Veedeck Shield Composite Decking

Dual-layered design Veedeck Shield series decking ensures superiordurability and resistance to fading, staining, and scratching. With anatural wood look and low maintenance requirements, it provideslong-lasting beauty without the hassle. Plus, its eco-friendly materialsmake it an environmentally responsible choice.

Ask for a Quote

Your Inquiry will be replied within 24workhours!

Submit

How to Choose Your Composite Decking

Standard Lengths: Composite decking boards typically come in 12, 16, and 20-foot lengths. You should choose a length that minimizes wastage and avoids the need for butt joints on longer spans.
Custom Lengths: Some manufacturers offer custom lengths to fit specific projects, reducing the number of seams and providing a cleaner look.
Consideration for Joist Spacing: The length of your boards can also be influenced by the distance between your joists. A shorter joist spacing can accommodate longer boards without sagging.

- Standard Width: Most composite decking boards come in a standard width of about 5.5 inches. This width resembles traditional wooden boards and offers a classic look.
- Narrow & Wide Options: Some brands offer narrow (around 3.5 inches) or wide (around 7.25 inches) options. Narrow boards can create a more intricate pattern, while wide boards can speed up installation and give a bold look.

- Standard Thickness: Most boards have a standard thickness of around 1 inch. This provides a balance between strength and flexibility.
- Performance Needs: If your deck will experience heavy foot traffic or support heavier furniture, considering a thicker board might be beneficial for added strength.
- Thinner Options: Some brands offer slightly thinner boards that might be more flexible and can be beneficial for designs with curves.

Solid or Hollow ?

1. Structural Integrity & Strength:

Solid Boards: Solid composite boards are dense and robust. They tend to be stronger and can handle greater loads, making them suitable for high-traffic areas and commercial applications.
Hollow Boards: Hollow boards are lighter due to their inner cavities. While they still provide adequate strength for most residential applications, they might not be as durable as solid boards in areas with very heavy foot traffic.

2. Weight:

Solid Boards: Being fully solid, these boards are heavier, which might make them a bit more challenging to handle and install, especially for DIY projects.
Hollow Boards: The hollow design reduces the weight of each board, making them easier to transport, handle, and install.

3. Aesthetics & Finish:

Solid Boards: Offer a consistent and traditional appearance similar to solid wood.
Hollow Boards: These boards might have a slightly different appearance due to their design. Some hollow boards have caps or covers to give them a more finished look, while others might expose the hollow chambers on the ends (which can be hidden using end caps).

4. Cost:

Solid Boards: Typically, solid composite boards are more expensive due to the greater amount of material used.
Hollow Boards: Being less material-intensive, hollow boards often come at a lower price point, making them a cost-effective choice for large projects or budget-conscious homeowners.

5. Expansion & Contraction:

Solid Boards: These boards tend to expand and contract less than hollow boards, leading to fewer issues related to temperature fluctuations.
Hollow Boards: Due to their design, they might be more susceptible to expansion and contraction. Proper installation and spacing are crucial to account for these changes.

6. Heat Retention:

Solid Boards: Solid boards might retain more heat when exposed to direct sunlight, which could make them warmer to the touch.
Hollow Boards: The hollow design allows for better airflow, potentially reducing heat retention.

What's Composite Decking Made Of?

1. Wood Fibers:

Composite decking contains recycled wood fibers, often sourced from reclaimed wood chips, sawdust, and other wood waste. The wood fibers provide the board with its rigidity and natural appearance.

2. Plastic:

The plastic component typically comes from recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This plastic content gives composite decking its resistance to moisture, rot, and insect damage. The plastic also contributes to the overall durability of the boards and helps them retain their color over time.

3. Binders & Additives:

To bind the wood fibers and plastic together, manufacturers use resins and other adhesive agents. These binders ensure a consistent mixture and help in forming the boards.
Various additives are also introduced into the mix to enhance the board’s properties. These might include UV stabilizers (to reduce color fading), anti-fungal agents (to prevent mold growth), and colorants (to achieve the desired board color).

4. Protective Capping:

Many modern composite decking boards come with a protective outer layer or cap. This capping is often made of a thin layer of plastic, which provides added protection against staining, fading, and scratching. Capped composite decking is especially resistant to the elements and can have a longer lifespan compared to uncapped versions.

Environmental Considerations: One of the significant benefits of composite decking is its eco-friendly nature. By utilizing recycled materials, composite decking reduces the amount of waste going to landfills. Additionally, since it doesn’t require the felling of trees like traditional wood decking, it contributes to forest conservation.

Maintenance & Durability: Composite decking is known for its low-maintenance properties. Unlike wood, it doesn’t require regular staining or sealing. A simple cleaning with soap and water is typically enough to keep it looking fresh. Moreover, its resistance to rot, insects, and warping ensures a longer lifespan with less need for replacements.

In summary, composite decking is a blend of recycled wood fibers, plastics, binders, and various additives, offering a durable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood decking.

What's the application of composite Decking?

1. Residential Decks:

Home Patios: Many homeowners choose composite decking for their patios due to its low maintenance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. It provides a comfortable space for outdoor lounging, dining, and entertaining.
Pool Surrounds: Composite decking is slip-resistant and doesn’t warp or splinter, making it a safe choice for poolside applications.
Balconies: Especially in urban settings, composite decking can be used to deck out apartment or condo balconies, offering an outdoor retreat in the midst of the city.

2. Commercial Applications:

Restaurants & Cafés: Outdoor dining areas in restaurants and cafés can benefit from composite decking, providing a clean and attractive space for patrons.
Boardwalks: Given its resistance to moisture and rot, composite decking is ideal for boardwalks near lakes, rivers, or the ocean.
Hotels & Resorts: Many hotels and resorts use composite decking for outdoor areas, pool surrounds, and viewing decks due to its durability and upscale appearance.

3. Marine Environments:

Docks & Marinas: Composite decking’s resistance to moisture, salt, and changing temperatures makes it a preferred choice for docks and marinas.
Floating Platforms: Whether for recreation or work, floating platforms can be decked with composite materials for longevity and safety.

4. Garden & Landscape:

Garden Paths: Composite boards can be used to create durable and attractive walkways through gardens or parks.
Raised Beds: For gardening, composite materials can be used to create raised beds, providing a barrier against pests and ensuring longer-lasting structures.
Gazebos & Pergolas: The flooring of gazebos and pergolas can be made from composite decking, ensuring a consistent and durable finish.

5. Architectural & Special Uses:

Stairs: Composite materials can be used for outdoor staircases, providing a cohesive look with the main decking area.
Bridges: Small footbridges, especially in parks or golf courses, can be constructed using composite decking.
Outdoor Showers: Given its resistance to water, composite decking can be used for outdoor shower floors.

6. Public Spaces:

Plazas & Public Squares: In urban settings, composite decking can be used in public squares, offering a durable surface for high foot traffic.
Playgrounds: Some playgrounds utilize composite decking for specific structures or play areas due to its safety and durability.

How to Install the composite decking ?

Physical Properties of Composite Decking:

Durability: Composite decking is resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage.
Flexibility: It is less rigid than traditional wood, allowing for some flexibility.
Weight: Generally, composite decking is lighter than solid wood but heavier than PVC boards.
Heat Retention: Composite can retain heat, especially in darker colors, so it can become warm under direct sunlight.
Expansion & Contraction: Like all materials, composite decking will expand and contract with temperature changes.

Tips for Composite Decking Installation:

Storage: Store the decking flat and off the ground before installation. Allow the boards to acclimate to the local environment for about 48 hours.
Direction: Decide the direction of the boards. They can run parallel, diagonal, or even in intricate patterns.
Spacing: Ensure you leave an appropriate gap between boards for expansion and contraction. This is typically about 3/16 to 1/4 inch.
Overhang: The overhang (cantilever) of the deck boards should not exceed 2 inches.
Fasteners: Use screws designed for composite decking or hidden fasteners to secure the boards.
Framing: Make sure the joist spacing aligns with the recommendations of the composite decking manufacturer, typically 16 inches on-center for perpendicular installations and 12 inches for diagonal installations.

Different Ways to Install Composite Decking:

Top Screwing: This is the most common method where screws are driven down through the top of the board into the joists. Use color-matched screws or hidden clip systems.
Hidden Fasteners: These clips or brackets are inserted between boards, securing them without visible screws on the surface. This provides a cleaner finish.
Grooved Boards: Some composite decking boards come with grooves on the sides, allowing for easier use of hidden fasteners.
Picture Framing: This technique involves using a different colored board as a border around the perimeter of the deck, creating a “picture frame” effect. This can hide the unfinished edges of the boards and enhance aesthetics.
Fascia Boards: These are boards that are installed vertically around the perimeter of the deck to hide the structure beneath and provide a polished look.

Installation Steps:

Foundation & Framing: Ensure a solid foundation, typically using concrete footings. Build the frame using treated lumber, ensuring it’s level and square.
Laying Boards: Starting from the edge, lay the first board and secure it. Use spacers to maintain even gaps between boards. Ensure boards are perpendicular to the joists.
Securing Boards: Depending on your chosen method, either screw the boards from the top or use hidden fasteners. Ensure all boards are securely fastened.
Finishing Touches: If using the picture framing technique, install the border boards. Attach fascia boards around the perimeter if desired. Seal any cut ends of the boards with a recommended sealer.

how to maintenance composite decking?

Routine Cleaning:

Sweeping: Regularly sweep the deck with a soft-bristled broom to remove dirt, leaves, and other debris.
Washing: At least twice a year, wash the deck using mild soap and water. Use a soft scrub brush to gently clean the boards, then rinse thoroughly with a hose.

Addressing Specific Issues:

Stains:
- For oil, grease, or food stains, act quickly. Use a mild detergent and warm water, scrubbing gently. Rinse thoroughly.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals as they might damage or discolor the decking.
Mold and Mildew:
- Composite decking is resistant to mold and mildew, but spores can still grow on the surface, especially in shaded areas that remain damp. Regular cleaning can prevent buildup.
- If mold or mildew appears, use a deck cleaner that’s designed for composite materials.
Scratches & Scuffs:
- Minor scratches might fade over time. For deeper scratches, some homeowners lightly sand the area, but consult the manufacturer’s guidelines before doing so.
- Some brands offer touch-up kits to address scuffs and scratches.

Preventative Measures:

Furniture: Use protective pads under heavy furniture to prevent scratches. Avoid dragging furniture or heavy objects across the deck.
Grills & Cooking: Use a grill mat to protect the deck from grease stains and splatters.
Rugs: Use rugs made for outdoor use, ensuring they don’t trap moisture beneath. Remove and clean them periodically.
Avoid Standing Water: Ensure your deck is slightly sloped or has appropriate drainage to prevent water from pooling.

Products to Avoid:

Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using bleach or other abrasive cleaners, which might damage the composite material or fade its color.
Power Washing: While some manufacturers allow for power washing, always use it on a low setting and keep the nozzle at least 8 inches away from the deck. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines before using a power washer.

Winter Maintenance:

Snow & Ice: Use a plastic shovel to remove snow. Avoid using metal shovels as they can scratch the deck.
Ice Melt: If using an ice melt product, choose one that’s safe for use on composite decking. Avoid products containing rock salt or calcium chloride. After the ice melts, rinse the deck thoroughly.