Decking is one of the important parts in construction projects and especially in the ones where there is a significant outdoor area to be dealt. If you are already in construction business or just planning to start a small scale construction or landscaping business, it is important to update your knowledge and skills as per the trending technologies and methods.
Composite decking is rapidly becoming popular in the outdoors as it is eco-friendly in nature and helps to save forests as only recycled materials are used to manufacture these products.
Typically, decking
boards are made from wood. However, recently, the increasing use of composite
decking boards is compelling small and large businesses to consider offering
this option.
More Insight of the
Product
Composite decking involves the use of
decking materials that are made from sustainable products. These boards can be
constructed from a combination of resin and wood and, in some cases, a mixture
of cellulose materials. The main feature of these types of decking materials is
the fact that they are human-made.
Here are some pros of
this form of decking:
- It is equally, if not more attractive, than
the traditional methods of decking. - These materials are accessible and are easy to
maintain. This means that all you have to do is clean it semi-annually by
spraying using a hose. - They are non-destructive to the environment
(eco-friendly). - It also does not hurt that is; it is highly
durable. This advantage is supported by the fact that the materials are
resistant to such damaging effects like rot and corrosion. - They are also resistant to mould and insects.
- The materials are also desirable since they
are impervious to stains and are resistant to fading. This means that the
contents are easy to clean and can also retain their colour for longer than the
latter. - Installing a deck that is made from
sustainable materials is also very easy. - Additionally, these materials are impervious
to splinters, warping, as well as twisting.
One of the main
disadvantages of this form of decking is the fact that it is more costly.
Installation
Installing a composite
deck is in many ways similar to installing traditional decking boards. The
first step of the installation process is collecting the necessary equipment.
These tools include a drill or driver, circular and jigsaw, tape measure,
hammer, sledgehammer, a putty knife, framing square, end nippers, and a chalk
line.
Once you have all the
necessary equipment, the next step would be to measure the deck before
proceeding to cut the first decking plank. Once you have the measurements, you
can now cut the plant using a circular or power mitre saw. You can also opt to
use a jigsaw if you need to cut a hole into the plank to create a downspout.
The next step would be
to set the plank onto the deck using a putty knife. Having done this, you can
now proceed to measure the first deck board and make sure that it is parallel
to the outer edge of the deck. You then need to fasten the board to the corners
that are closest to the house by using screws. Make sure to install a hidden
fastener on the side of the plank and use a plastic tapping block and a hammer to drive
the spikes in.
Using a driver, drive
the screws inside each fastener and the joists. Once this is done, you can
proceed to cut the second decking plant right after measuring the lengths
against the hidden fasteners situated in the initial plank. After fastening the
planks, continue to lay the planks across the deck until you reach the outer
end of the deck, where you install the last plank.
Fitting
Fitting is one of the
essential aspects of constructing a deck of any kind. A qualified decking
fitter performs the task of the fitting.
How to Become a Qualified Composite Decking Boards Fitter
One of the primary
skills you need as a professional decking fitter is that you must possess vast
knowledge of the process of decking. This means that you should know how to
pick the tools used in installation and fitting and know how to use the tools.
There are several types of tools used in deck installation and fitting. As a
professional fitter, you need to know the difference between the devices and
how to pick the most suitable.
As a professional
fitter, you also need to know how to fit and cut the boards without necessarily
causing any form of damage to the boards. In addition to measuring the boards
and cutting them to the right measurements, the work of a fitter is also to
measure the size of the crews and ensure that they fit in the boards.
As a professional
decking fitter, you also need to ensure that you are conversant with the art in
such a way that you know how to blend the measurements of the different planks
in different sizes.
One of the benefits of
decking that most people are not aware of is the fact that it is easy to fit
due to its simplicity. Manufacturers of these products make sure that they are
easy to cut and install.
Factors That
Contractors Consider When Hiring a Decking Fitter
- The experience and know-how of the art and industry
- The cost of the services
- Some contractors may go as far as to analyse previous works done by the fitter
- The flexibility factors are also an important consideration.
Bottom Line
As the industry of
decking keeps gaining popularity, more manufacturers are dealing with
sustainable decking boards. These factors make it hard for buyers to make the
right choice. The main factor that buyers consider when making a choice is the
quality of the material.
