how to repair composite decking

How to Repair a Composite Deck

1. Remove Composite Deck Boards. You should use a pry bar to remove the nails and screws that hold the deck boards in place. ...
2. Replace the Deck’s Joists. The joists which are the cross beams that hold the deck boards in place should be examined for any damage or repair that may ...
3. Reinforce Deck Posts. ...
4. Replace Damaged Composite Deck Boards. ...

Full Answer

How to clean and restore a composite deck?

Things You'll Need

• Stiff-bristle brush
• Plastic
• Painter’s tape
• Deck finish
• Paint rollers and brushes

Is composite decking worth the price?

Two popular decking options are wood, often treated and composite decking. Composite will cost more than wood initially but is it worth it? Most of the time, yes, composite decking is worth it. Composite decks provide several practical benefits in longevity and upkeep over wooden decks.

How to fix a hole in composite decking?

How to Fix a Hole in Composite Decking Remove any stains with a scrub brush and cleaning solution recommended by the manufacturer. Tighten or replace any decking screws or nails that have worked loose over time with a power screwdriver and hammer. Sand any small scratches or gouges in the boards with a fine-grade sandpaper.

How to repair cracks in composite decks?

causing it to develop a small crack. You may be able to find a sink repair kit for your particular brand of composite sink, but you can use basic repair items found in a hardware store as well.

Is there a filler for composite decking?

For small scratches and surface marks, a Composite Decking Repair kit may be the best thing to help you fix your damaged Board. Repair kits often include wax or epoxy fillers to help remove/ cover up any scratched areas of your Deck.

Can you repair a holes in composite decking?

If the boards on your composite deck have chips or small cracks, you may be able to repair them by using a composite deck repair kit -- depending on the materials and the manufacturer of your deck's boards.

How do you repair a composite?

The steps involved in composite repair are:Detect and assess the damage.Identify component.Remove Paint.Design the repair.Obtain materials and tools.Remove the damaged area.Effect the repair.Allow proper curing time.

Can you repair composite wood?

Repair the decorative board damage with filler If the boards on your WPC decking have chips or small cracks. You can use a composite deck repair kit to repair them-it depending on the material and manufacturer of your boards.

How do you fill holes in composite deck boards?

For plastic or composite decking, use an epoxy filler to fill screw holes. Mix the epoxy with thinner and use a syringe to fill the holes. Allow the epoxy to dry, then sand it so that it is flush with the deck.

Why is my composite deck peeling?

0:171:48Common Composite Decking Problems - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe most common problems composite deck owners face are algae mold and surface peeling many believeMoreThe most common problems composite deck owners face are algae mold and surface peeling many believe that moisture is the primary.

Can composite materials be repaired?

Composite repairs are needed due to either manufacturing defects or in-service defects. Once the defect is identified depending on the nature of the defect fill, bonded, bolted or injection repairs can be carried out.

What is the most common method used for composite repairs?

The most common types of repairs carried out with composite materials in the aerospace industry are external bonded patch repair and scarf repair. Both repair techniques differ from each other in terms of manufacturing and application point of view.

Can you repair a composite filling?

Currently there is no evidence to support repairing or replacing resin composite fillings for adults.

How often do you have to replace composite decking?

That's one of the main advantages of our preferred composite material: the average composite deck lifespan is at least 25 to 30 years, and can span even longer. At Keystone Custom Decks, we build using Trex and TimberTech composite decking, both of which are known for their gorgeous styles and long lifespans.

Can you resurface Trex decking?

Resurfacing your deck with trex® is easy to do, and the results are easy to love. If the boards on your existing deck are looking a bit worn - and the foundation and deck framing system are sound - you can simply replace the walking surfaces and deck railings with Trex decking and railing.

Can you caulk Trex decking?

This Trex Butyl Caulking creates ties together the RainEscape elements to double your deck space. Trex RainEscape Butyl Caulk works with Trex RainEscape Down Spouts and Troughs to funnel rainwater away from your underdeck space and into the gutter system of your choice.

How do you repair a hole in Trex decking?

Fill small holes, using a putty knife, with a mixture of fine composite board shavings and silicone caulk. The consistency of the mixture should be thick enough that it will not seep out of the bottom of the hole. Match the color of the caulk to the deck boards.

Can you caulk Trex decking?

This Trex Butyl Caulking creates ties together the RainEscape elements to double your deck space. Trex RainEscape Butyl Caulk works with Trex RainEscape Down Spouts and Troughs to funnel rainwater away from your underdeck space and into the gutter system of your choice.

How often do you have to replace composite decking?

That's one of the main advantages of our preferred composite material: the average composite deck lifespan is at least 25 to 30 years, and can span even longer. At Keystone Custom Decks, we build using Trex and TimberTech composite decking, both of which are known for their gorgeous styles and long lifespans.

What is a deck plug?

Decking plug systems make it easy to hide the screws within your deck boards. Specialized drill bits create perfectly-sized holes. Sink screws below the deck surface, then fill in the holes with plugs that match your decking!

What is composite decking made of?

Composite decking is typically made of wood fibers combined with plastic. The term is fluid, however, in that some manufacturers sell composites that are entirely made of plastic or are plastic wrapped around a wood core. Because of this, composite deck scratch repair can take a little bit of preliminary research before you tackle ...

Can you sand composite decks?

Composite planks exposed to sunlight eventually lose their luster and become discolored. Sanding is not an option for composites. The plastic burns and melts with heavy friction, and the discoloration problem could worsen instead of improve. Paints are also not recommended because they tend not to adhere well to composite material. Stains, however, will recolor a composite deck, although the color may vary from what’s shown on the can. Always try a sample of stain in an inconspicuous portion of the deck before investing time and money in staining the entire deck.

Can composite decking be scratched?

Similar to wood decks, composite materials are prone to scratches and dings from moving outdoor furniture. Solutions vary by manufacturer and by product type. Some recommend not working scratches and abrasions as they will blend with the rest of the decking in time.

What to do if joists are loose?

If you have a joist that is loose or needs to be re-secured, reposition the joist in its joist hanger. Replace any damaged joists with newer composite joists that should also be able to be easily installed into the deck and the joist hangers.

Do you need to inspect deck boards?

You will need to inspect each of the deck boards in order to see of they are damaged and in need of repair or replacement. If the composite deck boards are damaged in anyway or appear to be in need of replacement, toss them away in exchange for new composite deck boards that are similar in style.

What do I need to replace a warped composite deck?

All that you need is a power saw, a claw bar, and a little bit of elbow grease. If you carefully remove the warped composite plank, you can replace it with a new one that is in great shape. Follow along and let’s explore exactly how you can fix warped composite decking.

What are floor joists on a deck?

Even with composite decking, floor joists are wood, so identifying them will be easy. Floor joists are the support planks that run underneath the actual decking.

How do I measure a deck?

1. Measure The Plank. Have your circular saw, goggles, and tape measure by your side. Identify the plank or planks that are warped by carefully looking at the deck . Once you have found the problem plank or planks, it is time to measure them. It is important to accurately measure the plank using your tape measure.

Do I need a power saw to repair composite decking?

It is particularly important to value safety first when fixing warped composite decking. As you can see from the above steps, a power saw is required to remove warped planks. Before beginning the process of fixing warped composite decking, consider whether or not you are comfortable with using power tools.

Is composite decking manmade?

Composite decking may look like wood, but it is manmade and behave s differently. While many people associate warped decking with wood planks, composite decking can warp over time as well. Decks should be flat and straight, but over time, they can become warped and uneven. If you leave composite decking as it is once it is warped, ...

Can composite decking warp?

Many people choose composite decking over wood decking to avoid the wear and tear that wood goes through. Even still, composite decking can warp just the same as wood decking. The last thing that you want to do is leave your warped composite decking as it is.

Can I cut a new deck plank?

After getting the right measurement for the replacement plank, it is time to cut a new one. You will need a new piece of composite decking to cut which can be found at many hardware stores. Get your new piece of decking and cut off the excess length so that it will fit in your deck.

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning of your composite deck around once per year will help to maintain its bright and new appearance and minimise the risk of damage.

Discoloured Planks

Without adequate protection, composite decking boards that are continually exposed to the sunlight might become discoloured over time. However, when this happens, it is not always as easy to repair compared to wooden planks. Because of the plastics in composite decking, sanding is not an option.

Scratch Repair

Composite materials can be prone to scratches and scuffs from moving outdoor furniture or items falling on the decking. The solution for a scratched composite deck board will vary depending on the product type and the manufacturer.

Filling Chips and Cracks

Chips or small cracks can be caused in composite decking by moving outdoor furniture, items falling on the deck, or extreme weather. If you have noticed any small cracks or chips in your composite deck, you can often use a specially designed composite deck repair kit to fix them.

Heavier Damage

Heavy damage to your composite decking such as deep scratches, cracks and broken boards, may often require a replacement plank. To replace a composite decking plank, first find the fasteners, which may be concealed below the decking to avoid showing the screw heads.

Step 1

Remove any stains with a scrub brush and cleaning solution recommended by the manufacturer. Each brand of composite decking requires different cleaners. Scrub away stains and rinse thoroughly. Allow composite boards to dry before making further repairs.

Step 2

Tighten or replace any decking screws or nails that have worked loose over time with a power screwdriver and hammer.

Step 3

Sand any small scratches or gouges in the boards with a fine-grade sandpaper. The marks will diminish but will not be completely removed if the damage is too deep. In this case, remove the board and flip it over. Reposition and secure the board to the deck, removing any manufacturer's marks with cleaning solutions.

Step 4

Fill small holes, using a putty knife, with a mixture of fine composite board shavings and silicone caulk. The consistency of the mixture should be thick enough that it will not seep out of the bottom of the hole. Match the color of the caulk to the deck boards. Allow to dry completely before walking on the surface of the deck.

Step 5

Remove and replace any boards that have sustained major damage or have holes larger than 1/2-inch diameter. Follow composite manufacturer's installation recommendations for securing boards to the deck surface.

How do I care for composite decking?

To care for composite decking: Sweep regularly to remove dirt and debris, and use mild soap and warm water with a nylon scrub brush to gently remove stubborn spots.

How do I repair a deck board?

Deck Board Repair with Face Screws. You can easily repair your deck board by removing screws from each joist of the damaged board. Remove the damage board and fix it with the face screws.

Can composite decking be resurfaced?

You’ll be happy to hear that composite decking requires less maintenance than traditional wood. While composite decking can’t be resurfaced like natural wood, it’s designed to better withstand damage over the years when cared for properly. To care for composite decking:

Do you need to replace a plank?

You may need to replace a plank if you have heavy damage, such as deep abrasions, broken boards or scratches that don’t fade. If your damage is severe, visit our dealer locator page to find where you can purchase replacement boards.

Do you need to sand moisture shield?

No Sanding Necessary. One of the many benefits of MoistureShield products is they do not need to be sanded. Minor scratches on uncapped composite decking (like Vantage) should fade within 12-16 weeks due to its self-healing properties.

What is composite decking?

Wood fibers, plastics, and bonding agents together build up the beautiful composite decking that you have in your lawn or house. All of those fibers, plastics, and agents are mixed. That forms into board shaped lengths after the process of heating and cooling.

Why does my deck warp?

In summer and winter, the scorching sun and the freezing cold affect your deck and it might warp. In severe cases, this might also result in a broken deck. You’ll be saving yourself from spending extra money on a new deck in the future if you fix it today.

Where is the ending point of a warped deck board?

The ending point of the wood piece will be on the middle point of the deck board on another side of the warped board. The length of the wood piece will be covering from one middle point to another middle point of another deck board. That’ll also cover all of the warped deck board.

Can you pressure wash composite decking?

We wouldn’t recommend you to pressure wash for composite decking. You see, pressure washing from too close or using too much pressure might be harmful for your deck. Because the material is softer than the natural wood and it can be etched more easily.

Composite Decking Is Crack-Resistant, not Crack-Proof

You might have heard decking owners saying that their composite decking crack after they installed it. True, makers of composite decking are advertising their material as crack resistant. What crack-resistant means is that plastic composite will resist the elements of weather better than timber decking.

Fixing a Cracked Composite Decking

If your plastic wood composite is cracked, you should follow the steps to explain in the section to fix it.

Conclusion

You can fix your cracked composite decking by turning the board or using composite fillers to cover the crack.