blog-banner

Are you looking for a contractor?

Submit our quick form and get quotes now!

Everything to Know About Installing Composite Decking

By RenoQuotes.com

Updated on July 20, 2024

Composite wood is a great material to consider for building an outdoor structure. It’s a fair alternative to natural wood given its optimized composition designed to withstand the ever-changing weather conditions. 

Let’s take an in-depth look at this material, its price point, and its installation and maintenance techniques for optimal care. 

What Is Composite Wood?

patio en composite_Le patio en composite : prix, installation et entretien

True to its name, composite wood is a material stemming from an amalgamation of different components:

  • Wood fibres

  • Recycled plastic

  • Artificial polymers

All particles used in its making are combined using adhesive products. When used as decking, the boards are very similar to that of genuine wood planks. The finish is often a little more uniform, but the warmth and coziness of natural wood remain. 

patio en composite_Le patio en composite : prix, installation et entretien

What Are the Pros and Cons of Composite Decking?

Retailed since the 1980s, composite wood has definitely proven its worth over the years. So much so that it’s now commonly used across North America. It’s often used as decking, whether that be for a balcony, closed-in porch, veranda, or any other outdoor patio-like surface.

Here’s a list of its advantages:

  • Humidity-resistant

  • Waterproof (prevents fungi growth and is rot-proof)

  • Long service life

  • Non-slip surface (ideal for tiling around a pool or hot tub)

  • Decking won’t be scorching after long sun exposure

  • Retailed in a wide array of shades and finishes

Yet, there are also a few drawbacks linked to this sort of product:

  • Steep upfront costs: While it’s not the most expensive decking material, it’s certainly not the most affordable product either. It’s a long-term investment.

  • Its weight: Composite decking is rather heavy, which makes it harder to lug around.

  • The look of composite decking can’t be altered with paint or stain, as neither product adheres to its surface given the plastic found in its composition.

patio en composite blanc_Le patio en composite : prix, installation et entretien

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Composite Deck?

Costs vary between $6.50–$9.50/square foot for materials; and $60–$85/square foot for installation. On average, to build a 150-square-foot deck, paying roughly $8,250 isn’t too out of the ordinary. 

However, said amount may waver based on the time of year during which you’re planning on carrying out your project, labour costs in your area, as well as several other factors that render presenting a concrete price more difficult.

If you want to learn more about budgetary matters, feel free to try out of cost estimator for your decking project.  

You can also check out our article comparing different decking material costs:

As you’ll come to find out, composite wood isn’t the most expensive material, nor the most cost-effective choice on the market. It’s a decent option for all homeowners with mid- to high-range project budgets looking to get their money’s worth. 

patio en composite gris_Le patio en composite : prix, installation et entretien

How to Build a Composite Deck: Guidelines

Note that the best possible course of action is to commission your deck building and installation project with expert deck installation services. Nevertheless, you should still familiarize yourself with the different project-specific steps:

  • Design patio or deck

  • Obtain building permit with municipal authorities

  • Purchase materials

  • Build the deck’s foundation

  • Install posts

  • Attach beams

  • Add structural supports

  • Build the deck’s frame

  • Add joists

  • Install decking boards

  • Add stairs (if planned for)

  • Install railing

The list above is a brief rundown of all installation guidelines for a composite deck. Your hired contractor will be familiar with all material peculiarities and the different steps involved in installing the structure properly. 

Additionally, note that this sort of deck needs adequate ventilation. The structure has to be installed at least 12 inches off the ground. The gap can be concealed using lattices or another material that allows for good airflow. 

What Type of Contractor Should I Hire for My Project?

Once you’ve landed on this sort of decking for your deck-building project, your next step will be finding the right contractor for the job.

In Quebec, if your deck is attached to your house, the hired contractor needs to hold a valid RBQ-issued licence. Note that a contractor holding a general licence can also legally carry out such work and sign the related paperwork. 

However, if you’re hoping to have a freestanding deck, hiring a licensed contractor isn’t mandatory.

Note that all RenoQuotes.com affiliated contractors have verified licences.

patio en composite sur le bord de l'eau_Le patio en composite : prix, installation et entretien

What Is There to Know About Regular and Yearly Deck Maintenance

As mentioned, one of the upsides to composite decking is its low maintenance. Its surface is waterproof and easy to clean. Throughout the summer, simply use a soft-bristled brush, a rag, and a bit of gentle soap to remove most stains.

In terms of yearly maintenance, you can choose to apply a mould guard over the surface. However, prior to purchasing a product and using it, ask your deck manufacturer whether the product in question works on composite decking.

During the winter, there are no real protective measures for your composite deck. The main guideline by which you should abide is carefully shovelling the snow off the surface to avoid scuffing the decking.

Carefully pore over the manufacturer’s product guidelines as some decking is suited to de-icers, while others are not.

What Other Materials Can You Use to Build a Deck?

Want to discover other deck-building materials worth your consideration prior to choosing one? Here are just a few:


Get 3 quotes for your deck or patio building project

RenoQuotes.com can help you get quotes for your deck and balcony project. When you submit your project, we’ll connect you with top-rated contractors. Fill in the form on the homepage (it only takes a few minutes) and receive estimates from trusted professionals.

Dial 1-844 828-1588 to speak with one of our customer service representatives.

Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Looking for something else?

Table of contents

4 min read

Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Are you a contractor?

Join our network and receive real leads!

Download the price guide for renovations

We’ll be emailing you the latest market price guide for renovations.



Related articles

The latest industry news, interviews, technologies, and resources.

6 min read

RenoQuotes.com • 07 Nov 2023

How to Fireproof Your Home

Your home is important, providing a place to nest, offering shelter to loved ones and giving you a space to rest your head. Of course, to make sure your house is in good working order, you need to keep everything in good shape while working with the best materials.

Exterior renovations
6 min read

RenoQuotes.com • 01 Aug 2024

Price of Fibre Cement Siding and Installation Guide

Are you considering installing fibre cement siding during your next renovation project? While the motivational factors behind such an undertaking are likely plenty, you may still be hoping to get pertinent information about the cost of installing such a siding to make a well-informed decision. 

Exterior renovations
7 min read

RenoQuotes.com • 16 May 2024

How to Install Railings on a Deck

Is your deck finally ready but you’re still on the fence about what kind of railing best suits what you’re looking for?

4 min read

RenoQuotes.com • 03 Jun 2024

Plasterer: Ins and Outs of the Trade

Are you looking for a new career in building and public works, but aren’t sure which trade to turn to? Plastering could be it! A plasterer is an individual who specializes in and performs ceiling and wall preparation work and installation.

6 min read

RenoQuotes.com • 22 May 2024

Modular Homes as a Solution to the Housing Crisis

The housing crisis has been a pressing issue in Ontario for several years now, with rising prices and low availability making it increasingly difficult for residents to find affordable and suitable housing. In response to this, modular homes or housing have emerged as a potential solution that could help address these challenges and provide a more sustainable and efficient way to build homes in the province. 


Looking for a contractor?

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes now!