Composite Deck Installation

Why Composite Decking Makes Sense

If you love the look of a wood deck but hate the idea of endless maintenance, composite decking might be your perfect solution. Composite materials combine wood fibers with recycled plastic to create boards that look like real wood but do not require staining, sealing, or constant upkeep. You get the beauty without the burden.

In Smyrna, TN, where summers get hot and winters can surprise you with ice, composite decking holds up remarkably well. It does not warp when it gets wet. It does not crack when temperatures swing from 90 degrees to freezing. It does not splinter, so your kids and pets can run around barefoot without worry. And it does not fade or lose its color over time like pressure-treated wood does.

Many of our Smyrna clients switch to composite after years of maintaining wood decks. They realize how much time and money they were spending on stain, sealant, and repairs. With composite, you clean it once or twice a year with soap and water, and that is about it. Learn more about our commitment to quality materials.

Understanding Composite Materials

Not all composite decking is created equal. There are different grades, different manufacturing processes, and different performance levels. We work with top brands that have proven track records in Tennessee's climate.

• Capped composite: Has a protective shell over a composite core, resists staining and fading better than uncapped versions, costs more but worth it for high-traffic areas
• Uncapped composite: Solid composite throughout, more affordable, still durable but may show wear in heavy use zones
• Hollow vs solid boards: Hollow boards are lighter and less expensive, solid boards feel more substantial and have better sound dampening
• Color and texture options: Ranges from smooth to deeply grooved wood grain, available in grays, browns, reds, and even exotic wood looks

We help you understand these differences and choose the right product for your budget and needs. Some homeowners want the premium capped boards for their entire deck. Others mix and match, using capped boards in high-traffic areas and uncapped in spots that get less wear. Both approaches work. It just depends on your priorities.

How We Install Composite Decking

Installing composite decking requires different techniques than wood. The materials expand and contract with temperature changes, so proper spacing and fastening methods are critical. We have installed thousands of square feet of composite decking and know exactly how to do it right.

• 1.
  Foundation and framing: We build a solid structure using pressure-treated lumber or steel framing, making sure everything is level and properly supported. Composite boards are heavier than wood, so we space joists accordingly.
• 2.
  Hidden fastening systems: Most composite decks use hidden clips that attach between boards, creating a clean look with no visible screws. This also allows for proper expansion gaps.
• 3.
  Fascia and trim: We wrap exposed framing with matching composite fascia boards for a finished appearance. This protects the structure and looks professional.
• 4.
  Railing integration: Composite railings complement the decking perfectly. We install posts, rails, and balusters that match or coordinate with your deck color.

The installation process typically takes the same amount of time as a wood deck, sometimes a bit longer because of the hidden fasteners and precise spacing requirements. But the extra care during installation pays off in how your deck performs for years to come. Explore our railing and safety upgrade options.

The Long-Term Value of Composite

Yes, composite decking costs more upfront than pressure-treated wood. But when you look at the total cost over 10 or 20 years, composite often comes out ahead. You save money on stain and sealant. You save time on maintenance. And you avoid the need to replace damaged or rotted boards.

Most quality composite decking comes with warranties of 25 years or more against fading, staining, and structural defects. That kind of protection gives you confidence that your investment is sound. Wood decks do not come with those guarantees because wood is a natural material that changes over time. Composite is engineered to stay consistent.

Here is what you can expect from a properly installed composite deck:

• No annual staining or sealing required
• Resistance to mold, mildew, and insect damage
• Color that stays true for decades, not years
• Surface that does not splinter or crack
• Easy cleaning with just soap and water
• Long manufacturer warranties for peace of mind

These benefits matter even more in Tennessee, where high humidity encourages mold growth and temperature swings put stress on outdoor materials. Composite handles these challenges without breaking a sweat.

Design Flexibility With Composite

Some people think composite decking limits your design options, but that is not true. You can create any layout, shape, or feature with composite that you could with wood. Multi-level decks, curved edges, built-in planters, and custom patterns are all possible.

Composite boards come in various lengths and can be cut and shaped just like wood. You can mix colors to create borders or patterns. You can run boards at different angles for visual interest. And you can combine composite decking with other materials like stone or metal for a truly unique look.

We have built composite decks in every style imaginable, from modern minimalist designs with clean lines and cable railings to traditional spaces with ornate balusters and decorative post caps. The material adapts to your vision. See our custom design services for inspiration.

What Maintenance Actually Looks Like

While composite decking is often called maintenance-free, that is not entirely accurate. It is more like low-maintenance. You still need to sweep off leaves and debris. You should wash it down once or twice a year to remove dirt and pollen. And you might need to address specific stains from grease or food spills.

But compare that to wood deck maintenance. No sanding. No stripping old stain. No reapplying sealant every year or two. No replacing boards that have warped or rotted. No fighting splinters. The effort required is minimal, and most homeowners handle it themselves in an afternoon.

If something does stain your composite deck, most issues come out with a deck cleaner made for composite materials. For stubborn spots, a soft brush and some elbow grease usually do the trick. We provide care instructions when we finish your installation so you know exactly what to do.

Our Composite Deck Experience in Smyrna

We have been installing composite decks in Smyrna and the surrounding areas for years. We know which brands perform best in Tennessee weather. We know which colors fade less in our intense summer sun. And we know how to deal with the specific challenges that come up during installation, like proper ventilation under the deck to prevent moisture issues.

Our team stays current with the latest products and installation techniques. Composite technology keeps improving, with new finishes and features coming out regularly. We attend training sessions, follow manufacturer guidelines to the letter, and make sure our installations qualify for full warranty coverage.

When you work with Artisan Outdoor Smyrna Decks, you are not getting someone who dabbles in composite. You are getting experts who install it every day and know how to deliver results that last.

Frequently Asked Questions