Composite decking has become one of the most sought-after outdoor flooring solutions, thanks to its durability, low maintenance and modern appearance, and is now widely used across a variety of residential and commercial spaces such as terraces, balconies, gardens, pool areas and outdoor dining areas.
Despite its growing popularity, many questions about this material remain.
In this article we have compiled answers to the 10 most frequently asked questions about composite decking:
- What is composite decking?
- Is all composite decking the same?
- Does composite decking get hot in the sun?
- Is composite decking anti-slip?
- How long does composite decking last?
- Composite decking or timber decking?
- Can composite decking be installed directly on soil?
- Does composite decking change colour over time?
- How do you clean and maintain composite decking?
- What is the price of composite decking per square metre?
1. What is composite decking?
CDECK composite decking is a construction material for outdoor flooring, used on terraces, balconies, gardens, walkways, pool areas and outdoor dining areas.
It combines wood fibres with polymers (plastics), with the aim of replicating the aesthetic of natural timber, with greater durability and lower maintenance requirements.
CDECK is manufactured in Portugal and is available in two distinct solutions:
- CDECK Original® – uniform aesthetics and proven durability.
- CDECK WUUDE® – a more natural-looking finish, with a resistant polymer coating.
2. Is all composite decking the same?
No. Not all composite decking is the same.
Although all products are referred to as “composite decking”, there are significant differences between the various products available on the market.
These differences stem primarily from the materials used, the ratio of wood fibres to polymers, and the manufacturing processes. As a result, composite decking products can behave very differently in terms of strength, stability, durability and maintenance.
3. Does composite decking get hot in the sun?
Yes. Like any other material, composite decking heats up when exposed to solar radiation.
The level of heat build-up can vary depending on several factors, including:
- the colour of the boards, as darker colours tend to heat up more than lighter ones;
- the type of board used, as hollow boards tend to heat up slightly less than solid boards due to internal ventilation.
Compared to timber decking, and considering similar colours, CDECK composite decking may heat up slightly more, although the difference is not very significant.
4. Is composite decking anti-slip?
Yes. CDECK composite decking has a slip resistance rating of Class 3 (EN 15534) — the class required for outdoor flooring in areas that may be wet.
It is also free from knots and splinters, which contributes to greater comfort and safety underfoot, even when walking barefoot.
5. How long does composite decking last?
CDECK composite decking has an expected lifespan of over 30 years and a warranty of up to 25 years.
The durability of composite decking depends on several factors, such as the quality of the materials, the installation system and the conditions of use. However, CDECK has been developed for outdoor use, ensuring high resistance over time across different weather conditions and levels of use.
6. Composite decking or timber decking?
Both composite decking and timber decking are widely used outdoor flooring solutions, with important differences in terms of maintenance, durability and long-term performance.
CDECK Composite Decking
Timber Decking
Durability
High resistance to weather, moisture and insects
Depends on maintenance and exposure
Maintenance
Occasional cleaning
Requires regular treatments
Water resistance
High
May absorb moisture
Safety
Anti-slip and splinter-free
May develop splinters and cracks
Stability
Does not rot or warp easily
May warp or crack
Aesthetics
Uniform appearance or natural finish
Natural and organic appearance
Installation
Fixing system designed for easy installation
Fixing system designed for easy installation
Long-term cost
Low maintenance requirements
Higher maintenance costs
Composite decking is frequently chosen by those looking for a durable, low-maintenance outdoor surface, while natural timber continues to be valued for its traditional aesthetic. The best solution will depend on aesthetic preferences, the conditions of the outdoor space and the desired level of maintenance.
7. Can composite decking be installed directly on soil?
Yes. CDECK composite decking can be installed on soil, provided the appropriate installation conditions are met.
To ensure the stability and durability of the outdoor surface, it is necessary to:
- ensure a braced structure;
- compact the ground correctly at the support points;
- allow for an air gap underneath for ventilation;
- prevent obstruction of the underside, for example by using a geotextile membrane.
As with any composite decking system, correct installation is essential to ensure the long-term performance and durability of the surface.
You can also consult the CDECK composite decking installation video and technical data sheet for all installation recommendations on soil.
8. Does composite decking change colour over time?
Yes. As with other materials, composite decking may show minor colour variations over time, particularly during the first few months after installation.
In the case of CDECK Original®, the colour tends to stabilise gradually after outdoor exposure, taking on a slightly more natural and lighter tone due to the absorption of water by the wood fibres. After this initial period, the colour and texture remain largely stable.
CDECK WUUDE®, on the other hand, features a highly UV-resistant coating, ensuring greater colour stability and very little variation over time.
9. How do you clean and maintain composite decking?
Maintenance of CDECK composite decking is simple and minimal. In general, periodic cleaning with water and a neutral detergent is sufficient to keep the surface looking its best and prevent the permanent build-up of residue.
One of the main advantages of composite decking is precisely its low maintenance requirements — there is no need to varnish, paint or apply regular treatments, as is the case with many natural timber surfaces.
For more detailed information on cleaning, maintenance and care, please refer to the cleaning and maintenance page and the CDECK composite decking technical data sheet.
10. What is the price of composite decking per square metre?
The price of composite decking per square metre varies depending on several factors, as there is no single figure that applies to all situations.
The main factors that influence the price are:
- Product quality — there are different ranges of composite decking on the market, with significant variations in appearance, performance, durability and warranty, which directly affects the cost;
- Installation type — a straightforward installation with substructure profiles and clips has a different cost to more complex solutions, such as self-supporting substructures with adjustable raised bases. Residential or commercial use also affects the final price;
- Area complexity — a uniform rectangular area is simpler to execute than one with cut-outs, curved shapes, level changes or steps, which may require finishing profiles or specific solutions;
- Product range and board type — the price also varies depending on the product line chosen and the type of board (hollow or solid, single-layer or encapsulated).
For CDECK composite decking, indicative board prices start at 19.07€ for the CDECK Original hollow board and 20.21€ for the CDECK WUUDE. For a final price per m², including materials and installation accessories, a personalised quote is recommended.
You can also use the Deck simulator to get an estimate for your outdoor project.
These are some of the key questions about CDECK composite decking, helping to clarify common queries related to its use, performance and characteristics in outdoor spaces.
To explore all frequently asked questions about CDECK composite decking, visit our FAQs page.
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