Is your composite decking showing its age? If yes, then updating such kind of a surface is required. But what is the material that you can choose to give your old surface a durable and beautiful look? For this, there is no other option than decking tiles which is both quick and affordable options. know all about Composite Decking Tiles – Installation, Benefits, and Disadvantages.
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What is the Importance of Composite Decking Tiles?
It might be challenging to understand the benefits of composite components when making the decision to use them for your new deck. But if you look into it, you’ll find out that there are a lot of advantages to using this kind of material.
To begin with, it offers you a more organic appearance plus is a sustainable alternative that aids in reducing waste in the business. Compared to conventional wood, it also needs less upkeep.
Composite materials are ideal if you want a long-lasting deck that doesn’t sacrifice beauty for durability. They’re considerably more durable than wood on its own because to the polypropylene polyethylene film as well as wood fibres that go into their construction.
In addition, they include a protective coating that prevents surface discoloration. Your decking planks will remain in pristine condition for many years to come thanks to this maintenance-free solution.
Composite decking that is guaranteed to not fade in colour for life is even available. Doing so can save you from having to replace your deck due to fading or wear and tear after only a few years.
A composite deck’s resistance to decay and mould is a significant quality. The combination of water-resistant resin and fibres is responsible for this.
What this implies is that there won’t be any fungus, insects, or additional growths on your deck which could harm the boards in the long run. Because it expands and contracts far less than regular wood, it is also more resistant to weather degradation.
Why Choose Composite Decking Tiles?
When your old outdoor surface gets cracks and stains, it won’t look beautiful. And, you might think about the materials which are easy to install and less time-consuming. So, these tiles are one of the materials that you are looking for. On the other hand, replacing a surface is more expensive and a time-taking task for sure. These tiles are an economical alternative that can cover a variety of outdoor surfaces.
These tiles also come in different types and they are:
- Wood Composite Tiles
- Stone Deck Tiles
- Grass Deck Tiles
How to Install Composite Deck Tiles?
Deck tiles are specifically used for constructing a deck. So, before you buy them, you have to calculate how much deck space you want. Take a tape and roughly measure the area where you install the deck. Once you’re ready with the calculations, ensure that you are ordering always 10% more tiles than what you require. It will be helpful when any of the tiles get broken or you need an extra or two for the decking.
Flat down the surface:
The first step in building a deck is the installation of deck tiles is to prepare a flat and solid surface. You can also go with the semi-flat option. If there is any kind of dirt, the tiles wouldn’t stick well and look uneven. So, first, put down some sand and crushed gravel to flatten the ground. But before putting sand, make sure the sand is well compacted with that area.
Assemble the tiles:
Assembling deck tiles is not a tricky task. It is simple to just align the dovetails of two tiles. After that put down both tiles together. Because they have the feature of four-way locking, you can install them in any direction and make a variety of composite decking boards.
Start on the outside:
While installing, begin from the outside of the deck and start working towards the inside. This helps the dovetails of tiles to remain intact while installing trim pieces.
Takethe right measurements for cutting
Maybe not all tiles will fit and you need to cut some of them. If this is the situation, cut the tile facing the house or wall. When you reach a point, where you need a cut the tile, carefully measure the area and mark the same on the tile. Flip and check the tile. The cut line must not be near the screws that hold the tile. If the line is near to them then you’ll need to replace the screw points or adjust your measurement.
Cut the tiles:
Composite deck tiles can be cut with saws specially designed for them. Before cutting, smooth down the area with sandpaper of 180 or higher grit. And, then follow the cut line to get the right piece.
Install the trim:
Trims come up with three different types – straight section, inside corner and outside corner. These trims should be placed where people will walk to avoid tripping on the tile. A straight trim covers the front edge of the tile while the other ones cover inside and outside corners.
Install the fascia:
This is an additional option if you wish to give your deck an elegant and finished look. Just like trim, fascia pieces also come in the same three types that cover straight edges, and inside and outside corners of tiles.
This is the basic installation process by using decking tiles. Additionally, you can use these kinds of tiles for constructing other outdoor structures like patios, balconies, pool decks, etc. As these tiles allow easy removal, you can replace them whenever you want to match your liking.
Now let’s see the pros and cons of these tiles that tell you whether you can invest in these tiles or not:
Benefits of Composite Deck Tiles:
- Composite deck tiles are easy-to-install and feature interlocking dovetails. If this feature is absent, they can also easily adjust to each other.
- These tiles are less time-consuming. Thus, there is very little time you need to install them instead of other materials.
- These tiles are so natural looking that it is hard to distinguish from the real.
- Deck tiles can be cut into a variety of sizes.
- These tiles can be disassembled at any time to replace or change.
- There is also a variety of composite deck tiles colours, sizes, and styles in the market.
- They are perfectly eco-friendly and economical that fit in your budget.
- Deck tiles required very little maintenance.
- They provide durability and no need to replace frequently.
Disadvantages of composite deck tiles:
- It’s an economical option but composite decks are more expensive than wood. This makes it a pricey alternative to the wood.
- Composite deck tiles are not natural. They only look like natural wood but are fake.
- They are not completely maintenance-free. You need to wash them periodically and clean debris from them.
- These deck tiles will also show signs of wear after some time and you’ll need to replace them.
- The material is soft comparatively and can be marred with animal claws.
- Fading is another disadvantage of these tiles.
The Bottom Line
Composite deck tiles can be the best alternative to real things like wood, stone or grass, etc. if you’re thinking about what is the best between timber and composite decking. With a variety of sizes, styles, and patterns, they offer extraordinary elegant designs to your outside space. Also, they are perfectly safe for children and pets.
Installation of this decking is simple and you can do it by yourself without any expert help. But if you are not technically comfortable, you better approach a professional. Now, after considering all the benefits and disadvantages, we hope that you reached an informed decision.
Author bio:
Erika Rhein, a professional writer and blogger by profession. I write on various niches, however, I prioritize writing on composite decking types and fashions. I always strive to provide users with useful and informative articles in a readable format. I aim to achieve a difference in my writing.
