More Than Boards: What It Really Takes to Build a Great Composite Deck
Composite decks are a popular choice for San Diego homeowners who want the look of wood without the constant maintenance. They resist fading, don’t splinter, and stay cooler underfoot—but the truth is, a composite deck is only as good as what’s underneath and around it.
At HUGE Handyman, we’ve built composite decks on slopes, rooftops, and backyard patios. Here’s what we’ve learned it really takes to build one that holds up over time and feels solid from day one.
1. Framing Built for Composite (Not Wood)
Composite boards are heavier than wood and often require tighter framing—usually 12 inches on center, instead of the older standard of 16 inches. We often see existing decks where homeowners hope to reuse the framing—but the layout just doesn’t cut it.
Sometimes the joists are spaced too far apart. Other times, the boards are being laid at an angle or in a picture-frame design, which increases the need for added support. Add in the fact that composite materials vary in thickness from brand to brand, and suddenly you’ve got a framing plan that needs a full rethink.
Bottom line: We always inspect the structure and call it like it is. If it can’t safely support the deck you want, we’ll rebuild it right.
2. It’s Not Just Surface Work—It’s Site Work
One of the biggest variables in deck building isn’t the materials—it’s the location.
If the deck is down a hill, across a lawn, or built into a slope, we factor in:
Material staging areas
Safe working platforms or scaffolds
Hauling tools and debris manually
Reinforcement against shifting or erosion
These real-world logistics affect timeline, effort, and build quality. If your deck isn’t easy to access, we make sure our plan still works—instead of just hoping it will.
3. Waterproofing and Framing Protection
Composite is durable—but the framing underneath still needs protection. We install:
Flashing tape on every joist to prevent trapped moisture
Flashing around ledgers and house connections
Sealed hardware points to keep moisture out over time
These steps don’t just meet code—they extend the life of your deck by years.
4. Details That Make It Look Custom
A well-built deck is more than a platform. We install:
Hidden fasteners or color-matched screws
Fascia boards, stair wraps, and trim for a finished look
Matching railing systems or low-maintenance cable rail
✨ Finishing Touch: Solar Railing Lights
One of our favorite elevated upgrades? Solar-powered railing lights. They add both safety and ambiance without extra wiring, and many systems integrate cleanly into composite railing kits.
We recommend these for decks that are used at night or have steps—especially if you want that high-end feel without running low-voltage systems.
Your Deck Is an Investment—Build It That Way
A composite deck may look simple, but a quality build requires planning, structural knowledge, and craftsmanship at every level.
At HUGE Handyman, we don’t just install decking—we build outdoor spaces that feel solid, look clean, and hold up over time. Whether it’s your first deck or a full backyard remodel, we’ll help you do it right from the frame up.