How to Repair Composite Decking

It’s unlikely that your composite decking will need repairing as it is so durable. Our composite decking is designed to resist warping, cracking and splintering and is also far more resistant to weather than traditional timber decking. Life can happen though, especially with pets, heavy garden furniture or heavy footfall, and it can be good to know how to repair composite decking.

Getting professional help is always an option, but you might want to fix some issues yourself, especially for minor damage that only affects a small area. In this article, we’ll look at some of the issues that can affect your decking and explain how to restore composite decking to full health.

Article Contents

• Benefits of Repairing Your Own Composite Decking
• How to Repair a Scratch
• How to Repair Discoloured Composite Decking
• How to Repair Warped Composite Decking
• How to Avoid Future Damage
• Discover High-Quality Composite Decking

Benefits of Repairing Your Own Composite Decking

Composite decking can be relatively easy to install, though if you have a more complex design in mind or are not confident in your own abilities, it might be best to call in a professional. Our blog on whether to go for DIY or professional decking installation could help you to decide. Even if you have composite decking installed professionally though, you should still be able to carry out your own minor repairs. You don’t need experience or prior knowledge of how to repair decking; just follow our step-by-step guide.

There are a number of benefits to repairing composite decking yourself, including:

• Reduced costs – It will usually cost much less to repair decking yourself compared to calling in a professional. There may still be some costs for materials and tools, but labour costs can soon add up. There may also be a disproportionate call-out fee for a quick and easy repair.
• Sense of accomplishment – There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of completing a project yourself.
• Flexibility – You can work to your own schedule and don’t have to make arrangements for workmen to have access to your property.
• Learning new skills – Carrying out your own repairs can help you hone or develop new DIY skills and confidence, some of which may also be useful for other projects.

All that said, you should also be realistic about your own abilities. If the damage is too extreme or if you’re worried about the stability or safety of the deck, it might be time to consider calling in the professionals.

Step-by-Step Guides on How to Repair Composite Decking

If you do want to make DIY repairs, it’s important to know how to repair composite decking safely and effectively. This can vary depending on the type and severity of the damage. You will also need the right tools or equipment for the job.

In the guides below, we will go through some of the most common issues and explain what you need and how to carry out the repairs for each scenario.

Repairing a Composite Deck Scratch or Hole

Finding a scratch or small hole in your decking is one of the most common issues you might come across. Even tough and durable composite materials can be damaged by accident. Luckily, it also tends to be the easiest damage to fix, takes very little time and doesn’t cost a lot.

Your composite decking repair kit will vary depending on the damage you are repairing. For repairing a scratch, you will generally need:

• Decking cleaner – for cleaning the area.
• Sandpaper – to smooth off the surface and filler.
• Composite decking filler – there are different types including wax fillers, composite wood fillers and ceramic repair pastes. They can also come in different colours to match the decking.
• Putty knife – for applying the filler if it does not have an applicator.

To repair the scratch, follow these steps:

Step 1 – Clear the Area

Clear the area of furniture, plants, etc. Sweep away any debris and use decking cleaner to thoroughly clean the area to be repaired.

Step 2 – Sanding

Sand the scratch until it is smoothed off and at the same level as the surrounding decking. Use a fine-grade sandpaper for this.

Step 3 – Apply Filler

Apply the filler in a thin and even layer with a putty knife or applicator. Smooth it flush to the decking boards and remove any excess.

Step 4 – Leave to Dry

Wait for the filler to dry, referring to the instructions for the type of filler used. Sand off to a smooth finish.

Repairing Discoloured Composite Decking

Your composite decking should retain its pigment for a long time, but a small amount of fading is natural and many people prefer a more natural look. Discoloured composite decking may simply need a thorough cleaning. It is not generally advisable or necessary to paint composite decking, but you may still want to if the discolouration is severe. You should only use compatible paint – generally a high-quality paint with a 100% acrylic latex exterior. You can check our guide to painting composite decking for more information.

To repair discoloured composite decking, you may need:

• Bucket – for holding water and cleaner.
• Deck cleaner – to clean the decking boards.
• Sponge – to help you thoroughly clean the area.
• Soft bristled bush – to remove debris.
• Jet washer (optional) – for stubborn stains or discolouration.
• Decking paint and brush (optional) – if cleaning isn’t enough.

Follow these steps to repair discoloured decking.

Step 1 – Deal with Debris

Sweep away any loose debris.

Step 2 – Rinse

Rinse the decking thoroughly using your bucket or a hose pipe.

Step 3 – Apply the Solution

Apply the cleaning solution and work into the boards with a soft-bristled brush or sponge.

Step 4 – Rinse and Dry

Rinse the area thoroughly and leave to dry.

Step 5 – Jet Wash

You could try a jet or power washer on stubborn stains, but this should be done very carefully and at low power only. Check out our guide to jet washing composite decking for more information.

Repairing Warped Composite Decking

Composite decking is designed to resist warping. You are unlikely to come up against this issue, but there may be some occasions when you need to know how to fix warped composite decking. In general, composite decking boards will only warp if they have been incorrectly installed. In such a case, you will usually need to replace the whole board.

To replace warped composite decking boards, you will generally need:

• Replacement composite decking board – sourced to match the design and colour of existing boards.
• Saw – for cutting the board to be replaced.
• Pry bar or claw hammer – for prying the board up.

Follow these steps to repair warped decking.

Step 1 – Cut

Make two parallel cuts in the board you want to replace so that you can remove the centre and access the two ends.

Step 2 – Remove the Board

Pry off the remaining end pieces using a pry bar or claw hammer.

Step 3 – Install the New Board

Slide the new board into the gap, making sure that it is attached to the hidden fasteners.

How to Avoid Future Damages to Your Composite Decking

Composite decking is built for durability using an eco-friendly mix of recycled plastic and wood fibres. It is weather-, stain- and scratch-resistant, so you really shouldn’t have too much trouble with normal wear and tear. There are a few things you can do to avoid damage, however, including the following:

• Make sure that heavy furniture is not dragged across the boards.
• Furniture pads or ‘shoes’ can help prevent scratches.
• Put down an outdoor rug for kids or pets,
• Clean spills and stains as soon as possible after they occur.
• Clean the decking regularly.
• Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes on the decking.
• Store away furniture and items that may topple during strong winds or storms.

Get Durable Composite Decking Today

When it comes to a choice between composite decking vs wood decking, composite decking has some clear advantages. It is far more durable and resistant to various kinds of damage, including scratching, rot, rain, warping, and damage from insects and mould. When damage does occur, it is generally relatively easy to deal with.

If you’re considering starting a new decking project or upgrading an existing one, take a look at our full range of composite decking for inspiration.