Your questions answered
We hope we’ve answered many of your composite decking questions below. For any further queries, please get in touch.

About our composite decking
Is black composite decking sustainable?
All Ecodeck composite decking is manufactured from 95% recycled and sustainably sourced materials. It’s also made in Britain, so you can feel confident in both the quality and eco-friendly credentials of your black composite decking boards.
How long does black composite decking last?
As long as it’s cared for correctly, black composite decking will last for years. Our Evolution, Heritage, and Signature AT black decking boards all come with 25-year warranties, while our Essentials collection has 10-year warranty.
Our team is on-hand with advice on how to keep your decking in tip-top condition, and we also encourage you to read our care and maintenance guides.
How many black decking boards do I need?
We wouldn’t want you to end up with too few or too many black decking boards. That’s why we’ve made a composite decking calculator, so you can work out how many boards you’ll need.
How much does black decking cost?
It all depends on the type of black decking board you choose and the size of your outdoor space! Use our composite decking calculator to get an estimate of the number of boards and fixings you’ll need. You can also speak about other decking requirements and specifications with one of our team.
Is composite decking slippery when wet?
Composite decking with enhanced non-slip properties isn’t as slippery when wet as traditional timber decking. However, care should be taken when moving about on any type of decking in wet conditions. It’s important to understand how to clean composite decking to ensure it’s in good condition, no matter the weather.
Where is high grip decking needed?
High grip decking is perfect for areas with high footfall and/or high slip potential. These include busy commercial sectors, like leisure and hospitality, or waterside applications, such as promenades and boardwalks.
Does composite decking have a good grip?
As standard, composite decking has a good level of grip. You can elevate the grip further by adding non-slip inserts, which feature anti-slip properties to deliver on safety. For more information on slip testing, please download the relevant technical data sheet.
How do you stop composite decking from being slippery?
Keeping your composite decking in good condition is key to reducing the surface’s slipperiness. While composite boards offer better grip than traditional timber boards, if they are exposed to the wet, they are prone to being more slippery than usual.
Regularly remove elements that make the deck slippery, such as standing water, ice, dirt or debris. For public areas where additional grip is needed, we recommend using high-grip, non-slip inserts that can be manufactured into your composite deck boards.
What composite decking board lengths are available?
3.6m is the standard composite decking board length. If your decking area is unusual in shape, size, or scale, you may need boards that are shorter or longer in length. We’re here to help and have the capabilities to manufacture composite boards of any length or size here in Britain.
Speak to us about your custom board needs!
Where can I get custom decking board sizes?
At Ecodek, we manufacture all our composite deck boards in Britain. So if you need custom deck board sizes or lengths, we can deliver. Our boards are manufactured to be 3.6m in length as standard, but if you need your boards to be 1m, 3m, or even 6m, we can produce this for you.
Get in touch with our team for all your custom decking board sizes.
What is the standard length of deck boards?
Most decking boards are 3.6m in length as standard. If you require composite decking boards that are shorter or longer than this, Ecodek can help. Please contact our team to learn more about the custom lengths we can manufacture our boards to.
How do I choose the right outdoor composite decking company?
There’s lots to consider when choosing the right outdoor composite decking for your client or your own home. Our team is here to help! We offer advice from deck design and installation through to ongoing care and maintenance support. Contact us for support with your composite decking project, including:
- Choosing a suitable board finish
- Decking calculations (number of boards, cost, etc)
- Selecting the perfect decking colour
- Ordering standard and bespoke board lengths
Which composite decking is best?
The best composite decking for your home project or commercial installation is based on several factors. These include how the decking will be used, the size of the decked area, and the overall aesthetic you’re after.
The Ecodek team is here to help you choose the right decking to meet your needs and provide a high-quality finish. Contact us to talk through your requirements and bring your decking design to life.
How much is composite decking?
The price of composite decking depends on several factors, including:
- Type and length of deck boards
- Size of the area needing decking
- Fixtures and fittings required (from joists and support beams to screws and clips)
Our composite decking calculator gives you an idea of the amount of decking you need, which you can use to get a better idea of the overall price.
Work out the cost: Composite decking calculator.
Are there any composite decking manufacturers based in the UK?
Ecodek is the only wood composite decking company that makes boards in Britain and supplies to specifiers, traders, installers, and homeowners across the UK.
Learn why we’re so proud to be the only maker of wood composite boards in Britain: Made in Britain.
Can composite decking be used inside?
Yes, composite decking can be used inside to create stylish flat or raised decking areas. Whether inside an arena for a concert, a stadium for a sporting celebration, or for a long-term commercial redevelopment, composite decking boards provide a durable decking solution.
For more information about how composite boards are used for indoor events, view event spaces.
How can I prevent debris falling between stadium decking?
One of the ways to help prevent debris from falling or getting stuck between deck boards is to choose boards with an angled edge. This reduces the gap between the boards, but still allows for essential air flow.
The deck boards in our Stadia collection are specially designed for stadiums, arenas, and other spaces that see high footfall and/or have the need to reduce debris falling between deck boards.
For all Stadia board technical details, please view our specifier resources:
What decking is suitable for stadiums?
All composite decking boards in our Stadia collection are suitable for stadiums. By design, we’ve ensured they offer strength and durability in heavy footfall applications (like stadiums), without compromising a stylish finish.
From Midnight Black for a modern edge to Pecan Browns that has the beauty of real timber decking, we’ve got the hard-wearing boards you’re looking for.
Order your free sample or contact us to find out more.
How do I clean wood-effect composite decking?
Wood-effect composite decking is very easy to clean.
As an overview:
- Use a brush to sweep debris off your decked area.
- Remove any debris that’s fallen into gaps between the boards.
- Mop the boards using an appropriate cleaning solution.
- Leave the solution to sit for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off using a hosepipe.
- Allow the deck to dry completely before placing furniture or decorations back onto it.
For full instructions on how to clean composite decking, read our article: How to clean composite decking.
Can you get composite decking that looks like timber?
You can buy composite decking with a timber-effect from Ecodek. Our Heritage collection of deck boards is designed to most realistically reflect the beauty of natural timber, without the high levels of maintenance of care that real wood boards come with.
Request a free sample of our Heritage composite boards.
What is wood composite?
When we talk about wood composite at Ecodek, we’re referring to our Heritage collection of woodgrain decking boards, our Signature AT and HD ribbed and grooved boards, and our Evolution capped boards.
All our wood composite deck boards are made by binding wood fibres with recycled plastic to produce a durable composite material that’s perfect for all manner of decking applications, from commercial settings to home gardens.
Wood composite boards have a finish that mimics natural wood, but without any of the drawbacks of being made from the real material. For instance, timber boards are more prone to splinters, rot, and warping. They also demand more cleaning and regular treatment, unlike a composite alternative.
Our article goes into more detail about the difference between the decking materials: Composite decking VS timber decking.
What’s a good alternative to wood decking?
If you’re after a wooden decking area but without the high care and maintenance commitments, woodgrain composite decking is the perfect alternative. The decking is easier to look after and keep in tip-top condition than traditional timber boards. Plus, it’s designed with longevity in mind, so you can feel confident that the wood-effect decked area will retain its natural, quality look for years to come.
For more details on wooden decking alternatives, our article has you covered: Types of wood decking alternatives.
Wood decking VS composite decking: What’s the difference?
The main difference between wooden decking and composite decking is the materials they’re made from. Wooden deck boards are manufactured from real wood, whereas composite boards from Ecodek are made from wood fibres and recycled plastic.
Other elements that differentiate wooden from composite decking include:
- Aesthetic: Real timber boards provide a natural look and there are some beautiful species of wood to choose from. However, there are also some very good wood-effect or woodgrain composite boards that mimic these finishes.
- Care: Composite decking is lower maintenance than wooden decking. There’s no sanding, sealing or painting needed, it just requires a quick brush down and clean with warm soapy water.
- Longevity: Wooden decking is more susceptible to damage from the elements (like rain) and general wear and tear. Timber boards are more prone to rotting and splintering, though with the right care and maintenance, you can enhance their lifespan. On the other hand, composite decking is designed with durability and practicality in mind. Ecodek’s composite boards are made from wood fibres and recycled plastic, which produce a surface that has higher resistance to both degradation and wear and tear.
For more information about the difference between timber and composite boards, read our article: Composite decking VS timber decking.
Which boards are best for commercial decking?
The best board for your commercial decking project depends on the application.
- Heavy duty composite boards are suited to decked areas that are prone to high levels of footfall.
- Ribbed or grooved boards are ideal for achieving a stylish yet practical commercial decked area. For instance, a contemporary seating area for a bar or restaurant.
- Aluminium decking is perfect for high-rise balconies, walkways, and terraces. These fire-rated deck boards are non-combustible and a stylish, yet practical choice.
Contact us for more advice about choosing the right decking material for your commercial project – we’re here to help.
What’s the difference between standard and heavy duty deck boards?
Standard composite deck boards are suitable for most commercial and domestic applications. They are made from wood fibres and recycled plastic, offering high levels of durability, practicality, and quality. Ecodek composite boards have a solid core, making them a reliable choice for most decking projects.
Heavy-duty composite deck boards are made in the same way but have a deeper profile. This provides the strength needed to withstand high levels of foot traffic, making them ideal for demanding commercial spaces.
Learn more about using heavy duty composite decking for commercial applications: Composite VS timber decking for commercial projects.
Who needs heavy duty decking?
Any decked area that has consistent, high footfall should take advantage of heavy duty boards. For example, seating areas at shopping centres, hospitality spaces with outdoor terraces, or event spaces that host hundreds of people.
For support specifying the right heavy duty decking for your client or installation, speak to our experts: Contact us.
What is heavy duty composite decking?
Heavy duty composite decking is ideal for applications that see high volumes of footfall. With a deeper profile than standard composite boards, heavy duty decking offers a durable, practical solution for commercial spaces.
Ecodek’s heavy duty composite decking range, Signature HD, is manufactured here in Britain. The decking is available in different board lengths, so you can design a decked area which offers both style and substance.
See how the boards have been used at Deansgate Locks and order a free sample today.
Which applications is grooved composite decking best for?
Grooved composite decking is suitable for a range of applications, from contemporary hospitality spaces to home improvements.
Get a quote or order free samples of our ribbed and grooved composite decking boards today.
Where can I buy ribbed decking?
Ribbed decking can be bought via a decking manufacturer or supplier.
For sustainable ribbed decking boards made in Britain, Ecodek has you covered. Get a quote or request free samples of our ribbed boards to get your decking project underway.
How is grooved decking fixed?
Our grooved decking is fixed with specialist screws.
To fit the grooved and ribbed boards in our Signature AT collection, you need composite decking screws. To minimise the appearance of the screws and give a seamless finish, we’ve colour-matched their heads to the colours the boards are available in.
View all composite screws or learn more about which screws you need to fit composite decking.
Why choose grooved decking?
Grooved decking, with its linear appearance, helps transform a decked area into a stunning, contemporary space. When grooved boards are used alongside smooth composite boards, the resulting pattern enhances the aesthetic of the decked area.
Learn more about composite decking patterns and request your free sample of ribbed and grooved deck boards today.
What is the difference between ribbed and grooved decking?
Ecodek’s Signature AT range offers both a ribbed and grooved finish to the deck boards as they are dual-sided. They have a wider grooved effect on one side and a narrower ribbed surface on the other. The composite boards are versatile and able to provide a stylish, practical finish for a variety of applications.
What is ribbed composite decking?
Ribbed composite decking is a deck board that has a ribbed texture. The ribbed nature gives the decking a modern finish while helping to disguise or hide screw fixings.
If you’re after decking with a clean finish, look no further than a ribbed or grooved board. Order a free sample to see if ribbed deck boards are right for your decking project.
Why choose composite decking?
Composite decking is a popular choice for outdoor domestic and commercial spaces. It’s an ideal alternative to timber decking as it does not rot, warp or splinter and is long-lasting with warranties of up to 25 years. It’s easy to maintain and, unlike wood, requires no regular staining or treatment – a simple wash down every now and then, keeps it in top condition.
Are any of your decking boards non-combustible?
Yes – our Adek aluminium decking system is non-combustible and holds a fire rating of A2fl-s1 and A2-s1, d0.
Can you use Ecodek composite decking for a load bearing application?
Despite having a high load bearing structural ability (visit our technical information pages), we do not recommend using our composite decking in structural applications. We would recommend consulting a structural engineer to design any load bearing structures.
Which board lengths does composite decking come in?
All Ecodeck boards come in a standard length of 3.6m, but because we manufacture in the UK, we can also offer bespoke lengths (often at no extra charge).
Whatever length you need your composite deck board to be (between 1.5 and 6m), we can manufacture it for you here in the UK, so you can get the best fit for your project.
For custom projects our manufacturing facility can cater for up to 9 metre lengths (with a small surcharge).
Find out more about our standard and bespoke deck board lengths.
Does composite decking get hot?
As with all outdoor flooring products, composite decking can get hot in direct sunlight. This happens mostly with darker colours as they retain heat for longer. Only in the most extreme UK conditions will the deck be too hot to walk on barefoot.
Is composite decking slippery?
Composite decking is much less slippery than timber decking and our decking has one of the highest slip resistance ratings for the ‘low potential for slip’ requirement, as set by the HSE.
As with the majority of flooring products, our deck boards will lose some slip resistance when wet. You can find slip test data on our composite decking collections in our technical information hub.
For commercial spaces that require additional slip resistance, choose our non-slip decking board inserts. These inserts add additional grip and peace of mind, as well as style and sustainability. Learn more about our non-slip boards: Non-slip composite decking.
How long does composite decking last?
Composite decking is built to last. Unlike timber decking, you don’t need to treat composite boards to keep them in good condition. A simple sweep and rinse is all it takes to clean composite decking, which doesn’t rot, warp, or splinter.
At Ecodek we only manufacture solid composite decking (although we do offer high quality hollow PVC boards). Solid composite decking will last longer than hollow boards. Solid composite boards are extremely strong and do not rot. This means they have a long life span and carry longer warranties (Ecodek collections are 25 years, apart from Essentials which is 10 years) providing you with the peace of mind that you’ve purchased a superior product.
For decking in high footfall areas, like promenades or restaurants, it’s wise to choose boards that have been specially designed for commercial use. Take a look at our range of heavy duty composite decking or Stadia collection to learn more.
And for more details on the lifespan of composite decking, read our blog: How long does composite decking last?
Does composite decking fade over time?
Our Heritage, Signature AT and HD, Essentials and Stadia collections are uncapped boards, made from hardwood fibres in order to minimise natural UV fading. There will still be some fade visible during the first few months of installation, giving a more textured appearance. This is a standard process known as ‘weathering’.
Any initial colour difference between boards is due to the natural colour variance in the wood fibres and, once weathered, the boards will all be a similar colour tone.
Our capped collection, Evolution, has a protective outer layer – EcoTech® – meaning it is far less likely to fade when exposed to UV.
Why choose solid composite decking over hollow?
Although hollow composite deck boards are cheaper to buy in the short term, they’re simply not as durable (as they have far less material in them), meaning that you’ll probably have to replace your decking sooner than expected. All of our solid composite boards come with a minimum of 25-year guarantee (10 years for Essentials).
What is composite decking made from?
Composite decking is made from approximately 60% sustainably-sourced wood flour and 35% recycled HDPE polymer (recycled plastic milk bottles). These materials are heated together with bonding agents, formed into boards and then cooled. The result is a high-quality, long-lasting composite board.
Capped composite decking
Can you paint capped composite decking?
We don’t recommend painting capped composite decking because it risks damaging the finish on the boards and overall aesthetic of your decked area. If you’ve got a colour scheme in mind for your decking, the best thing to do is choose boards with complementary hues.
Ecodek’s Evolution capped decking is available in eight different shades, from Ice Grey and Cool Sands, for a modern look, to Hazelnut Brown and Smokey Grey, for a more traditional finish.
We know choosing the right composite deck colour can be tricky, so we’ve pulled together some advice to help you get started: How to choose your perfect composite decking colour.
You can also order free samples of all our composite decking board colours and finishes to share with your client or try at home.
What’s the difference between capped and uncapped composite decking?
Capped decking has an additional layer, which gives the composite boards extra protection for a longer-lasting finish.
Uncapped composite boards don’t have this protective layer, but they are still a strong and durable choice for most decking applications.
Understand the difference between the boards by reading our article: The difference between capped and uncapped decking.
How do you know if composite decking is capped?
You can usually tell if composite decking is capped by simply looking at the boards. If the top and sides look like they’re wrapped in a protective sleeve, it’s likely the boards are capped. The top and sides will also often appear shinier, smoother, and less porous than the core.
To understand if your decking is capped or uncapped, speak to a composite decking specialist, like our team at Ecodek: Contact us.
What is capped composite decking?
Capped composite decking boards have a tough, protective outer layer, making them low maintenance, improving stain and fade resistance, and enhancing their durability.
At Ecodek, our Evolution collection incorporates EcoTech®, an advanced layer of protection for exceptional stain and colour fade resistance. It also means the boards are an easy-to-clean, low maintenance option.
What is the advantage of a capped composite board?
The three-sided capping found on our Evolution boards allows an enhanced woodgrain finish to be achieved. It also means the boards are stain and fade resistant. Read more about the difference between capped and uncapped composite decking.
Does capped composite decking fade over time?
Our capped decking collection – Evolution- has a protective outer layer, meaning it is far less likely to fade when exposed to UV.
Sub-structure
What material is recommended for a composite decking sub-structure?
The cheapest substructure option for composite decking is treated softwood. However, a softwood substructure will attract damp, and with water ingress over time, it will rot.
Our recommendation is to use a composite subframe using composite joists or support beams and heavy duty posts or pedestals. Composite wood will resist water ingress and damp in areas with low air circulation, meaning it will be much more durable and stay rot-free for much longer than timber.
Read our post What base do I need for composite decking for more information.
Installation
How do I install decking?
How you install your decking will depend on the type of board you have chosen, the sub frame and the required fixings e.g clips or screws. Please download our installation guides or watch our videos where you will find full installation instructions. If you have any further questions, please get in touch with our team of decking specialists.
How easy is it to fit composite decking?
Composite decking is relatively easy to install, if you’ve done your homework! Start by measuring your space, planning your design and researching your required materials. Remember to think about your composite base frame as well as your top decking! For more installation guidance, please download our installation guides or watch our videos.
How do I cut composite decking?
This decking can be cut using common tools, such as a handsaw. However, for an easier installation, we suggest using a mitre or circular saw which is a lot quicker. Here’s our Guide to cutting composite decking for more information.
Do you need specialist tools to install Ecodek composite decking?
No specialist equipment is needed to install our decking, you can even saw it by hand. Generally a standard chop saw with a multipurpose Tungsten Carbide Tip would be preferred by installers. Read our Guide to DIY composite decking for more information or download our installation instructions.
Can I have a picture frame finish for the edge of my decking?
Yes. Heritage, Signature AT and HD and Essentials boards can be used for this purpose. For Evolution you will need to utilise square edge boards and face fixings to achieve the best end result. Read our post on How to picture frame composite decking for more information.
Can you screw Ecodek composite decking like you can with wood?
We have a range of screws specifically designed for installing our composite decking. These come in a range of colours to match the colour of your boards for a seamless finish. Read our Complete guide to composite decking screws and clips for more information.
How do I install composite decking?
How you install your composite decking will depend on the type of board you have chosen, the sub frame and the required fixings e.g clips or screws. Please download our installation guides or watch our videos where you will find full installation instructions. If you have any further questions, please get in touch with our team of decking specialists.
Cleaning & maintenance
Can I put furniture on my composite decking?
All items regularly left on the decking can impact on the weathering of the boards. We recommend that all items of furniture are regularly moved to allow for more evenly distributed weathering.
Can I put flower pots and plants on my composite decking?
Flower and plant pots can create potential problems with staining when sitting directly on the deck. Minerals from the soil and fertilizer can end up leaving a white discoloration on the deck. We recommend using plant stands to enable air flow underneath.
How do I remove snow and ice from composite decking?
If your decking is covered in ice or snow, scatter sodium chloride (table salt) over the surface to melt it. Do not scrape the surface of your decking with a shovel.
How do I remove mould & fungus from composite decking?
If you see dark spots on the surface of your decking, it may be mould or fungus. It’s very important you clean your boards with an anti-mould solution to prevent any lasting damage.
Please read our mould and fungus removal guide for more information.
How do I remove stains from composite decking?
Your decking can be easily cleaned with a hose, soft brush or sponge and some decking cleaner.
If you discover any difficult-to-remove stains, please contact us for advice. Please do not use a jet wash or harsh chemicals as they may cause damage to the surface.
Can you paint or stain Ecodek composite decking?
The beauty of installing composite decking is that it’s extremely easy to maintain. Both our capped and uncapped composite decking collections do not require painting or staining to protect them.
Although our boards will adhere to oil based or epoxy based paints and stains, we’d advise against altering the natural beauty of the board.
How easy is composite decking to clean?
After your composite decking has been installed, there’s likely to be some pencil marks. These can easily be removed with a normal pencil eraser.
For ongoing maintenance, the simplest way to clean your new deck is to use a hosepipe and a soft brush or sponge. For more stubborn stains you may want to use a deck cleaning solution. Do not use any abrasive materials, such as a scourer, jet wash or stiff brush as this will leave marks on the deck. See our Care and Maintenance guide for further details.
How do you repair composite decking if it gets damaged?
All of our collections are extremely robust and difficult to damage under normal circumstances. Please read our Care and Maintenance guide on how to keep your decking in the best condition possible.
If your boards do get damaged, please get in contact with our team and they’ll advise on the best course of action.
Your decking purchase
Can I return my order?
If you’re a consumer customer you’re able to return orders within 14 days of receipt and will be fully refunded. Orders returned between 15 and 30 days of receipt will be subject to a 20% handling charge to cover re-stocking costs.
Please contact our team to discuss your query and to arrange for a collection.
What do I do if there are items missing from my order?
If there are items missing from your order please contact us with your order number and your details and we’ll rectify any errors as soon as possible.
How much decking do I need to order?
Firstly make sure you accurately measure the outdoor area to be decked. Using these figures and our decking calculator, you can estimate the amount of decking you need. Don’t forget to add 5% wastage to be sure you have enough for the job!
For an accurate quotation please contact our team and they’ll work out deck boards, fascia, fixings and, if required, your sub-structure requirements.
How do I report damages?
If in the unlikely event that your products arrive damaged, please contact us within 48 hours of receiving your goods, explaining what the issue is and providing photographs where applicable.
I have special delivery requirements, can you help?
Please discuss any special delivery requirements with our team before placing your order.
What is the delivery cost?
Delivery costs will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your order and the delivery location. We always strive to provide the best delivery rates possible and they will be itemised as part of your quote. For more details please contact us on 01978 667840 or email enquiries@ecodek.co.uk
How will my order arrive?
Your delivery will be made by either Ecodek employees or a third party carrier.
The decking will be wrapped in protective film and, depending on quantities, it could be on a wooden pallet.
We highly recommend that you have two people available to unload the delivery. The delivery driver will not be able to assist with unloading.
Please note that you will have to dispose of the pallet and protective wrapping as these items are part of your order.
If I place a top up order will my boards be the same colour?
Colours of our uncapped decking collections (Heritage, Signature At / HD, Essentials and Stadia) can vary from batch to batch. We therefore recommend that you add 5% wastage to each order to ensure that you have enough to complete your project.
How quickly can you deliver?
Because we manufacture in the UK and hold good stocks of our collections, we can deliver standard board lengths in as little as 3-5 working days. Delivery timescales will vary depending on the volume required and product choice. Please get in touch for accurate dates for your particular project.
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Looking to learn more about composite decking – it’s benefits, how to install it, maintain it and more? Visit our blog for the lowdown.