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How To Install Composite Decking Over Concrete

For composite decking, many recommend using at least pressure-treated wood. The sleepers should at least be 1 1/2 inches in height and width. While you can follow the concrete slab’s slight slope, you can also use spacers to level it. Secure the sleepers in place by drilling them into the slab carefully.

Can you lay composite decking on concrete?

Yes. In most cases you can lay composite decking over concrete (keeping in mind you’ll have to build a substructure that allows airflow and drainage). In fact, concrete surfaces can provide a dry, durable, and stable area that’s essentially ideal for composite decking.

How do you attach composite deck boards to concrete?

Attach the boards to the sleepers using composite decking screws that match the boards in color. Predrill the screw holes, two per sleeper, and screw the boards securely into place using an electric screwdriver to drive the screws flush with the decking surface.

Can you put deck boards directly on concrete?

An existing concrete patio will make your deck installation much easier and faster, and you can install your deck directly onto the concrete. You will want to account for water drainage and material expansion/contraction, so it is best to place boards called ‘sleepers’ underneath the deck.

Can you screw decking straight to concrete?

Begin Installing Drill pilot holes a maximum of 24 inches apart along with the sleeper, using a hammer drill to drill through the wood and into the concrete ¼ inch to ½ inch deeper than the length of your screws. Drive concrete screws into each hole with an impact driver.

Can you put wood decking over concrete?

Even if your patio is in terrible shape, you can deck over it. Cracks, craters and seasonal movement along cracks are no problem. (depending on the thickness of your decking and whether or not you put spacers under the sleepers). So any door thresholds adjoining the patio must be at least that far above the concrete.

Can composite decking be put directly on the ground?

Composite lumber is highly resistant to rot and impervious to insects so is an acceptable choice ground contact.

How do you attach wood to concrete without drilling?

Attaching wood with epoxy A common way to secure wooden items to concrete without drill is by using epoxy glue systems. This glue is specifically manufactured for these problems. Before opting for this method, you need to thoroughly clean off and dry the wood for them to bond correctly.

How do you prepare the ground for a composite deck?

Clear away plants, rocks and weeds, and dig down to a depth of roughly 50 mm. Clear away the turf so you’re working with the bare soil. Check the ground is even. Use a flat surface (a decking board or tamper is perfect for this) and place a spirit level on top to check the ground is even.

Does composite decking need a base?

When building a composite decking, the first thing you need to do is create a base for the decking. Without the proper foundation, your composite decking won’t last as long as it should. So, what base do you need for composite decking? You will need a solid base so that your decking will stay strong on the ground.

Is it easy to lay composite decking?

Composite decking is relatively easy to install if you have planned your layout accurately and have a solid timber frame as a base. The deck boards fit to the frame using specific fasteners and screws. You will need to acclimatise your boards on site for at least 72 hours prior to installation.

Will Liquid Nails hold wood to concrete?

The answer is yes. Liquid Nails construction adhesive will fasten wood to concrete as long as the conditions are right and you use the right type of Liquid Nails. I recommend using Heavy Duty Liquid Nails model LN-950 Polyurethane Adhesive. The hold is very strong and it’s easy to work with.

Can you adhere wood to concrete?

Attaching Wood to Concrete With Epoxy One of the best ways to secure wood to concrete is also the easiest: epoxy glue. There are certain epoxies that are manufactured specifically for wood-to-concrete use, and you can try using one on its own or combined with nails or screws.

Will no more nails stick wood to concrete?

UniBond No More Nails Original construction adhesive is a heavy-duty glue ideal for mounting and bonding, without the need for nails, screws or hassle. The multi-functional grab adhesive is suitable for most common building materials, e.g., wood, ceramic, metal, concrete, brick, plaster, stone and most plastics.

Can composite decking be laid on sand?

The decking modules can now be laid on the flat surface of the sand. If you want to have a good long lasting deck that stays flat first lay out loose base boards made up, for example, of 25x100mm pressure impregnated timber at 300 to 400mm centres.

Which way should I lay decking?

What is the correct way to lay decking? Any decking board manufacturer or professional will tell you: “The proper way to install a decking board is ridge side down.” The ridges are designed to allow for airflow, to stop moisture sitting in the ridge, and allow for a stronger structure.

Do you need footings for a ground level deck?

If you want to expand your outdoor living space, a ground level deck might be your best option. Since it’s not connected to a house, it can go anywhere in your yard and doesn’t require deep footings. Because it rises just inches above ground, it doesn’t need stairs or railings.

How much gap do you need between composite deck boards?

One of the most critical steps for properly securing composite decking in place is to make sure you have a 1/4-inch to 3/16-inch gap between the decking boards (don’t exceed 1/2 inch). This space is important for two reasons.