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4 Creative Ways to Use Composite Decking in Outdoor Living Spaces

James Moylan

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

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Creative Ways to Use Composite Decking in Maryland & Virginia

Composite decking transforms more than just traditional decks in Montgomery County and Fairfax County outdoor spaces. Modern homeowners are discovering innovative applications for composite materials beyond standard deck construction. From elegant poolside surrounds to sophisticated outdoor kitchen platforms, composite decking offers versatility, durability, and low-maintenance appeal. Discover four creative ways to elevate your outdoor living design with composite deck boards.


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Where to Put Composite Deck Boards (Other Than Your Deck!)

Move over, decks. There are a lot more ways to use composite decking boards in modern exterior design.

  1. As Siding

compisute dekcing as siding

Composite decking is sleek and attractive. It’s low maintenance but also resistant to weather, rot, and wear. It’s often easy to install.

Given all these reasons to choose composite decking, it’s no wonder design and build firms today routinely use it for exterior siding.

Resembling traditional clapboard, composite decking is an attractive, simple solution for anywhere siding, exterior cladding, or exterior trim would otherwise be used.

The most common applications include:

  • Front porches
  • Rooftop decks
  • Contemporary homes and structures, including sheds 
  1. As Under-Deck Trim

fiberon ipe decking with hidden fastener installation clifton, virginia (1)

Lattice is a common way to close off any under-deck gap, but many design and build firms today avoid lattice when possible. To many designers , it looks outdated and unattractive. As homeowners increasingly come around to the same idea, more and more people are looking for viable deck lattice alternatives.

One easy, attractive, low-maintenance solution? Composite decking boards.

Depending on the space and the homeowner’s aesthetic preferences, the composite decking can be run horizontally, vertically, or at an angle.

You don’t have to worry about longevity or wear, even in extreme climates, and it creates a more upscale, finished look that complements the existing home and outdoor living space on a whole.

  1. As Partition Walls or Privacy Walls

decking as fence

When you’re designing larger, more comprehensive outdoor living spaces, it sometimes makes sense to add a partition wall or a privacy wall.

This can be used to give you a sense of space and division, especially from overly close neighbors. (This is a problem any Northern Virginia design and build firm knows well!)

If the outdoor living space is large enough, it can also serve as a way to naturally divide different areas within that space. Think separating a wet bar from a dining area or a gathering space from a food prep zone.

In either case, using composite decking in those structures gives you aesthetic, functional, and durability-related benefits.

  1. As Walls in an Outdoor Shower

trex samples

If you have a beach house, pool house, or similar structure, composite decking can be an effective material for an outdoor shower area. Unlike natural wood, you don’t have to worry about splinters, mildew, or water-related wear and tear.

Want a Creative, Experienced Design and Build Firm to Create Your Outdoor Living Space?

Looking to build a truly unique outdoor living space in your Northern Virginia or Maryland home? Want to partner with an experienced expert who can provide guidance, incorporate your insight, and execute the project from idea to installation?

Then contact Design Builders today. We specialize in high-end custom outdoor living spaces, including screen porches, decks, and outdoor kitchens.

We’re always happy to answer your questions or to provide an estimate for your upcoming project.

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Composite decking offers versatile applications throughout your outdoor living space—from siding and under-deck trim to privacy walls and rooftop installations. Design Builders specializes in creative composite decking solutions across Montgomery County MD, Fairfax County VA, and the greater DMV area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about 4 Unexpected Ways to Use Composite Decking in Outdoor Living Spaces

What does a deck builder near me typically charge?

Costs vary based on materials, size, and complexity. Composite decking, Trex, and custom features affect pricing. Contact Design Builders in Bethesda, Rockville, or McLean for a personalized quote.

What is screen porch cost in Montgomery County Maryland?

Screened porch pricing depends on dimensions, materials, and design. Design Builders offers premium installations throughout MD and VA. Request a consultation for accurate estimates.

How does composite deck contractor installation differ from traditional wood?

Composite decking requires different fastening and spacing techniques than wood. Design Builders' experienced team ensures proper installation for durability and aesthetics in Arlington, Alexandria, and Vienna.

Can Trex deck builder services include under-deck applications?

Yes. Trex composite boards work beautifully as under-deck trim, siding, and privacy walls. Design Builders creates finished, upscale looks in Potomac, Great Falls, and Reston.

Is screened porch installation harder than standard deck building?

Screened porch installation requires specialized framing and screening expertise. Design Builders handles complex builds across Fairfax County VA and the entire DMV region.