how slippery is composite decking

Composite decking is maintenance free Decking can get especially slippery in damp environments. Is composite decking slippery? This and similar anti-slip products typically contain either sand or aggregates that are mixed into paint or resin to provide extra traction. Often the stairs leading up to a deck provide an emergency entrance and exit to the home and must be kept accessible for safety reasons. TimberTech maintains its color and elegance for years without the need of annual painting or staining. If you live in a moist climate or your deck is shaded, these factors will expedite the growth of these organisms, as they thrive in a damp, dark environment. Ask a Question, how to make your Trex decking less slippery, Some are made in part with eco-friendly recyclables, like bamboo, Can be more expensive per-foot than natural wood, Some brands with a smooth cap are slippery, especially when wet, Some brands look “fake” and are not as attractive as natural wood, Can be prone to algae, mold or mildew, if the composite absorbs water. Composite decking is one of the most durable decking materials on the market. It is very dangerous to slip on decks. Even with a build up of algae, anti slip decking will remain slip resistant. Unlike Trex and TimberTech, MacLumber is not a well-known brand, however they do maintain their synthetic lumber is among the best manufactured. C. Chat With Us Even the buildup of pollen and other debris can create a slippery surface when moisture is present. The most common reason why composite decking becomes slippery are different dirt and organic particulates that accumulates on the surface. The primary reasons that synthetic wood is popular include: Of course, there are trade-offs when using synthetic wood for outdoor structures. Install Shingles or Rolled Roofing on Slippery Steps. There are a multitude of problems with composite decking that show up all too often to be just a stray issue for a hard to please homeowner. They are involved in research, development and marketing of long lasting composite, wood-plastic, and PVC decking, railing and fencing solutions. In wood decking, the absorption of water and becoming moist makes it a perfect host for fungal growth. The cost of composite decking is a significant factor to consider. Algae is the top cause of a slippery deck, and the … If you leave your decking untreated, it can become incredibly sleek and can cause dangerous slips and falls. The best strategy for a slip-resistant deck surface, whether made of wood or composite material, is to perform routine cleaning and maintenance. Afterwards, scrub the deck boards with a scrub brush attached to a wood or broom handle (this makes the process much easier and faster). Wood is more likely to have smooth spots created by wear; such spots may be slippery when wet. Water absorption also led to problems with mold and mildew, making the deck even more slippery. Synthetic wood continues to grow in popularity, especially for use on backyard decks and other outdoor structures. And it resists mildew, warping and insects, removing the need to replace rotting, uneven or termite-damaged boards. If you plan to install decks by the pool or in a humid environment such as frequent rain, you will first be concerned about the safety of decks. Composite decking has a textured finish that mimics real wood grain. The deck is not slippery and cleans easily when power washed once a year. Although there are specified ASTM methods of measuring slip resistance, there is currently no building code requirement for minimum slip resistance. Yes, composite decking is easier to clean and lasts for many years. Timber decking is left exposed to relentless weathering and often succumbs to moisture build up. Install a Non-slip Deck. However, we would still recommend cleaning non slip decking to keep it looking its best. MacLumber, headquartered in Bamberg SC, is a manufacturer and supplier of plastic lumber used for decking and other outdoor areas. Most brands of composite decking have textured finishes to make them slip-resistant. Whether your deck is made of natural wood or composite decking material, each can be just as slippery as the other under the conditions described above. Real wood is more likely to have smooth spots caused by algae growth and wear on the surface of the wood. Promptly sweeping leaves from your deck – particularly after storms and rain – will prevent the buildup of moisture on the deck surface and the growth of mold, mildew, and algae. They had composite decking there as their walkways and we were out one morning running through the geyser field. Now there are more than 50 composite decking products available. If you have this type of decking installed around your home or business, it is advisable to treat your surfaces as soon as possible. Composite decking is maintenance free Decking can get especially slippery in damp environments. Apply the cleaning solution and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. TimberTech®, founded in 1996 and headquartered in Wilmington OH, is a leading manufacturer. Keep your Deck Clear of Debris to Prevent Algae. If residue or stains persist, try using alcohol wipes. DuraLife’s unique polypropylene and hardwood composite decking is designed to provide superior strength, outperforming other types of composite and PVC decking products. Use a broad fanning nozzle with the power washer to avoid causing damage to paint or wood stain. Sunlight and rain can cause wood to crack or rot, and mold growing on decks can also make decks slippery. A structurally sound composite deck should be designed to withstand a great amount of downward pressure from the weight of snowpack. But how does that help someone who wants to install this product outdoors? P.  877-328-7389 Most people don’t realize, in terms of safety, that composite decks are actually more dangerous than lumber found at a big box store due to the manufacturing process and materials. This is perhaps the most important step in preventing a slippery deck surface. Q. Note that composite decking is unlike wood decking because it does not become slippery easily. The above information is great, especially the transferrable warranty, but what about the dangers? Here is a comprehensive article on how to make your Trex decking less slippery . This helps make it slip resistant. We all know carpet can stain no matter what liquid is tossed on it. Finish by thoroughly rinsing with a hose and then allowing it to dry. It’s even more than redwood or cedar if you use a standard grade of lumber. This gives plastic wood decking an advantage over other decking materials. Composite decking does not splinter or crack and does not become as slippery as solid plastic in winter months. Their best-known product is called NyloDeck; not made of wood nor PVC, but instead recycled carpet fiber. TimberTech also offers a 25-year warranty coverage, and that warranty can be transferred to a second homeowner. Lastly, if you’re looking for a little extra slip resistance for high traffic areas, steps or other areas of concern, consider a marine grade anti-slip product, such as Rust-Oleum Marine Anti-Slip Additive. The cost of using composite decking for your home is 50% more than what you would pay for pressure-treated wood. Our composite decking boards are incredibly low-maintenance, and only require a sweep with a stiff brush to remove any debris from the surface. Unfortunately, composite or conglomerate decking usually leads to slippery surfaces, especially when wet. Fading and Scratching Trex composite decking products are infused with stain-resistant, fade-resistant color throughout the entire board to minimize the look of any surface scratches, giving uniform color all the way through. This may seem harmless at first, but the longer you wait to clear debris off your deck, the longer moisture will stick around, providing the conditions for mold, mildew, algae and moss to grow and cause a slippery deck surface. 1. Owners of this type of decking will know that over time, their deck can become a breeding ground for algae, mildew and moss – which is the biggest contributor of a slippery deck area. The accounts of issues are repeated with a frightening regularity and sameness throughout the threads of complaints. The right ice and snow melts can help prevent scratches and slippery surfaces on your composite deck. These planks are then sheathed in plastic or a compound containing a combination of plastic, resin and wood fiber. According to Richmond, who installs plastic and composite decks, all-plastic planks seem to be a little more slippery than regular wood, whereas composites are not. These are algae or fungal growth, molds, or mildew, which can make the surface slippery. Along the way it picked up a reputation for being slippery, which is fair, since the early generations of composite could be … Trex Company, Inc, founded in 1996 and headquartered in Winchester VA, created, refined and perfected the category regarding composite decking, becoming the world’s largest manufacturer of wood-alternative decking products. Whether your deck is made of natural wood or composite decking material, each can be just as slippery as the other under the conditions described above. I know that not all composites are like that and some that are textured, that have a grain pattern to them, are not going to be as slippery. Some benefits of this product include: Strong, lightweight, easy-to-use; impervious to mold, mildew and termites; no rot or swelling; UV protected; strength and rigidity enable joist spans up to 24″ O.C. A thorough cleaning each year, ideally with a pressure washer, will allow the natural wood grain (or simulated wood grain on composite decks) to provide extra traction and slip-resistance. Then you have the problem of dealing with a cold or frozen carpet in the winter. For many people, it’s not the entire deck that’s a … List of the Cons of Composite Decking. The quality of the sheathing often determines how much or little moisture the synthetic wood board will absorb and thus how susceptible it might be to slip and fall conditions. Available products include wood-plastic composite, all available in earth or other natural tones a great alternative... Are trade-offs when using synthetic wood for outdoor structures stiff brush to remove any debris from the of. We know, but winter weather can aggravate an already dangerous situation it. Than done, we would still recommend cleaning non slip decking will remain slip resistant of plastic, resin wood. Surface when moisture is present sprayer will also get the job done products, in... Headquartered in Bamberg SC, is a great low-maintenance alternative to wood deck is an extension of your living.... Has a high slip resistance than redwood or cedar if you use broad. Astm methods of measuring slip resistance such spots may be slippery when wet created... 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