Welcome to another edition of our “Decking Deep Dive” series.
Today, we’re tackling a practical aspect of working with composite decking—cutting.
For homeowners in Melbourne and Sydney, understanding how to properly cut your decking is essential for achieving the best results in installation and customisation.
What is Composite Decking?
Composite decking combines wood fibres with plastic, providing a durable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood decking. It’s designed to withstand harsh weather, resist fading, and be low maintenance – meaning you can spend more time enjoying your deck than having to clean it – making it a popular choice for outdoor living spaces.
Can Composite Decking Be Cut?
Yes, composite decking can be cut to fit the unique contours of your outdoor space. For the best results, it’s recommended to use a blade designed to cut aluminium. This ensures clean cuts without damaging the material.
Why You Might Need to Cut Composite Decking
Cutting composite decking is a common step in both installation and customisation. Whether you’re fitting decking around a pool, adjusting board lengths to match the perimeter of your deck, or creating intricate designs and patterns, cutting allows for full customisation of your outdoor space.
Choosing the Right Tools for Cutting Composite Decking
The key to cutting composite decking effectively is using the right tools. A saw blade that’s capable of cutting aluminium is ideal because it’s designed to handle the density and composition of composite boards, ensuring clean and precise cuts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting Composite Decking
- Measure and Mark: Accurately measure and mark where you need to cut.
- Support the Board: Ensure the board is well-supported on a stable surface.
- Use the Right Saw: With your aluminium-cutting blade, follow your markings carefully to make the cut.
- Clean Up: Smooth any rough edges with light sanding if necessary.
Safety Precautions When Cutting Composite Decking
Safety is paramount when cutting composite decking. Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris, ensure good ventilation if cutting indoors, and follow all manufacturer guidelines to avoid voiding warranties.
Installation Tips for Cut Composite Decking
After cutting, handle your decking with care to avoid chipping the edges. If your design exposes any cut ends towards the visible area of your deck, consider using a fascia board to line the area and protect the end.
While we also love a DIY, we recommend working with a deck installation expert – here’s why.
Why Choose Composite Decking for Your Melbourne or Sydney Home?
Composite decking is an excellent choice for urban environments like Melbourne and Sydney due to its durability and low maintenance needs. It withstands the elements better than wood, maintaining its colour and integrity for years – which is a huge plus in Australia, especially in cities like Melbourne and Sydney where the weather can be unpredictable. You don’t need to worry about maintaining the deck as routinely as you do with other materials, nor do you need to be concerned about the deck fading from the weather elements or a lack of grip on the deck in wet conditions – composite decking truly solves all of these problems.
Conclusion
Cutting composite decking allows for endless creative possibilities in customising your outdoor space. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily tailor each piece to fit perfectly within your design vision. For more insights and assistance with your decking needs, visit WoodEvo today. You can speak to one of our team members, book a showroom tour, or request a free sample of our composite decking boards.