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Composite Decking Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs2022-07-29T07:16:09+01:00
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GENERAL

What is composite decking?2020-09-03T13:28:31+01:00

Wood plastic composite decking is a blend of recycled wood and plastic that would have otherwise ended up in landfill. Today’s composite decking offers exceptional durability, resilience and performance that you can’t get from pure wood. It doesn’t split, chip, warp or rot – perfect for withstanding the elements! Kind to bare feet, it won’t splinter and is slip resistant unlike wet wood. Already popular with homeowners, restaurants, hotels and leisure centres who choose it as a sustainable solution for decking projects.

What is the difference between composite decking and wood?2020-09-03T13:29:44+01:00

The high quality composite decking boards that we offer combine the natural appearance and aesthetic appeal of wood with the durability and resilience of plastic. Wood requires continuous maintenance, is exposed to and affected by weather and environmental conditions. Composite decking on the other hand is more robust and offers excellent traction, won’t splinter or warp and doesn’t need sealing or repainting.

Why is composite decking more expensive than treated wood?2020-01-07T17:37:38+00:00

Composite decking may be more expensive to manufacture, but it’s a more sustainable solution in the mid to long term. Investing in this material means that you’ll be spared costs associated with the maintenance, repair and replacement of wood decking which is more susceptible to perish, rot, split and warp – so in the long run, you’ll be saving money.

How long will NeoTimber decking last?2020-09-03T13:31:06+01:00

Composite decking is by nature strong and durable. You can expect it to last for many years with minimal upkeep. All NeoTimber products come with a 25-Year Limited Warranty for residential applications and 10-years for commercial applications.

Is NeoTimber decking suitable for use in commercial and residential settings?2020-09-03T13:32:37+01:00

NeoTimber composite decking is fit for both residential and commercial use. We have been a leading manufacturer of composite decking for over 10 years, supplying private homes and businesses with excellent quality solutions. We have come to understand that some products are better suited to certain environments over others. To help decide which product may be best for your upcoming decking project, please contact a member of our dedicated sales team on 01509 323 170.

What is the difference between your traditional and capped composite decking ranges?2020-09-03T13:36:44+01:00

Our traditional composite deck boards (Essential & Classic Ranges) are made from a single mould of wood and plastic composite material – making them a long-life alternative to timber decking. Our new generation of decking is our capped composite decking (Advanced & Deluxe Ranges), which is a traditional composite material with a tough polymer shell applied to its exterior. This encapsulates the product and provides a defensive barrier to offer improved performance against the elements. This product has all the great features of traditional composite decking, with the added benefits of improved stain, mould and fade resistance.

How are NeoTimber goods delivered?2020-01-07T17:47:33+00:00

The majority of orders are delivered on a long wheel based van by a member of our dedicated NeoTimber delivery team. For larger deliveries, we tend to select a more suitable heavy goods vehicle with a higher weight capacity. Our logistics team always contact customers ahead of delivery to run through the in’s and out’s and we will never just turn up unannounced!

PRICING & PURCHASING

Can I collect goods from your warehouse?2023-11-16T10:05:08+00:00

While we do offer a UK nationwide delivery service, we also offer the option of a pickup from our Coalville based warehouse. Our collection times are 09:00-15:00, Monday-Friday. Simply opt for the ‘Local Pickup’ option on the check-out of our online store, or contact a member of our dedicated sales team on 01509 323 170.

What is the delivery time for my order?2020-09-03T13:39:18+01:00

We stock our entire product range, so your lead time is governed by the delivery option you choose: either a 3-5 working day window on our “Express Delivery Service”, or a 7-10 working day window on our “Economy Delivery Service”.

Where can I purchase NeoTimber products?2020-09-03T13:40:41+01:00

When buying NeoTimber items, you deal with NeoTimber directly: either buy online or contact a member of our knowledgeable sales team on 01509 323 170. By self-distributing our products, we have much better control over the experience that our customers receive.

Do you have a showroom we can visit and if so – where is it?2020-09-03T13:42:11+01:00

We do have a composite decking showroom based in Loughborough, Leicestershire, UK. Customers are welcome to visit from Monday-Friday, our opening times are between 09:00-17:30. Call us on 01509 323 170 to arrange an appointment.

How much does NeoTimber decking cost?2020-09-03T13:43:35+01:00

As with many things in life, you get what you pay for. Initially, composite decking does cost more board-for-board when compared with traditional wooden decking, however – the payoff you get over time in decreased maintenance costs and increased leisure time provides compelling value. For up-to-date product prices, please check out our online store.

INSTALLATION

Do I have to use NeoTimber subframe solutions with my NeoTimber composite deck boards?2020-09-03T13:44:53+01:00

Although we recommend using our subframe options in conjunction with our boards, it is not a necessity. Customers can also opt for a timber, plastic or steel subframe and as long as the principles outlined in our installation guide are followed, our warranty terms will still apply.

How do you fix NeoTimber trims?2020-09-03T14:41:43+01:00

The primary fixing method for our trims is screwing. The trims can be screwed to either the boards or to the supporting framework of your decking area. It is advised that you pre-drill and countersink the trims prior to screwing them in order to avoid cracking the composite material. A screw with a similar coloured head is advised for a more discrete finish and we recommend our NeoTimber coloured trim screws. An adhesive can also be used as a secondary fixing solution. See the fixing our composite edging section of our installation guide for more assistance on best practices.

Can composite deck boards be cut/sawn like traditional wood?2020-09-03T13:50:06+01:00

Yes – composite decking can be cut, drilled, and fastened just like traditional wood. You can make simple cross cuts in composite decking the same way you would cut any soft pine – a power circular saw will work fine. A power miter saw can provide very accurate, straight cuts, and a table saw with support extensions can make all types of cutting easier. Check out our cutting composite decking how-to video for more information.

Can NeoTimber deck boards be placed over a solid surface?2020-09-03T14:32:53+01:00

NeoTimber decking can only be installed over a solid surface when using a joist network and we recommend using our composite joists which have been designed specifically for this purpose. Please see our installation guide for more information and how to install using our concealed FastClip system. Using our composite subframe solution, while recommended, is not a necessary requirement and it is possible to install our boards onto alternative subframe materials, such as timber or metal.

Can NeoTimber deck boards be glued?2020-09-03T14:30:55+01:00

Glue cannot be used as a primary fastener. Please see our online installation guide for more information and how to install using our recommended concealed FastClip system.

Can I use a non-recommended fastener to install NeoTimber decking?2020-09-03T14:30:08+01:00

NeoTimber does not endorse the use of any non-recommended fasteners. If any condition occurs which is attributable to the use of a non-recommended fasteners, such conditions would not be covered under the NeoTimber Limited Warranty. Please see our online installation guide for more information and how to install using our recommended concealed FastClip system.

TECHNICAL

Are NeoTimber deck boards reversible?2020-09-03T14:28:48+01:00

Every one of our composite deck boards comes with a fully reversible finish. This allows you to choose between an embossed, textured woodgrain finish and a sleek grooved finish.

Does NeoTimber composite material expand and contract?2020-09-03T14:27:40+01:00

Like all wood-plastic composite materials, our decking will expand and contract in varying temperatures. The rate of expansion and contraction is dictated by the outside environment – primarily the temperature. This must be taken into account ahead of installation as this has a bearing on the “end-to-end” spacing required between boards. For more information on this aspect, please consult the elements to consider section of the online installation guide.

Are NeoTimber deck boards resistant to staining?2020-09-03T14:37:03+01:00

Our traditional composite deck boards (Essential & Classic Ranges) are composed of wood fibres and recycled plastic and is uncapped, meaning it is not fully resistant to spot stains. If spillage or stain occurs, we recommend acting immediately – treating the affected area and following the steps in our care guide. Our capped composite deck boards (Advanced & Deluxe Ranges) are wrapped in a polymer shell that forms a protective barrier around the core of the product. This provides excellent stain resistance and an easy-clean surface.

Are NeoTimber composite deck boards non-slip?2020-09-03T14:22:28+01:00

NeoTimber deck boards are engineered with safety in mind and we consistently try to better the slip-resistance of our composite products. The slip resistance of NeoTimber deck boards varies depending on the decking type and material finish that you opt for. For more information, please contact a member our dedicated sales team on 01509 323 170.

What standards does your composite decking meet?2020-09-03T14:44:29+01:00

We are proud that our products comply with CE, ISO-9001, ISO-14001, REACH, Intertek Green Leaf Mark and WWF LCMP Silver standards. This means that all materials are sourced from responsible producers and that our products are manufactured to the highest possible quality.

What materials are used to manufacture NeoTimber composite decking?2020-09-10T08:52:38+01:00

NeoTimber decking is made from 95% recycled materials, including reclaimed wood and sawdust as well as recycled plastic. The exact material composition is 60% wood powder, 30% recycled HDPE and 10% chemical additives.

How heavy is NeoTimber composite decking when compared with wood?2020-09-03T14:18:56+01:00

NeoTimber composite decking boards are typically between 50-70% heavier than comparable lumber sections.

Will NeoTimber products change colour or fade when installed outdoors?2020-09-03T14:18:05+01:00

All of our composite decking solutions are more fade-resistant than traditional wooden decking. However, how well your deck endures mother nature depends upon what type of NeoTimber decking you have. Our Essential and Classic traditional composite decking will lighten-up in colour-tone, achieving their weathered colour after a period of up to 6 months. The level of fade hereafter will be minimal once the boards have reached this colour tone. Our Advanced and Deluxe capped composite decking has protective shell technology which provides far superior fade and stain resistance, and in turn will not fade whatsoever.

Does NeoTimber composite decking get hotter than wooden decking when under the sun?2020-09-03T14:15:02+01:00

In extensive studies, it has been found that the colour of the decking board, regardless if it’s made of wood-plastic composite or wood is the most significant factor in the heat retention of the board. Naturally, the darker colour tones will warm up quicker than our lighter coloured boards. In these studies, pressure-treated wood stained the same colour was hotter in the same test conditions.

AFTER CARE

How do I clean/maintain NeoTimber composite decking?2020-09-03T14:47:05+01:00

Our entire range of composite materials are very easy to maintain. A routine clean consists of using soap, warm water and a soft-bristled brush and for a deeper clean, a jet wash can be used on your deck. We find that a twice-yearly clean is usually enough to keep your decking project looking excellent throughout the year. The weather-resistant nature of our products means that you shall never need to paint, stain or seal the boards. For more information on cleaning and care tips, please visit our care guide.

Can I use a pressure washer on my NeoTimber composite decking?2020-09-03T13:56:23+01:00

While our composite deck boards are low-maintenance, we recommend a general clean every 3-6 months to ensure your boards continue to look excellent all year round. Using a pressure washer (maximum 3100 psi) is an effective way of cleaning any surface dirt and debris from the deck boards. Using a fan attachment on the pressure washer and applying the spray a minimum of 300mm from the surface of the boards will ensure this process doesn’t damage the boards.

Can I paint or stain my NeoTimber deck boards?2020-09-03T13:54:44+01:00

We strongly advise that customers avoid painting or staining any NeoTimber composite products. Our products are designed to be a low-maintenance alternative to timber decking and traditional staining or painting solutions that are usually used on traditional timber decking will not bond with our products. The colour consistency of our boards is such that it will stay largely consistent throughout their lifespan.

Can NeoTimber deck boards be sanded?2020-09-03T13:53:16+01:00

We do not advise that you sand our capped composite deck boards (Advanced & Deluxe Ranges). The protective polymer shell of the product will be damaged beyond repair if you are to do so and you shall void the product’s warranty. We do however recommend lightly sanding our traditional composite decking (Essential & Classic Ranges) in order to remove stubborn, deep-set stains. Apply a 60-grit sandpaper to the direction of the grain of the board, lightly applying pressure in the affected area. As a result of the sanding, the affected area will initially appear a lighter colour tone. Rest assured this will blend-in with the colouration of the board over time as the board is exposed to UV rays.

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support or assistance then please give one of our friendly experts a call and we’ll be happy to help.

Just give us a call on 01509 323 170.