Composite decking is an increasingly popular option for building decks, and for good reason. Made from a combination of wood fibers and recycled plastic, composite decking is highly durable and resistant to weathering, fading, and stains. Unlike traditional wood decking, composite decking doesn't require sanding, staining, or sealing, and can be easily cleaned with soap and water. Additionally, composite decking is often made from recycled materials, making it a more eco-friendly choice than traditional wood decking.

When building a deck with composite decking, it's important to use special composite decking fasteners that are designed to work with the material. Hidden fasteners, face fasteners, clips, and screws are all commonly used with composite decking. Hidden fasteners are designed to be installed between the deck boards, leaving no visible screws or nails. Face fasteners, on the other hand, are installed through the face of the deck boards and are visible. Clips can be used with hidden fasteners to secure the deck boards in place, while screws are designed specifically for use with composite decking and are available in a range of colors to match the deck boards. When choosing composite decking fasteners, be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific type of decking you're using.

While composite decking has many benefits, it's important to consider some potential drawbacks as well. For example, composite decking can retain heat, making it uncomfortable to walk on during hot summer days. Additionally, composite decking can become slippery when wet, so it may not be the best choice for areas that receive a lot of rain or snow. Over time, composite decking can also fade in color due to exposure to sunlight and weather conditions. Finally, composite decking is often more expensive than traditional wood decking, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.

To add a polished look to your composite decking, you can install a picture frame border using composite decking boards and fasteners. A picture frame border is a decorative border that surrounds the perimeter of your deck, giving it a polished look. To install a picture frame border, you'll first need to install the main deck boards as you normally would, leaving a gap between the boards to allow for expansion and contraction. Next, measure and cut the boards for the border, making sure they fit tightly against the main deck boards. Install the border boards using composite decking fasteners, making sure they're level and flush with the main deck boards. Finally, install a second row of border boards on top of the first row, positioning them so they overlap the gaps between the main deck boards. Finish the border with a trim board, which will cover the exposed ends of the border boards. By following these guidelines, you can create a beautiful and long-lasting composite decking that requires minimal maintenance and adds value to your home.