Composite Decking 5.5" x 16'
Standard-grade composite decking in 16-foot lengths for wider deck spans. The longer boards eliminate butt joints on decks up to 16 feet wide, providing a seamless appearance with all the low-maintenance benefits of composite material.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Seamless look on wide decks
- Virtually maintenance-free
- Resistant to fading and staining
- Splinter-free surface
- Long manufacturer warranty
Considerations
- Premium price point
- Heavy boards require helper for install
- Can retain heat in summer
- Limited color change options after install
- Requires specific hidden fastener systems
Cost Estimates by Deck Size
The table below shows pre-computed material costs for five standard deck sizes using Composite Decking 5.5" x 16'. All estimates include structural framing (joists, beams, posts), concrete footings, fasteners, hardware, railing on three sides, and one set of stairs. The board cost column shows the cost of decking boards alone, while the total includes all materials needed for a complete deck.
| Deck Size | Area | Boards | Board Cost | Total Materials |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10' x 12' Deck | 120 sq ft | 18 | $1,584 | $4,485 |
| 12' x 16' Deck | 192 sq ft | 29 | $2,552 | $5,975 |
| 14' x 20' Deck | 280 sq ft | 42 | $3,696 | $8,807 |
| 16' x 24' Deck | 384 sq ft | 57 | $5,016 | $10,676 |
| 20' x 20' Deck | 400 sq ft | 59 | $5,192 | $11,559 |
Material Comparison for a 12' x 16' Deck
How does Composite Decking 5.5" x 16' compare to other decking materials? The following table shows total material costs for a standard 12' x 16' deck (192 sq ft) across multiple decking options. This comparison includes identical framing and hardware for each option; only the surface decking boards differ.
| Decking Material | Price/LF | Board Cost | Total Materials |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite Decking 5.5" x 16' | $6/lf | $2,552 | $5,975 |
| Pressure-Treated Pine 5.5" x 12' | $2/lf | $912 | $4,335 |
| Composite Decking 5.5" x 12' | $5/lf | $2,052 | $5,475 |
| Western Red Cedar 5.5" x 12' | $5/lf | $2,052 | $5,475 |
| Redwood Decking 5.5" x 12' | $8/lf | $3,648 | $7,071 |
| Ipe Hardwood 5.5" x 12' | $9/lf | $4,104 | $7,527 |
| PVC Decking 5.5" x 12' | $6/lf | $2,736 | $6,159 |
Maintenance and Lifespan
Expected lifespan: 25-30+ years with proper maintenance. The actual service life depends on your climate zone, sun exposure, proximity to water, and how diligently maintenance is performed. Decks in the Pacific Northwest that receive heavy rainfall will weather differently than decks in the arid Southwest, and maintenance schedules should be adjusted accordingly.
Maintenance requirements: Semi-annual cleaning with soap and water. Remove debris from board gaps. Treat any mold or mildew spots with a composite deck cleaner. No sealing, staining, or painting required.
Estimated annual maintenance cost: $25-50 per year (cleaning supplies only). Over a 20-year period, these annual costs accumulate and should be factored into your total cost of ownership calculation. A material with a higher purchase price but lower maintenance may actually cost less over the deck's full lifespan.
Proper installation is the single most important factor in deck longevity regardless of material choice. Ensure adequate ventilation beneath the deck surface (minimum 18 inches of clearance for ground-level decks), proper drainage away from the structure, and correct fastener selection for the specific decking material. Using the wrong fastener type or spacing can void manufacturer warranties and lead to premature board failure.
Installation Tips for Composite
Composite and PVC decking require attention to thermal expansion during installation. Follow the manufacturer's gapping instructions precisely, as these materials expand and contract more than natural wood with temperature changes. Use only manufacturer-approved hidden fastener systems, as face-screwing can cause cracking and voids the warranty. Store boards flat and elevated off the ground before installation. Cut with a standard circular saw using a fine-tooth carbide blade (40 teeth or more for clean edges). Some premium composites are directional, so install all boards with the grain pattern running the same direction for a consistent appearance.
Other Composite Options
Looking for a different size or configuration in composite decking? The following options are available in the same material:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Composite Decking 5.5" x 16' cost for a 12x16 deck?
Using Composite Decking 5.5" x 16' for a 12' x 16' deck (192 sq ft), the total material cost including framing, hardware, railing, and stairs is approximately $5,975. The decking boards alone account for $2,552 of that total. Adding professional installation at $25/sq ft would bring the complete project cost to approximately $10,775.
How long does composite decking last?
Composite decking typically lasts 25-30+ years with proper maintenance. Semi-annual cleaning with soap and water. Remove debris from board gaps. Annual maintenance costs are estimated at $25-50 per year (cleaning supplies only). The actual lifespan depends on your climate, the quality of installation, and how consistently maintenance is performed.
Is composite a good choice for decking?
Composite is an excellent low-maintenance option that eliminates the need for annual staining and sealing. Key advantages include seamless look on wide decks, virtually maintenance-free, resistant to fading and staining. The main considerations are premium price point and heavy boards require helper for install. Your decision should factor in both upfront cost and long-term maintenance requirements.