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How to Install Composite Decking

Welcome to the Dino Decking installation page, your go-to destination for expert guidance and instructional videos tailored specifically to Dino Decking composite products. Whether you’re considering revamping your outdoor space with Dino’s premium composite decking solutions or are already in the process of planning your project, you’re in the right place.

Videos & Guide

composite decking inspiration

This guide offers a comprehensive breakdown of the installation process, complete with individual sections dedicated to various components essential for a successful composite decking project. Each section features a detailed video tutorial along with step-by-step images and accompanying text, providing a comprehensive resource for every aspect of the installation. From the Composite Batten to Pedestals, Aluminium Joist, Fixings, Edging Trim, Skirting Board, and Bullnose Edge, every element is meticulously covered to ensure clarity and ease of understanding. 

Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or embarking on your first decking project, this guide equips you with the knowledge and confidence needed to achieve professional results. With our detailed instructions and visual aids, you can navigate each stage of the installation process with precision and efficiency, bringing your decking vision to life with ease.

Table of Contents

A Step-By-Step Video Guide on How to Fit Composite Decking

This is a single video that combines all seven individual installation videos into one. This condensed presentation offers a complete view of the composite decking installation process from start to finish. By presenting each step in a seamless sequence, this video streamlines the viewing experience, enabling you to follow the project’s progression effortlessly.

This video encompasses the following components of the installation process:

  • Composite Batten (00:00)
  • Pedestals (01:47)
  • Aluminium Joist (03:37)
  • Fixings (04:45)
  • Edging Trim (05:57)
  • Skirting Board (07:14)
  • Bullnose Edge (08:24)

For a detailed step-by-step picture and text guide or individual video tutorials for each product installation, please refer to the sections below.

Requirements & Information

Tools Required

  1. PPE
  2. Tape measure
  3. Circular Saw
  4. Mitre saw
  5. 60 – 80 Tooth Blade
  6. Electric Drill
  7. Cordless screwdriver
  8. Spirit level
  9. Hammer
  10. Mallet

Installation Requirements

  1. Butt joints should be between 8mm and 12mm to allow the boards to expand and contract.
  2. Butt joints should be supported by two lengths of joist, one for each decking board.
  3. A fastener should be used at the end of each decking board, at a butt joint and not shared across two decking boards.
  4. 20mm should be left around the deck, next to solid structures
  5. Joist centres should be no more than 300mm.
  6. The base should be solid such as concrete or hardcore.
  7. The decking should slope at around 10mm per meter towards a drainage are to allow water to drain easily.
  8. Any composite product should not be directly screwed though, excluding joists.
  9. Composite joists should be predrilled.
  10. Only Dino Decking fasteners are compatible to be used with Dino Decking composite decking products.

FAQ

Do I need to hire a professional?

While hiring a professional fitter isn’t necessary for installing your composite decking, you can confidently tackle the task yourself by following these straightforward steps. Even without prior construction experience, you’ll find it manageable.

However, if any aspect of the installation process leaves you uncertain, it’s advisable to enlist a professional’s help to ensure safety and precision. Should you proceed with a DIY approach, remember to prioritize your safety by wearing appropriate protective gear.

For all projects, including domestic or residential ones, maintaining the correct joist centres at 300mm is crucial. This ensures structural integrity, preventing flexing or bowing that could damage the boards and pose safety risks. A smaller joist spacing results in stronger decking, capable of withstanding higher foot traffic.

Butt joints are connections where two separate pieces of material are joined end-to-end, with or without a gap and without overlapping.

The decking should slope at around 10mm per meter towards a drainage area to allow water to drain easily. Additionally, your decking should be laid perpendicular to or at a 45-degree angle to the joists in the subframe to ensure structural integrity.

Our reversible decking boards provide flexibility in installation. You can choose either side – one features a natural wood grain effect, while the other displays a modern ridged pattern. Whether you prefer a single style or a blend of both for various garden areas, the decision is entirely aesthetic.

In many cases, installing composite decking in the UK falls under permitted development rights, meaning you likely won’t need planning permission. This is especially true if your decking covers less than 50% of your garden area. These decks can enhance your outdoor space without the hassle of navigating through extensive regulations. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm with your local planning authority or seek advice from a professional to ensure everything aligns smoothly with your project.

How to Install Composite Decking with Hidden Fastener Fixings

By following these detailed instructions, you’ll ensure a sturdy and professional installation of your decking using either the 3mm or 6mm clips.

To install your decking with the 3mm clips, follow these steps:

Step 1

Begin by positioning a starter fixing clip on each of your joists, ensuring joists are spaced at 300mm intervals.

How to install fixing / fasteners (Joist and starter clips)

Step 2

Place your first decking board onto the joists.

How to install fixing / fasteners (angle 2)

Step 3

Attach a 3mm hidden fixing clip on the opposite side of the decking board, using screws to secure firmly in place.

How to install fixing / fasteners (first decking board)

Step 4

Proceed to install the next decking board, repeating the process of placing the hidden fixing clip.

How to install fixing / fasteners (3mm)

Step 5

Continue this pattern until you reach the final board.

For the final board, install the starter fixing clips onto the joists and then slide the board into place securely.

How to install fixing / fasteners (starter clip)

When installing a deck with the 6mm clips, the process is slightly different:

Step 1

Slide the 6mm clips down the length of the decking boards meeting each joist spaced at 300mm intervals.

How to install fixing / fasteners (sliding 6mm clip)

Step 2

screw the 6mm clips into position to secure each decking board to the substructure below.

How to install fixing / fasteners, drill / screw 3mm fastener

How to Install Composite Decking Frame

A Composite Decking Substructure may utilise either composite battens/joists or raised aluminium joists supported by plastic adjustable pedestals. These options provide versatile and durable support for the decking material.

Composite Joist (Batten) Installation

A composite decking substructure can utilize 3-meter-long composite battens, each measuring 30mm in height and 50mm in width. These battens should be installed on a flat foundation or ground, as they may bend if raised. They need to be spaced 300mm apart to effectively support the decking boards. Fasten the decking boards to the battens using 3mm or 6mm screws to ensure a secure and stable installation.

Step 1

Proper Slope for Drainage: When laying the composite batten on the surface, it’s essential to create a slope of 10mm per meter towards a designated drainage area. This slope will allow water to flow easily and prevent pooling.

How to install composite batten / joist (gradient angle of 10mm per 1m)

Step 2

Batten Placement: Lay the battens flat on the surface while ensuring that the centres of your joists are spaced at a maximum of 300mm apart. This spacing is crucial for providing adequate support for your decking.

How to install composite batten / joist (300mm spacing of battens)

Step 1

Construct all pedestals.

How to build & construct adjustable rising plastic pedestal

Step 2

Ensure the ground allows for a slope of 10mm per meter towards a designated drainage area. This slope will allow water to flow easily and prevent pooling on top of the completed deck.

How to install adjustable rising plastic pedestal (adding drainage of 10mm per meter)

Step 3

Pedestals should be spaced 1200mm apart to support the length of the aluminium joist. Therefore each aluminium joist will have 4 pedestals supporting it across the 3.6m length. 

pedestal installation 1200mm spacing

Step 4

Adjacent Pedestals should be spaced 300mm apart, to support the length of the composite decking board

How to install adjustable rising plastic pedestal (300mm spacing)

Aluminium Joists Installation

Aluminium joists are perfect for raising decks with pedestals due to their exceptional strength. This video provides a step-by-step guide to ensure optimal structural integrity, including precise spacing and adding extra joists along the perimeter with joist hangers. Viewers will learn how to securely attach vertical joist pieces to the framework using metal brackets and rivets, creating a sturdy foundation for their decking project.

Step 1

Position the aluminium joists precisely at 300mm centres across your area with supports at every 1200mm.

How to install aluminium joist completed

Step 2

Along the perimeter, integrate additional joists using joist hangers. Ensure a strong attachment with rivets.

 

How to install aluminium joist (using pop rivet tool 2)

Step 3

Affix vertical joist pieces securely to the existing framework using metal brackets and rivets.

How to install aluminium joist (using pop rivet tool)

How to Install Composite Decking Accessories

The completion of most composite decks often entails the addition of accessories like skirting/fascia boards, edging/corner trims, or bullnose edges. Edging / corner trims are used where a quicker, easier installation is required.

Edging / Corner Trim Installation

This video shows how to install edging and corner trim for composite decking with clear, step-by-step instructions. It covers surface preparation, adhesive application, and securing the trim, offering useful tips to improve your deck’s look and durability. Suitable for both beginners and professionals, this video helps you successfully complete your composite decking project.

Step 1

To achieve precise corners and joints, you can mitre the edging trims using a circular/chop or mitre saw. This will ensure a clean and professional finish to your installation.

How to install composite edging trim (mitre saw, cutting to size)

Step 2

Before applying adhesive, make sure the surface is completely free from debris and clean and then apply outdoor grab adhesive to the designated surface area. Position the edging trim into place, ensuring it adheres firmly to the adhesive. Leave a space of 4-6mm where two edging trims meet. This gap is crucial to accommodate expansion.

How to install composite edging trim (adding adhesive)

Step 3 

(alternative fixture method)

When using screws, it’s essential to pre-drill the edging trim to prevent any damage to the product.

How to install composite edging trim (pre drilling corner trim)

Step 4 

(alternative fixture method)

Carefully screw the edging trim into place, making sure it is securely fastened and ensuring you maintain a 4-6mm gap where two edging trims meet to allow for expansion.

How to install composite edging trim (mitre saw, screw inserting)

Skirting / Fascia Board Installation

Installation of fascia/skirting boards on composite decking, focusing on finishing the deck’s vertical sides with precision. It covers each step, from cutting to securing the fascia boards, to help you achieve a seamless and polished look that enhances both aesthetics and durability. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional, this video provides valuable tips for perfecting the vertical finishing touches of your composite decking project. There are two methods of installation; Adhesive (step 1-2), or, Screw (Step 3-4). 

Step 1

Achieve precise corners and joints by mitring the skirting boards using a chop or mitre saw, ensuring a clean and professional finish to your installation.

How to install composite fascia skirting board (cutting to size)

Step 2

Before applying adhesive, thoroughly clean the surface of debris and ensure it’s clean. Apply outdoor grab adhesive to the designated area and position the skirting board firmly onto it.

How to install composite fascia skirting board (adding grab adhesive)

Step 3

Leave a gap of 4-6mm where two skirting boards meet to accommodate expansion.

How to install composite fascia skirting board (leaving 4-6mm gap between mitres)

Step 4

(alternative fixture method)

Pre-drill the skirting board before using screws to prevent any damage. 

How to install composite fascia skirting board (predrilling hole)

Step 5

(alternative fixture method)

Securely fasten the skirting board into place with screws, maintaining a 4-6mm gap where two skirting boards meet to allow for expansion.

Bullnose Edge Installation

Installing 90 degree corner trim for composite decking with clear, step-by-step instructions. This short guide covers the best method of securing the trim, offering useful tips to improve your deck’s look and durability. Suitable for both beginners and professionals, this video helps you successfully complete your composite decking project.

Installing a bullnose edging trim is a great way to give your project a professional and finished look. The process is a little more difficult to install that using a corner / edging trim. 

Step 1

Attach the 3mm or 6mm fixing clips to each joist. 

How to install bullnose edge (preparation)

Step 2

Apply an adhesive on the edge of the joist where the bullnose will be installed.

How to install bullnose edge (adding adhesive)

Step 3

Then, measure and cut the bullnose trim to the desired length mitre-ing any corner joints at 90 degrees. 

How to install composite edging trim (mitre saw, cutting to size)

Step 4

Once the fixings are attached, carefully align the bullnose trim with the edge of your project and press it firmly into place. Ensuring you work from one end of the bullnose to the other securing each clip as you move along the length.

How to install bullnose edge (installing second bullnose edge)

Step 5

To ensure the bullnose is secured in place, secure a 3mm or 6mm clip to the underside of the bullnose edge and screw them into the joist to hold the bullnose in place.

How to install bullnose edge (aluminium joist view to add decking board too)

Step 6

Secure your next decking board vertically onto the fixing clip and repeat to create the face of the desired raise height of the deck. In our example, only 2 decking board height is used. 

 

How to install bullnose edge

Step 7

Install a Starter Fixing at the bottom of the vertical Joist.

How to install bullnose edge (installing first board into 3mm fastener)

Step 8

Slide the final board between the 3mm or 6mm fixing and a starter fixing.

How to install bullnose edge (sliding last board into starter clip)

Deck Complete.

How to install bullnose edge (deck completed)

Does Dino Decking offer an Installation Service?

At Dino Decking, we specialise in providing high-quality garden products, particularly composite decking, through our e-commerce platform. However, when it comes to the question “Do you fit composite decking?”, the answer is no. We’re not tradesmen or involved in the fitting trade. Instead, our focus lies in delivering top-notch composite decking materials directly to you, the customer, through our online store. We pride ourselves on offering competitive prices by cutting out the middleman, ensuring you receive premium products at affordable rates. With a vast fleet of over 50 vehicles, we’re dedicated to delivering your decking promptly and efficiently once you place your order. So while we don’t provide fitting services, you can trust us to supply you with everything you need to create your dream outdoor space.

Dino Decking Logo

Composite products, including composite decking, have become immensely popular due to their durability, low maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal. While we, at Dino Decking, don’t provide fitting services, composite decking is relatively straightforward to install, making it a popular choice for garden fitters and carpenters. With its growing popularity, finding reputable tradesmen to fit our products is made easy through various avenues. A quick Google search or checking platforms like Checkatrade can connect you with skilled professionals who specialize in fitting composite decking. These platforms often feature reviews and ratings, allowing you to choose tradesmen with proven expertise and reliability for the job. However, hiring a professional fitter isn’t always necessary. You can confidently tackle the installation yourself by following our extensive installation guide and instructional videos. Even without prior construction experience, you’ll find it manageable. However, if any aspect of the installation process leaves you uncertain, it’s advisable to enlist a professional’s help to ensure safety and precision. Should you proceed with a DIY approach, remember to prioritise your safety by wearing appropriate protective gear.