Creating the perfect outdoor space often begins with the right choice of decking. Whether you’re looking to design a peaceful retreat, a stylish patio, or a dynamic entertaining area, your decking choice plays a crucial role in defining the look and feel of the space. Rinato’s composite decking offers a modern solution that blends beauty, durability, and sustainability, making it the ideal choice for any UK garden or outdoor project. In this blog, we’ll explore the features of Rinato composite decking and provide essential installation tips to help you achieve a flawless finish.
Why Choose Rinato Composite Decking?
Rinato’s composite decking is more than just a practical choice—it’s a long-term investment in your outdoor living area. Here are some of the key reasons why Rinato decking stands out:
1. Durability and Longevity
Unlike traditional wood decking, which can warp, splinter, or rot over time, Rinato composite decking is designed to withstand the elements. Made from a blend of recycled wood fibres and plastic, it offers exceptional resistance to moisture, mould, and UV damage, ensuring your deck looks great for years to come. The UK’s unpredictable weather won’t affect its appearance or structure, so you can enjoy a low-maintenance solution that requires minimal upkeep.
2. A Sustainable Choice
For environmentally conscious homeowners, Rinato composite decking is a fantastic option. By using recycled materials, Rinato helps to reduce waste and promote sustainability. In choosing composite decking, you are not only enhancing your garden’s aesthetics but also supporting eco-friendly practices.
3. Low Maintenance
Gone are the days of sanding, staining, and sealing traditional timber decks. With Rinato composite decking, maintenance is as simple as a quick clean with soapy water or a hose. Its non-porous surface prevents staining from food, drink, or outdoor elements, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your space and less time worrying about its upkeep.
4. Variety of Styles and Finishes
Rinato offers a range of styles, textures, and colours, allowing you to customise your outdoor area to match your design vision. Whether you prefer the classic look of natural wood or something more modern and sleek, there’s a Rinato composite decking option to suit every taste. The wide range of finishes replicates the beauty of wood without the drawbacks, ensuring your deck will look timeless for years to come.
Essential Installation Tips for Rinato Composite Decking
While Rinato composite decking is designed for easy installation, following the correct steps will ensure you achieve a professional finish that will stand the test of time. Below are some key tips to help guide you through the process.
1. Preparation is Key
Before installing your decking, make sure the ground is properly prepared. Clear any grass, plants, and debris from the area and ensure the surface is level. If you’re laying the decking on uneven ground, it may be necessary to level the surface or create a framework of joists to support the decking boards.
It’s also crucial to consider drainage. Ensuring that water can flow away from your deck will prevent the build-up of moisture beneath the boards and prolong the life of the decking.
2. Joist Spacing and Framework
The foundation of any deck is its supporting structure, so pay close attention to the spacing of your joists. For Rinato composite decking, joists should typically be spaced at 300mm centres for the best support. Installing the joists too far apart may result in a bouncy surface, while too close together can make the installation unnecessarily complex.
Ensure your joists are installed in a pattern that allows for proper airflow beneath the decking boards, which will help to prevent moisture build-up and allow the material to expand and contract naturally.
3. Allow for Expansion and Contraction
One of the benefits of composite decking is that it’s more stable than timber, but it still expands and contracts slightly with changes in temperature. To accommodate this, it’s important to leave a small gap between the decking boards during installation—usually around 5mm. This will ensure that your deck remains smooth and even throughout the year, no matter the weather conditions.
4. Use the Correct Fasteners
Rinato decking is designed to be easy to install, but using the correct fasteners is essential for both the appearance and durability of your deck. Hidden fasteners, which slot between the boards, create a seamless finish with no visible screws. These are a popular choice for those looking to achieve a sleek, modern look.
If you opt for traditional screws, make sure they are stainless steel or coated to prevent rust. Always pre-drill holes to avoid cracking or splitting the boards.
5. Finishing Touches
Once your decking boards are installed, you can add finishing touches to enhance the overall look. Rinato offers matching trim and fascia boards to give your deck a polished edge. Adding railings or integrated lighting can also elevate your outdoor space, creating a beautiful area to relax in after dark.
Caring for Your Rinato Composite Decking
Although Rinato composite decking is low maintenance, a little care will ensure it stays looking its best. Regularly sweeping your deck to remove debris will prevent scratches, while an occasional wash with a soft brush and soapy water will keep it clean. For tougher stains, use a composite decking cleaner.
Unlike traditional timber, Rinato composite decking doesn’t need to be treated, stained, or sealed, saving you both time and money in the long run.
Conclusion
Transforming your outdoor space with Rinato’s composite decking is a decision you won’t regret. Offering style, durability, and sustainability, it’s the perfect solution for UK homeowners looking to create an outdoor area that’s both beautiful and practical. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or working with a professional, following the correct installation steps will ensure your deck provides enjoyment for many years to come.
With its wide range of colours, low-maintenance qualities, and eco-friendly design, Rinato composite decking is more than just a surface to walk on—it’s the foundation for your outdoor living.
