can arise in some cases. Often, in five to ten years time, the relative costs (think powerwashing, waterseal, stain, weekend-filling chores) even out. Composite decking can easily handle winter weather such as snow. Composite was first introduced to the decking industry in the 1990s and is quickly growing in popularity. Repetitious It is made by melting wood fibers, plastic, and coloring together. To avoid your deck having the same fate, choose scratch resistant decking. We understand composite decking and of years of experience can help you create an outdoor space that’s truly spectacular whether you’re building from the ground up or taking on a home renovation project. This combination is intended to reduce chance of rot and extend the life of the deck. They’re also relatively easy to repair when What Does “Composite Decking” Mean? deck: Fill nicks and scratches with an epoxy-based filler and a putty knife. As your deck ages, the scratch may simply blend in much better with Reach out to us so one of our trained representatives can help you today. If you notice a scratch or damaged area on your Trex decking, fret not! - newtown, ct…,11 feb 2016. composite decking does not absorb water. Here are some methods you can use to fix scratches on your composite Maybe you’re not finding the look you’re after? Here are a few of the most common reasons a composite With composite decking, a Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. 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