How To Cut Composite Decking Properly
Composite decking material is one of the best alternatives to traditional lumber. Unlike regular wood decking, composite decking materials are made from recycled plastic and wood chips. This mixture of plastic and wood chips is then made into different sizes of decking through compression molding or co-extrusion molding methods.
Despite being more expensive, these composite decks are mostly used for outdoor decks today because they require less maintenance. To keep composite decking looking new, most people simply sweep and wash it every so often.
If you are planning to build a new composite deck and you are also a DIY enthusiast. Then you should have a plan ready before you start laying composite decking. You need to know how to use composite decking boards well to build your deck, both clean and professional.
Ultra Strong Core More Durable Composite Decking CPD-05
Proprietary double-tone art color tech brings you stunningly natural wood looking,enjoy a better outdoor life.
Table of Contents
Tool Requirements
There are many similarities between cutting regular wood and cutting composite decking boards. You can use a circular saw, miter saw or table saw. A circular saw blade is very important to make a clean cut without damaging the boards by getting too hot. If you want a quick cut and don’t want it to get too hot, you should use a dull blade with a carbide tip.
If you are using a 7 ½” circular saw, you should use a blade with about 20 teeth. If you are going to use a 10″ or 12″ table saw blade, you should use a blade with about 40 teeth. To make the project go smoothly, you’ll also need a speed square, a non-staining chalk line, and a tape measure. Using these tools will give you the best results for your deck.
Prepare Composite Decking Boards
Do everything possible to prepare the boards so you can cut them. Cover the composite decking boards and place them in a cool, dry place so they don’t get dirty. To ensure that the boards are flawless, it is best to wipe them down before cutting them. You will need to prepare the outer ends of the composite decking boards to keep them square after cleaning.
Use a speed ruler to measure a line on the short side of the board, stopping about ⅛” from the edge. To remove a small piece from the outside, cut along this line. You will now have a perfectly square board. If you are using composite decking boards, there is no need to sand the surface.
Sanding the surface often voids the warranty on your product. Composite decking boards resist fading and wear. In addition, sanding will make them much less effective, so don’t do any sanding. Once this is done, you can begin cutting lengths for installation.
Cutting Boards Straight
Any of the saws mentioned above can easily cut prepared composite decking boards. Straight boards are arranged in squares and can be used for most decks. Therefore, straight-cut boards are sufficient to complete the deck.
To ensure that the cuts are straight, use a speed tape and a chalk line. One usually measures the boards a few inches longer than the desired length and then lets one end overhang as it is cut. Then, make a single straight cut in the excess so that the edge of the deck is flat. After doing this, your outdoor deck will look very professional.
Diagonal Cutting of the Boards
Some decks have diagonal lines or treads that are at an angle to the flat edge. To fill in these areas, you can make special cuts called miter cuts. With a miter saw, you can cut all your boards at the exact angle you need. Unless you have special tools, no other saw can cut deck planks at the same angle every time.
Curved Boards
One of the unique features of Composite decking boards is that they are easier to mold because of the way they are made. When heated, these composite decks bend, allowing workers to make boards with many curves and bends. If done the right way, it can make for a very unique look.
Most people who do projects at home should hire a professional because bending can be difficult, even with the right heating equipment. Nonetheless, cutting composite decking boards is as easy as cutting straight or mitered boards. Keep in mind that you may need to make a few more cuts near the sides because the curves are not all the same shape.
Cutting composite decking boards is easy and can be done by anyone involved in home improvement. Most of the tools needed to work with regular wood already exist, so the average woodworker will likely already have the tools needed to work with composite decking materials.
Do I Need to Hire a Professional?
If you want to cut and install composite decking or any other type of decking, it may be easier to have a professional do it than to do it yourself. While you can do it yourself, we recommend that you hire a professional installer because they have many benefits, for example:
- They know how to build a beautiful deck that fits your needs and the room.
- They can install curves and patterns, including those used for trim, as well as built-in chairs, railings, stairs, and other features.
- Obtaining the necessary licenses to comply with local regulations, such as building codes.
- Complete projects faster because they have the expertise and tools to work efficiently.
- Get the best prices because they can obtain products from multiple sources.
Summary
In general, cutting composite decking boards is the same as cutting lumber and wood decking. However, composite decking has specific storage and installation practices that help to achieve a glossy finish.
DIY deck installation isn’t easy, but having a beautiful new deck has many benefits in terms of lifestyle and equity. If you want to expand your outdoor living space but don’t want to cut your deck, hire a professional deck contractor to build your deck for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Cutting Composite Decking Void My Warranty?
No, Composite decking boards can be cut into a variety of deck designs and sizes. Tears and cross cuts are acceptable for composite decking and will not void your warranty.
Do I Need a Special Blade to Cut Composite Decking?
A specialized blade is not required to cut composite decking, but a sharp blade produces the best results. We usually recommend a sharp, smooth surface carbide blade with a high number of teeth, depending on the type of saw and the size of the blade.
Should I Sand My Composite Decking?
No need. Most modern composite decking has a protective polymer cover to protect against moisture, UV rays, and other damage. Sanding composite decking boards can damage the protective cover, which will void the warranty and affect the appearance and performance of the composite decking.
Related Post
