How to Protect Composite Decking: Full Guide

Find out how protecting your composite decking can help keep your decking looking its best for years to come.

You might already be aware that composite decking is far more durable and longer lasting than traditional timber decking. Made from an eco-friendly blend of wood and recycled plastic, it is tough and scratch resistant. It is also far more resistant to water, sun and insects – all of which can cause decking to rot, warp, splinter or fade. It’s not invulnerable though, and there are some common activities and situations that could mar the finish or damage the boards.

You’ll naturally want to extend your deck’s lifespan and keep it looking fresh and feeling steady underfoot. This article will explain how to protect composite decking to keep it at its best season after season.

Article contents

• Why is it Important to Protect Composite Decking?
• How to Protect Composite Decking From Furniture?
• Protecting Composite Decking From Animals
• Essential Decking Maintenance Tips

Why is it Important to Protect Composite Decking?

Composite decking is designed to be more durable than traditional wooden decking. It is purpose-built to resist cracking, splitting, warping, mould and rot. It is also more resistant to scratching and staining than timber boards, and it retains these qualities without needing to be constantly repainted, stained or treated.

One of the key advantages of composite decking is its low-maintenance requirements. However, while it is more durable than other types of decking materials, it still needs to be protected from extreme weather, pests and physical damage. It’s also worth remembering that most decking comes with a warranty that can be affected by certain types of damage.

How to Protect Composite Decking From Furniture

When thinking about composite decking protection, you should consider what could potentially damage the structure and/or surfaces of the decking. One prime culprit is outdoor furniture. Decking furniture is a must for many outdoor spaces, but it can sometimes cause scratches and scuffs, especially if scraped along the decking surfaces.

However, there are a few solutions you can implement if you are serious about protecting your composite decking.

Use Furniture Leg Pads

Furniture leg pads or feet can be a very useful composite decking protector. They are essentially small pads or covers that fit over the ends of furniture legs and provide a cushion between the furniture and the deck. They can come in a variety of materials, including rubber, plastic or foam, and also come in different sizes to fit different types and styles of furniture.

Buy an Outdoor Rug

Another option for protecting your composite decking is buying an outdoor rug. An outdoor rug is not only stylish but can also protect your decking from furniture scratches and other damage such as spillages. Also, kids and pets might appreciate the extra comfort if playing or lazing on the deck!

Outdoor rugs can protect a large area in one go and can really add the wow factor to many outdoor spaces. You should only go for special outdoor rugs, however, as they are made from materials that resist water, UV rays and mildew. Regular rugs can soon get damp and smelly, especially with the UK’s unpredictable weather.

Avoid Moving Furniture

This point might be easier said than done, but minimising movement of furniture can really help prevent decking from being scratched and worn. It may help to have pieces of dedicated garden furniture placed in specific positions. If you do move furniture, try to make sure you pick it up clear of the decking rather than drag it across the surface.

Protecting Composite Decking from Animals

Domestic pets such as cats and dogs shouldn’t really cause any damage to composite decking unless any mess is created – and this should be picked up and cleaned as soon as possible. Rats are the ones to watch out for. They can sometimes take shelter under decking, and this can lead to gnawing damage and staining as they brush against the decking and trim. Composite decking can be less prone to rat infestation as it is less likely to rot, splinter or warp, giving less access to the space underneath.

You might want to take steps to rat-proof your decking, however, as well as any compost bins and other potential sources of food.

Essential Decking Maintenance Tips

Clean Your Decking

Composite decking is very low maintenance compared to traditional timber decking, but it still needs an occasional clean to keep it at its best. Try to wipe up spillages shortly after they occur and regularly sweep away dirt and detritus.

When it comes to cleaning composite decking, you can use a specialised composite decking cleaner, or simply soap and water with a soft brush.

Clear the Gaps

When installing your decking boards, you should leave adequate gaps to allow for the fact that the boards will expand and contract as the temperature and other weather conditions change. This does mean that leaves and debris can get trapped in the gaps though, which can also attract moisture. Regularly clearing the gaps between decking boards can help prevent mould and mildew growth, as well as removing visible items.

Discover our Range of Composite Decking

While it’s important to understand how to protect composite decking, it’s also worth remembering that Dino Decking’s composite decking boards are already scratch-resistant and far more durable than timber alternatives.

If you want to explore the wide range of decking colours and configurations available, you can order a completely free sample pack today or get in touch with our friendly team for more help and advice.