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What Base Do You Need for Composite Decking?

A sturdy and stable composite decking base is essential for any new composite decking project. Composite decking is made from an incredibly tough and durable mix of materials, but it still needs a solid foundation to ensure it is sound, safe and secure. What base do you need for composite decking, and what else do you need to know?

It’s important that your composite decking base is designed and installed properly so it can provide the stability, safety and longevity you want from your deck. You must consider both the composite decking surface – the ground or surface that the composite decking base will sit on – and the material and components of the base itself. We will take you through everything you need to know about how to build a base for composite decking, along with some of the potential issues you should be aware of.

 

Article contents

 

What is a Composite Decking Base?

To make your deck safe, secure and stable, you will need a solid and suitable base. This usually takes the form of a substructure or frame made from horizontal joists. It can also use components such as vertical posts, special fasteners and fixings, and adjustable pedestals, which are useful for making the frame level on an uneven surface. The subframe can be made of different materials, including timber, aluminium, and composite materials.

For step-by-step instructions on how to install your decking, including how to build a base for composite decking, check out our comprehensive installing composite decking guide.

 

Different Composite Decking Base Surfaces

Concrete

The surface on which your composite decking base sits should ideally be sturdy and level. Concrete can be a great surface for a decking base thanks to its strength and stability. If you have an existing concrete surface, you might want to consider using it underneath your composite decking base, but it can incur extra costs and effort if you need to install a concrete surface from scratch. If you have a concrete surface that is sloping or uneven, you can still use it as a surface for your base, using adjustable pedestals to ensure you end up with a level decking base.

 

Stone Slabs

Just like concrete, stone slabs or paving stones can be an ideal surface for a composite decking base because they also provide strength, stability and durability. Again, it will help keep costs down if you already have slabs in your garden. If you need to expand the area for a larger decking base, it can be easier to add a few new slabs than expanding a concrete surface.

As with concrete, it may be best to use pedestals when laying decking on slabs as they can be adjusted. This means that if your slabs are uneven or slightly off-kilter, the pedestals will make up for it, ensuring an even base on which to install your composite decking boards.

 

Soil or Gravel

If you use soil or gravel as a surface, it needs to be compacted so it forms a solid foundation for the decking base. For extra stability, you can place gravel over compacted soil and then compact the whole surface thoroughly. Remove any weeds or vegetation and install a weed membrane to avoid more weeds growing through in the future. Our heavy-duty weed membrane is durable and affordable. It is also easy to install and can go unnoticed beneath your decking. Composite posts are generally suitable for use on a soil or gravel surface.

No matter which surface you use, it is important to prepare the ground properly before beginning the installation of your composite decking base.

 

What Material Should the Base be Made of?

Timber Frame

As well as knowing how to build your composite decking base, you will also need to consider what material the base itself should be made of.

Timber is a traditional option, and timber bases can be used to support composite decking boards. However, this is not ideal as timber can splinter and rot over time, making the frame unsteady and potentially unsafe. It is also best to use specially designed fasteners with composite decking boards rather than the screws typically used to secure decking boards to a timber frame.

 

Aluminium Frame

Aluminium is another popular option. It tends to be more durable and long-lasting than timber, but it can be expensive. It can also provide an unnatural look when used with a wooden or composite deck, but the fact that the frame will be hidden beneath the deck means that it won’t be noticeable from above.

 

Composite Frame

Composite decking is quickly becoming the best option for many people because it is affordable, long-lasting and weather resistant. Composite boards are also low-maintenance as they require no painting, protective treatments or extensive annual upkeep. They will not split or splinter, and they are incredibly durable and eco-friendly. 

The best base for composite decking will also be made of composite materials, as they offer all the same benefits applied to the decking infrastructure. Composite joists and other components are as durable and resistant to water, rot, warping and splintering as the boards above. The boards can also be fastened securely to the frame without needing to drill directly into them.

 

Build a Premium Composite Decking Base With Dino Decking

A suitable base is an essential part of any decking project. If you are thinking about installing a new deck or replacing a tired or damaged existing deck, Dino Decking’s composite decking could be your ideal choice. Mixing stylish looks with rugged durability, it’s both attractive and practical, in addition to being a durable, eco-friendly choice for your garden.

Explore our extensive range of composite decking boards, along with our essential composite decking frame components for a durable and long-lasting deck.

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