How to Install Composite Decking (DIY)

Introduction

Build Decks Using Composite and Other Low-Upkeep Materials

Your deck should be a place to relax, not a painful reminder of those looming weekends you’re going to spend sanding, painting and staining. So if you’re in the planning stages for a new deck, consider alternatives to wood and check out some composite deck designs.

You can build yourself a low-maintenance deck using the same tools and similar techniques as you would a wood deck. And most parts of a deck are now available in composite material. But there are differences between low-maintenance and wood products. We asked our pros for some tips to help DIYers avoid expensive mistakes.

Don’t know what your deck will look like? Check out this floating, platform deck The Family Handyman built.

Meet Our Experts

We asked Randy Moe from Decks Unlimited, and Bob Januik and Matt Norden from Precision Decks, for some tips on working with low-maintenance deck materials, including Trex. Altogether these guys have built more than 1,000 decks, using every material imaginable. Ten years ago about half their jobs were wood. Today they install low-maintenance materials on three out of four. Plus, check out these 14 DIY deck add-ons that are seriously cool.

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