What is different about building with composite
Most manufacturers call for joists at sixteen inches on center for straight decking and twelve for diagonal patterns or commercial loads. Stair treads need even closer support. Boards grow and shrink along their length as temperature swings, so end gaps are set by the temperature on installation day. Dark colors get noticeably hot in full sun, which matters for bare feet and dogs on a south or west exposure. We talk through color and cap type with samples left in your yard for an afternoon.
Capped composite versus PVC
Capped composite has a wood-and-plastic core wrapped in a polymer shell. It is the volume product and performs well. Cellular PVC has no wood content, is lighter, stays somewhat cooler and resists moisture best, which suits ground-level decks and pool surrounds. Both come in good, better and best lines that differ in cap thickness, embossing realism and warranty length. We install the major brands and have no incentive to push one.
Finishing details
The details are what make composite look finished: a picture-frame border that hides cut ends, a breaker board down the middle of long decks instead of random butt joints, fascia boards that match, hidden clips instead of face screws, and color-matched plugs where screws are unavoidable. Aluminum or composite railing with a drink rail cap completes it. Low-voltage lights in stair risers and post caps are easy to add while we are building.
How the work runs
- Frame evaluation or designNew build gets a full design. For a resurface, we inspect footings, ledger, joists and spacing.
- Material and color selectionSamples on site in real light.
- Frame workBuild new or add joists, blocking and tape to the existing frame.
- Decking and railBorder, field boards, fascia, stairs, railing and lighting.
What moves the price
We do not publish square-foot prices, because they mislead more than they help. These are the factors that actually change the number on a proposal.
- Product line. Entry capped composite to premium PVC is a wide spread.
- New frame versus resurfacing a sound existing frame.
- Railing system and linear footage.
- Pattern complexity: borders, inlays, diagonal or herringbone layouts.
From our recent projects
Photographs from jobs we have built. Each one opens to the full project, including the framing and rough-in stages when we have them.
How long it takes
One to three weeks. Special-order colors can add lead time in peak season.
Permits
New decks need permits. Re-decking an existing frame may not, but replacing railings or stairs often triggers one. We check. See our guide to which projects need a permit.
Composite & PVC Decks questions
Does composite get too hot?
Dark colors in direct afternoon sun do. Lighter colors and PVC lines run cooler. Shade from a pergola or umbrella helps more than product choice.
Will it fade or stain?
Current capped products carry fade and stain warranties of twenty-five years or longer. Grease should still be cleaned promptly.
Can composite go on my old deck frame?
If the frame is structurally sound and we can add joists to meet spacing. Putting a thirty-year surface on a frame with ten years left is a poor bargain, and we will say so.