Framing A Composite Deck: What To Plan For

a patio with a fireplace and furniture


Framing a composite deck is an essential aspect of deck construction, especially in Santa Rosa where homeowners value both style and durability. Sightline Builders, as experienced deck contractors Santa Rosa, can expertly handle this task. Here’s what you need to plan for when framing a composite deck:

Key Considerations for Framing Composite Decks:

1. Choice of Decking Material: As a Trex Pro Contractor, we specialize in using Trex composite decking for our projects. Trex decking, renowned for its durability, aesthetic appeal, and environmental friendliness, is an excellent choice for homeowners. This type of decking successfully emulates the look of wood but avoids common issues like warping and fading. Its advanced engineering offers unmatched durability and moisture resistance, making Trex deck boards a long-lasting and environmentally friendly option.

2. Deck Fastening Methods: The two primary methods for attaching composite decking to the deck’s substructure are surface fastening and hidden deck fastener systems. While surface fastening is common and involves using screws, it may not provide a uniformly clean appearance and can potentially lead to issues if screws are not installed correctly. Hidden fastener systems offer a smooth surface but may complicate the replacement of damaged boards.

3. Framing Material: Considering the longevity of composite decking, a durable framing material is crucial. Steel is recommended for its durability, stability, and resistance to environmental factors, ensuring a long-lasting deck structure.

4. Spacing and Installation of Joists: When planning the substructure, it’s important to ensure proper joist spacing. Typically, deck joists are centered 16 inches apart for low-maintenance decking. If installing the decking at an angle, such as 45 degrees, closer joist spacing may be required.

5. Managing Heat and Static Electricity: It’s essential to be aware of issues like heat build-up, especially near heat sources or reflective windows, and the potential for static electricity, which is a common phenomenon in plastic-based products like composite decking.

6. Aesthetic and Functional Finishing Touches: Consider the use of fascia boards to give your deck a finished look. These boards cover the rim joists and can be applied flush with the deck surface or just below it. This step provides a sleek, seamless finish to the deck.

7. Railing and Post Installation: Railing connectors simplify the attachment of rails to composite deck posts. Stair railings can be particularly tricky, so using preassembled railing systems can make installation easier.

8. Design and Color Variation: Don’t hesitate to mix and match different types of materials and colors. Composite posts with aluminum rails or different colors for posts, rails, and spindles can add a unique touch to your deck.

Final Thoughts:

For homeowners in Santa Rosa looking to build or remodel their deck with high-quality, durable materials, Sightline Builders, a Trex Pro Contractor, is an ideal choice. Our expertise as a Trex Pro Contractor ensures that we provide not only aesthetically pleasing designs but also functional and long-lasting decks using Trex’s industry-leading composite decking materials. Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction makes us a trusted partner in bringing your deck vision to life. For expert guidance and craftsmanship in your deck project, contact Sightline Builders at 707-892-0671.