Building composite decking and railings is a great way to enhance the outdoor living space while ensuring durability and low maintenance. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from mounting railing posts to composite decking installation and assembling railings. Let’s dive into the steps to create a stunning composite deck.
Before You Begin
If you’re planning to use a solid wooden frame made of pressure-treated lumber, here’s how you can start installing composite decking and railings. Make sure to properly prepare the space and materials before moving ahead.
Pre-Installation Requirements:
- Pressure-treated lumber frame
- Composite decking materials
- WPC railing components
- Mounting hardware
- Installation tools
Step-by-Step Installation Process
1.Mounting the Railing Posts
Step1: Calculate the Number of Posts Needed
Ensure the posts are spaced according to local building codes and decking plans.
Step 2: Reinforce With Bracing
Along the end joists, use deck screws to attach extra bracing between the floor joists and end joists to mount the anchors.
Step 3: Install the Posts
Install posts along the end joists securely using anchors and brackets.
Step 4: Drill the Bolt holes
Mark the joist at the center of the post and drill two bolt holes through the end joist and post
Step 5: Insert the Carriage Bolt and Position the Anchor
Insert the carriage bolt in the top hole, place the anchor and tighten the nut and washer.
Step 6: Insert the Second Carriage Bolt
Secure a second bolt through the bottom hole. Each post should have two carriage bolts, but will only need one anchor.
Step 7: Attach the Back Anchor
Attach an anchor on the back of the bracing for added strength.
Step 8: Install Posts in the Corners
For posts in the corners, add bracing around the post and secure it with anchors. Again, cut the bracing from the same material you used for the joists.
Step12: Brace the Rim Joist
Along the rim joist, add similar bracing behind the posts with screws and corner brackets, then secure the posts with carriage bolts.
2. Composite Decking Installation Steps
Once all the posts are secured you can install the decking. For a cleaner look, use hidden deck clips and grooved composite boards. If you deck will have parting boards running down the middle, install decking on either side of the bracing you installed to support them. You’ll trim the decking before installing the parting boards.
Step 1: Fix the Starter Clips
Fix the starter clips with screws to the rim joist.
Step 2: Lay the First Board
Push the first deck board into the starter clips, ensuring a secure fit.
Step 3: Insert the Clips
At every joist, use hidden clips for secure installation.
Step 4: Continue Installing the Boards
Install the boards one by one with screws and clips.
Step 5: Lay the Last Board
Trim the board in place and attach with screws. Later you can cover the cut edge with a fascia board.
Step 6: Trim the Boards
Trim any boards to size to ensure a perfect fit.
Step 7: Install the Parting Boards
At the center of the deck, install the parting boards for a neat finish.
Step 8: Secure the Parting Boards
Secure the parting boards in place with composite decking screws.
3. Installing the Railings
Once your decking is installed, it’s time to assemble the railings. Begin by assembling the rail and balusters, ensuring a solid and safe structure.
Step 1. Assembling the Rail and Baluster
Note: 1). The top & bottom rail need to insert the steel liner tube to increase support.
2). Position the distance of baluster, screw the plastic tenon on the top & bottom rail with 4*25mm stainless steel screws.
Step 2. Overall Fixing and Assembling
Note: Ensuring the entire system is fixed in place with connectors and brackets.
FAQs About Composite Decking Installation
How do I cut composite decking?
Composite decking can be cut using a circular saw or miter saw with a fine-toothed blade. Always wear safety gear, as the dust can be harmful, and ensure you have a stable surface to cut on.
How do I deal with expansion and contraction of composite decking?
Composite decking expands and contracts with temperature changes, so it’s important to leave proper gaps between boards (usually around 1/8 to 1/4 inch) and along edges for expansion.
Can I install composite decking over existing wood decking?
Yes, it’s possible to install composite decking over existing wood decking as long as the original structure is still sound. However, it’s crucial to ensure there’s enough ventilation between the layers to avoid moisture buildup.
Conclusion
With these simple steps, you can successfully build a durable and aesthetically pleasing composite deck and railings. Follow this guide carefully, and soon you’ll have a beautiful deck to enjoy for years to come. Remember to maintain your composite decking with occasional cleaning to keep it looking new.
Reference：
How to Install Composite Decking and Railings
Bongywood Wood Plastic Composite
Guangdong Bangying New Building Materials Co., Ltd. is a professional manufacturer specializing in the R&D, production, and sales of WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) materials, our products include composite decking, capped composite decking, WPC Wall Panel, WPC Railing & Fencing, WPC Pergola & Gazebo, WPC Chairs & Bench, WPC Flower Planter Pots, etc.
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