Let us talk about composite decks. You have probably seen these decks around Brigham City. Maybe you saw them on a new house up by the mountains or a home that got updated closer to Main Street. These decks are popular for good reasons. There is a lot of talk out there about them, and we want to help you understand it all. Omega Deck Solutions has been building decks in this valley for many years. We have real-world advice on what you need to know before, during, and after a Composite Deck project.
Before You Start: Planning Your Composite Deck
First, it is important to know that composite is not wood. Composite Decking is a mix of wood fibers as well as plastic. Sometimes it is all plastic, which is called PVC. This blend gives you a deck that is solid. It resists rot as well as insects and decay. A Composite Deck generally needs less work than a traditional wooden deck. This is a big benefit for people who do not want to spend every spring staining or sealing their deck.
DIY or Pro? That is the Important Question
This is where many homeowners can feel stuck. Can you build a Composite Deck yourself? Maybe you can. Will it save you money? It might save you money on labor costs. However, a deck is not just a flat surface. It is a structure that needs to hold up to our heavy Utah snow loads as well as the summer heatwaves.
- DIY Pros: You control the timeline for your Composite Deck project. You will also save money on labor costs. There is a good feeling of accomplishment when you do it yourself.
- DIY Cons: You need the right tools for the job. You also need to know how to use those tools. Mistakes can cost a lot of money. Getting it wrong can mean a deck that is not safe or does not last. Local building codes are also a real thing here in Brigham City. You will need to get permits from Brigham City's Community & Economic Development office. They will want to see your plans as well as make sure everything meets code. This is especially true for any Composite Deck over 200 square feet.
Our honest opinion is this: If you are just replacing the decking boards on a frame that is already good, and you are handy, you might be able to do that yourself. However, if you are building a new Composite Deck from scratch, or changing the structure a lot, you should call a professional. Omega Deck Solutions knows the codes here in Brigham City. We also have the right equipment for Composite Deck Installation. Our team understands things like proper ventilation under the deck to stop mold. This is important, especially with our wet springs. In addition, we often get better prices on materials. We can also make sure your Composite Deck warranty stays good.
Budgeting for Your Composite Deck Project
Composite Decking usually costs more upfront than wood. The materials alone can cost anywhere from $5 to $18 for each square foot. That is just for the boards. A professionally installed Composite Deck in 2026 can cost $45 to $85 for each square foot on average. Total Composite Deck projects can range from $15,000 to $65,000 or even more. That price includes the substructure as well as the hardware and labor. Do not forget about permit fees. These can be a few hundred dollars. A Composite Deck is an investment. It is an investment that pays off with durability as well as low maintenance for a long time.
During the Project: What to Expect
Whether you are doing it yourself or hiring Omega Deck Solutions for your Composite Deck, here are some things to remember.
The Substructure Matters for Your Composite Deck
Composite boards are solid. However, they need a strong foundation. If you are just re-decking, make sure your existing wood frame is solid as well as level and free of rot. If it is not, you are just putting a nice new surface on a weak base. That will cause problems later on. For new Composite Deck builds, the substructure needs to be engineered correctly for our specific conditions in Brigham City. This includes things like frost depth, which is 30 inches here, as well as seismic requirements.
Composite Deck Installation Details
Composite boards expand as well as contract with temperature changes. This is just like other materials. Proper gapping is important to allow for this movement. It also makes sure there is good drainage. Professionals know how to use hidden fasteners as well as proper spacing. This makes sure your Composite Deck looks great and lasts. If you are installing it yourself, you should follow the manufacturer's instructions very carefully. Do not take shortcuts here.
After the Project: Keeping Your Composite Deck Looking Good
You now have your beautiful new Composite Deck. The good news is that it needs low maintenance. The bad news is that it is not completely maintenance-free.