Terraces

The major advantages of composite

Here’s what makes composite such a strong choice:

• Exceptional resistance: it does not deform easily and maintains its structure despite climate variations.

• Minimal maintenance: no need for stain, oil, or regular treatments.

• Color stability: some boards can retain their shade for up to 15 years thanks to UV protection treatments.

• Anti-slip surface: ideal for wet areas such as poolside zones.

• Long lifespan: high-quality composite can last more than 25 years depending on the environment.

• Modern appearance: many finishes make it adaptable to all design styles.

Unlike natural wood, which requires constant maintenance, composite offers incomparable peace of mind. It is an investment in comfort, durability, and aesthetics.

The different families of composite: how to make the right choice?

Not all composite boards are created equal. Understanding the differences is essential to choosing a durable and stable deck suited to your needs.

Solid composite

These boards are completely massive.

Advantages:

• Very high mechanical resistance

• Excellent stability

• Ideal for high-traffic areas

Hollow composite

The boards are hollow with internal chambers.

Advantages:

• Lighter

• Easier to install

• Good internal ventilation capacity

Co-extruded composite

This is the most modern version of composite. The boards are coated with a protective layer that significantly enhances their resistance.

Key benefits:

• Enhanced UV protection

• Greater resistance to stains

• Stable and uniform colors

This type of board is often chosen for premium projects.

Essential criteria for selecting your composite decking boards

To ensure durable and high-performance composite decking, several key criteria must be considered.

1. Density

The denser the board, the more resistant it will be to shocks, wear, and deformation.
Some boards exceed 1,200 kg/m³, ensuring remarkable robustness.

2. Dimensional stability

Boards must resist thermal variations. Between winter and summer, composite can undergo temperature variations of several degrees, sometimes more than 40°C, depending on exposure.

3. UV resistance

UV protection helps prevent premature fading.

4. Safety

Choose composite with an anti-slip surface, especially if installed near a pool or humid zone.

5. Aesthetic finish

Modern composites offer a wide variety of styles:

• Natural wood effects

• Brushed finishes

• Contemporary shades (grey, anthracite, sand…)

• Wide or extra-wide boards

Every detail influences the final result.

Preparing the ground: the foundation of a solid and durable deck

The longevity of a composite deck depends largely on ground preparation. This step must never be neglected.

Step 1: Define the area

Mark the exact location of the deck by considering:

• sun exposure,

• foot traffic,

• potential wet zones,

• cable or conduit passages.

Step 2: Stabilize the soil

In most projects, you need to:

• excavate 15 to 30 cm depending on the soil type,

• add stabilized gravel,

• install geotextile to prevent weed growth,

• create a perfectly level and well-drained base.

The goal is to avoid ground movement, which can cause deformation and irregularities.

Step 3: Create a slope for water drainage

A slope of 1 to 2% is essential to ensure proper water evacuation.

ive use.

The structure: a crucial element for durability

The structure supports the boards and guarantees stability. Poorly executed, it compromises the entire deck.

Essential components

• Adjustable pedestals: allow precise height adjustment.

• Joists: made of aluminum or composite to prevent deformation.

• Braces: strengthen the structure.

• Protective tape: extends the lifespan of the joists.

Rules to follow

• A spacing of 35 to 50 cm between joists, depending on board type.

• Use appropriate fasteners to avoid movement.

• Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.

The structure is the skeleton of your deck: the stronger it is, the longer your deck will last.

Installation techniques for composite decking boards

Installing composite decking requires precision and method.

Installation with hidden clips

Most composite boards are secured with hidden clips.

Advantages:

• perfect aesthetics,

• easy disassembly,

• compliance with expansion spacing.

Possible installation types

• Parallel to the house for an elegant and modern look

• Perpendicular for enhanced structural visual impact

• Diagonal for a dynamic and high-end appearance

Important steps during installation

• respect expansion gaps (3 to 5 mm depending on manufacturer),

• perfectly align the first row,

• check level every 1 to 2 meters,

• alternate board lengths for a natural appearance.

Maintaining a composite deck: simple and effective

• One of the major advantages of composite is its very easy maintenance.

  Regular cleaning

  Once a month, simple water cleaning is enough.
  For tougher dirt, a soft brush and mild soap will suffice.

  Stain management

  Co-extruded composite is highly resistant to stains.
  For a fresh stain, cleaning within 30 to 60 minutes preserves the surface perfectly.

  Annual deep cleaning

  Once a year:

  • rinse the deck with water,

  • check the gaps between boards for leaves and debris.

  What to avoid

  • Pressure washers over 120 bars

  • Corrosive or abrasive products

  • Metal tools that may scratch the surface

  spacing joists too widely,

• ignoring wood fiber direction.

Avoiding these errors ensures a solid, long-lasting deck.

Common mistakes to absolutely avoid

To ensure a durable and elegant deck, avoid these frequent pitfalls:

• Installing directly on soil or an unstable surface

• Forgetting the drainage slope

• Neglecting board spacing

• Using wooden joists for composite

• Using inappropriate screws

• Not accounting for expansion gaps

• Poorly ventilated structure

Avoiding these mistakes ensures a long-lasting and visually appealing deck.

etic, functional and perfectly adapted to your lifestyle.

Design ideas to enhance your composite deck

Composite offers great creative freedom. Here are inspiring ideas:

• Integrate a modern aluminum pergola

• Create a lounge area with low armchairs

• Add built-in LED spotlights for nighttime lighting

• Mix several composite shades for a graphic effect

• Install composite cladding matching the deck

• Add stylish planters for harmony

• Create a composite pathway extending into the garden

With some creativity, the deck becomes a true living space.

being.

Conclusion: the composite outdoor deck, a forward-thinking choice

Choosing a composite outdoor deck means opting for a modern, durable, reliable, and aesthetic material. Thanks to its resistance, low maintenance, stability, and wide choice of finishes, it perfectly meets the expectations of contemporary outdoor spaces.

A well-installed composite deck can offer more than 25 years of comfort, design, and safety. It not only beautifies your outdoor area but enhances your quality of life, increases your home’s value, and creates a space where you can relax, gather, and enjoy every moment.

With proper preparation, a solid structure, and simple maintenance, your composite deck will become one of the most appreciated spaces of your home.