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Composite Decking Considerations-Maintenance & Fasteners

Thu 01 Feb 2007 - 12:31

Composite Decking Considerations-Maintenance & Fasteners
By Darrell Suchocki

Choosing the right decking material will contribute to the beauty and maintenance of your deck.

Consider this fact, make sure your will be using the correct decking material for your local climate, taking into account such factors as humidity and temperature to ensure enjoyment and a long-lasting deck.

Above all, remember that research and knowledge about your future project is important to make a wise buying decision you will not regret.

If your choice is to build the deck with wood, your choice can be redwood, cedar or an exotic material of many choices which are fire resistant and will resists splitting and warping. Tip: Before the project begins, make sure your deck material (or wood) is acclimated and dry in reference to your current weather conditions.

Fasteners for your Deck Do Make a Difference:

Do you like nail or screws to show on the tops of the decking or would you prefer using clips on the edges of the decking to hold down the boards. Clips will not be seen, so the surface of the deck will be all wood, no screws or nails. Hidden deck-fasteners are readily available, and can be researched on the web . Here is a quote from a popular brand of hidden fasteners; " Our fasteners are the most reliable, long-lasting fasteners on the market. They are manufactured in the United States and made of ultra-violet resistant polypropylene. They can't rust, and they're guaranteed to last 100 years with normal use".

More advantages of hidden deck fasteners:

  • Fasteners also help prevent premature wood rotting around fastener while creating a clean look from above.

  • Help keep labor costs down. (Compared to other hidden deck fastening systems) Will not corrode like galvanized deck fasteners.

  • No special tools needed to install.

  • Easily installs for the average homeowner.

    The Future of Composite Decking Technology is constantly changing and so are composite decks because of consumers desire for this product. So composite decking was created. Composites are usually smooth with a wood grain type of texture, and will not splinter and are comfortable on bare feet. Maintenance is easy too and can resemble the look of tropical hardwood. Other choices of decking other than wood, are plastic and vinyl decking.

    Protect Your Investment

    All decks need periodic maintenance and cleaning. Consult the instructions of the manufacturer as to what you can do and not do to maintain your deck properly. Pressure washing is usually permissible to keep your composite decking clean. Deck cleaners are also useful for getting rid of muddy footprints. General maintenance includes weekly sweeping of your deck. Especially sweep the deck during pollen seasons, because pollen creates a surface film and can allow mildew to grow on that surface. If your deck is attacked by mildew, you can use any one of several cleaners specifically made to eradicate the problem. You can use bleach and dishwasher detergent in warm water to remove small black mildew spots.

    How about occasional spills, grease spots, etc? If such spills and spots appear, you can use any heavy-duty grease remover. Wood bleach will get rid of rust marks from metal porch furniture, toys, etc. Composite decking does have some drawbacks but has beauty. With regular maintenance you have a nice deck for many years to come.

    Darrell Suchocki invites you to benefit form his 25 years of experience in the construction trades as a builder and flooring installer and home water damage. See his website at http://decks-n-floors.com/ for comprehensive information about flooring and decks to make better home improvement buying decisions. Plus see other articles related to the home construction trade. http://decks-n-floors.com/

    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darrell_Suchocki

    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darrell_Suchocki
    http://EzineArticles.com/?Composite-Decking-Considerations-Maintenance-and-Fasteners&id=432443


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