How to cope with composite decking ends?

composite decking ends

When constructing an outdoor space using composite decking. What a gorgeous composite decking material! It increases the value of your property and enhances the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.

Composite wood decking, on the other hand, requires finishing details due to its lack of scalloped edges. What should we do with the scalloped extremities of the composite decking?

There are numerous methods for repairing composite decking with scalloped ends. But each method has its own advantages and disadvantages that distinguish it from the others. Determine the true nature of the situation so we can choose the most appropriate solution.

A picture frame’s edge

A deck with one or more levels of boards surrounding its perimeter is referred to as having a “picture frame border.” Most of the time, the border deck is identical to the center deck. One of the most common methods to finish the ends of composite boards is with a frame.

A picture frame border can be used for more than simply concealing the cut end of a deck. For instance, you could enhance the appearance of your deck. Whether you choose a frame with one, two, or three boards, it gives your composite wood deck a refined and sophisticated appearance.

It can also provide designers with more methods to alter the appearance of their designs. You can use boards of the same color to create a subtle appearance, or you can use boards of different hues to create a bold appearance.

The cost is the worst aspect of a picture frame border. At the border of the deck, additional joists and blocking are required. This allows for more decking to run across the deck and conceal the ends.

Additionally, mitered cuts make it difficult to work with picture frame edges. If the mitered connections are not properly joined. Then, as the temperature fluctuates and the board expands and contracts, the mitered joints will separate, destroying the aesthetic appeal of the outdoor composite deck.

Raised composite fascia board

Lintels are also known as “edge joist covers” and “deck lintels” on occasion. Typically, it is used to conceal the holes at the ends of the deck frame and the board’s edge joists. Lintels are not too difficult to install.

During installation, the deck is positioned on the deck and trimmed to fit snugly against the perimeter joists. Simply install the composite fascia board on the deck so that the top is even.

The issue with lintels is readily apparent. Position the trim board level with the end joists. Then, install the fascia board on top. Between the fascia and the joists, it is likely that water will become trapped. If water remains on the deck, it will deteriorate.

Even though the joist membrane makes this risk less likely, it is still a negative aspect of the design.

The ends of the composite deck should be painted

It is problematic that the extremities of composite wood decking do not match the decking’s color. The composite decking can be coated in any color desired. However, the extremities are the same color as the plastic bags and sawdust you employ.

Which can vary from board to board. The solution is to paint each end and the polymer cover to match the decking. Getting the composite decking ends to match the remainder of the deck.

Painting is the best method to maintain traditional wood decks. However, painting is less effective on composite material decking. If you paint the end of the deck, the colors might not coordinate, contributing to a negative aesthetic.

Glued-on cap of veneer

The decking boards’ extremities resemble paintings, but that is not all they do. Apply a veneer to the extremity of the cut decking. The decking shares the same texture and color scheme as the top. Also, it is the same color.

Obtaining veneer covers is difficult. Even though trim can be used to cut veneer, it requires a great deal of skill and extra effort to do so. Also, installation requires extra care, because if the adhesive fails, the finish will fail as well. Therefore, you must use contact adhesive, which means you can only complete the task once.

Add end strips by screwing them on

An assembly of framing and veneer. Cut an inch-thick piece of composite decking and screw it to the extremities of the composite decking. The decking planks’ edges were rounded to improve their appearance.

Without the additional substructure work associated with picture framing the deck or the bother of attaching veneer to each deck board’s end.

Vinyl stair nosing

Inside the house, an antiquated method for finishing the ends of composite decking is visible. The composite decking’s extremities are finished with vinyl stair nosing. Similar vinyl stairs were used to finish the perimeter of the deck inside the home.

The price is a small fraction of what it would cost to frame a picture on a composite deck.

The end of decks made of plastic boards

This is the only acceptable method for finishing hollow cylinder decking planks. With a rubber mallet, small holes are tapped into the cylinders so that the plastic end caps can be affixed to the ends of the deck boards. Fill the openings at the ends of the deck boards with plastic of the same hue.

Typically, the scalloped ends of composite decking complement the picture frame border well. If you are on a tight budget, you can use a raised composite fascia board. These are the two most effective methods for finishing the extremities of composite decking.

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