Decking FAQs: Your Composite and Wood Deck Questions Answered

Composite decking boards are made from recycled materials and processed into a durable, low-maintenance surface. We install Sylvanix composite decking, which resists warping, splintering, and moisture in ways untreated wood cannot match over time.

Our decks are built with safety in mind from the start. We follow manufacturer instructions and local building codes closely, so your decking, railing, and surrounding structure are properly installed and built to feel solid underfoot. The materials we use are also designed to resist splintering, cracking, and decay, which helps create a safer surface for your family, guests, and our crew during installation.

Grooved boards are designed for hidden fasteners, so you get a cleaner-looking deck surface without visible screws across the top. They can also help reduce material waste during installation.

Our products feature one or more unique features that can help contractors reduce waste by up to 15% per job. Grooved (GV) boards come in a variety of lengths, so our deck builders will have to cut fewer boards to fit, creating less scrap. Reversible boards have usable surfaces on both sides, reducing the number of cuts needed and eliminating waste.

Yes. Composite decking can sometimes be installed over a concrete patio, but it still needs the right framing underneath. The boards cannot sit directly on the concrete because water needs room to drain and air needs space to move.

Durante will look at the patio first, then determine what type of framing is needed. In many cases, this means using 2x6 or 2x8 structural joists, with 2x8 joists required for certain post-mount applications. We also leave proper spacing between boards and maintain clearance between the framing and the concrete so the finished deck performs as it should.

Limited-ventilation installations require a minimum of 6 inches of clear ventilation space beneath the deck. Adequate airflow prevents moisture accumulation beneath the structure and protects both the decking and the framing. Proper ventilation planned at the beginning avoids costly corrections later.

Yes. Humidity, heavy rain, and temperature swings can all affect how long a deck lasts. That’s why Durante focuses on proper framing, spacing, drainage, and airflow from the start. We also help homeowners choose low-maintenance materials, like composite decking, when they want a deck that holds up better with less upkeep.

We install RDI composite railing on our decks. RDI railing resists the same weather conditions as composite decking and comes in styles to suit different deck aesthetics. See our composite railing page for available options.

Clean your composite deck twice yearly, ideally in spring and fall. For routine debris removal, use a broom or leaf blower. When scrubbing, work with the grain rather than against it to prevent debris from working into the boards’ texture. For detailed seasonal maintenance practices, see our post on how to properly clean and maintain your composite deck.

Yes, but composite decks should be power-washed at or below 1,500 PSI, keeping the nozzle at least 12 inches above the surface. Use only wide fan tips, as narrow tips concentrate force and can damage boards even at lower pressures.

Composite decking doesn't require sealing. The material is manufactured to resist moisture absorption, unlike wood, which requires periodic sealing and staining.

Use denatured alcohol or a PVC pipe-cleaning liquid on affected areas. Let it sit briefly, then wipe with a clean cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbers, which scratch the surface finish.

No, exposure to saltwater has not been found to be detrimental to our composite decking material.

Not usually, but some composites do stain from dripping grease. Place a vinyl-backed splatter guard mat underneath your grill.

We use Yellawood pressure-treated lumber for wood deck installations. Pressure treatment resists rot, insects, and moisture, making it suited for outdoor exposure in Alabama and Tennessee climates. Yellawood has a strong regional track record and holds up well in local heat and humidity.

Pressure-treated wood is a solid option if you want a lower upfront cost and a traditional wood look. It performs well in outdoor conditions when maintained properly, but it does require ongoing care to keep it looking and performing its best. During your consultation, we can walk through whether wood or composite makes more sense based on how you plan to use the space and how much maintenance you are comfortable with.

Wood decks require ongoing attention: sealing, staining, and periodic inspection for warping, cracking, or soft spots. Composite requires very little maintenance once installed. The choice often comes down to upkeep time versus upfront material cost. Our post on why composite decking is better than wood compares the long-term considerations in detail.

A pressure-treated wood deck can last 10 to 20 years or more, depending on how well it is maintained and how it is built. Regular sealing, proper drainage, and routine inspections all play a role in extending its lifespan. In Alabama and Tennessee, managing moisture and sun exposure is especially important to help the deck hold up over time.

Tile decking is a system made from custom-poured concrete that is designed to mimic the look of tile while providing a solid, long-lasting surface. Unlike traditional wood decking, it does not rot, peel, or support mold growth, and it holds its appearance well over time. It is also non-combustible, which can be an added benefit for some homeowners.

Because it is made from concrete, tile decking is built for long-term durability. When installed correctly, it can last for decades with minimal upkeep. Its resistance to weathering, moisture, and everyday wear makes it a longer-lasting option compared to many traditional decking materials.

Tile decking is a premium choice. With proper reinforcement, tile deck systems support up to 1,000 pounds per tile.

The good news is that tile decking is very easy to clean. Unlike wood decks, which need to be regularly sanded and stained, our concrete tile decking only requires an occasional rinse with the garden hose to maintain its like-new appearance.

The cost of your tile decking all depends on the design of the deck, but you’ll be happy to know that it is a more affordable option than other types of decking on the market. During your free, in-home consultation, our design team will draft a blueprint of your new deck and provide a no-obligation quote on the spot.

Yes, tile decking is strong enough to support a pergola or patio cover if you want shade for your deck. If your cover is made from a heavy material, we can reinforce the decking to support 1,000 lbs. per tile.

Installing a tile deck is best left to the professionals. At Durante Home Exteriors, you can trust in our craftsmanship because our technicians are all highly trained and have years of experience. By partnering with us, you won’t have to worry about mistakes being made or corners being cut. Your new tile deck will be installed perfectly so you can enjoy it for years to come.