Q: Does Gingfisher fade or change color?

A: There are several factors that cause fade. Bad weather, sunlight exposure and heavy foot traffic play a major role in the fading process of a deck. How well your Gingfisher deck endures Mother Nature depends upon what type of Gingfisher you have.

Uncapped composite decks do not have the high-performance shell with enhanced fade, stain and mold resistance. As such, these traditional composites will fade naturally over time, achieving their weathered color after 12-16 weeks.

UV stabilizer have been added to Gingfisher to reduce color fading due to extensive sun exposure. A slight change in color will occur but will retain this lighter shade through out the life of the product.

color chart for color changes.

Newer generation high-performance composites—-capped composite decking have the protective shell technology that provides superior fade and stain resistance.

Q: Why is Gingfisher Decking Better than Wood?

A: Ginfisher products offer superior durability and performance that you can’t get from wood. Gingfisher Decking resists termites, won’t rot, warp, or splinter-and never needs staining or painting. What’s more, Gingfisher decking is made from recycled materials: that’s an eco-friendly decking choice you can feel great about.

The up front cost of composite decking is more than that of pressure treated wood. However, that is offset by a useful life that’s significant longer.

Buying wood means you will have to incur the cost of replacement sooner. In addition, the maintenance costs of Wood are greater because composite decking requires less maintenance.

wood vs composites

Q: Does composite decking get hot in the sun?

A: We often get asked what is the coolest decking in our low- maintenance options. All decking was hotter by being in direct sunlight. wood-plastic composite decking as with most outdoor building products, can retain heat-especially after a long day in direct sunlight. All things considered, the benefits that low-maintenance decking provides, far outweigh the heat retention that it has.

At Gingfisher, we have taken steps to minimized heat build- up with certain formulations of our products. Our technology optimizes heat reflection and reduce heat transfer on contact.

Also, this will depend partly on the color of the material. Lighter colored decking will tend to reflex more of the heat, where darker colors will absorb the heat and tend to get hotter faster reaching higher temperatures.

Cooler Composite Decking

Q:How long does composite decking last?

A: Composite decking is known for its long life. Since the plastic protects the wood fibers from the elements, composite decking isn’t prone to rotting, decay, or termite damage. Gingfisher Composite decking often comes with lifespan from 10-25 years that guarantee it won’t rot or suffer structural damage under normal residential conditions.

Gingfisher decking will look just as good throughout its lifespan as it does when newly installed.

Our Lakeside Project after 10 years

Q: What colors and styles are available?

A: Gingfisher Composite decking comes in wide variety of colors, textures, and wood grain looks, so homeowners or contractor can find the right product for just about any decking project. Choose from natural looking wood colors like teak and walnut, or go with a stained gray or silver look. Grooved and smooth boards are also available, as are a variety of reversible options that feature a simple brushed texture on one side and a realistic wood grain texture on the other.

gingfisher color choices

Q: What’s the difference between hollow and solid core boards?

A: Some homeowners prefer solid boards because they look more like the real lumber traditionally used for decking.

solid boards, because of their denser construction, are particularly strong. If you plan to load down your deck with heavy objects, such as hot tubs, grills, and furniture, solid boards might offer the most stability.

Building your own deck is a labor-intensive process. If you want to work with lighter-weight materials, you could benefit from hollow boards, which weigh considerably less than their solid counterparts. You might have an easier time transporting and positioning the boards, as well.

Both Board Options provide a strong and quality deck you can count on.

Solid vs. Hollow Decking

Q: Can grooved deck boards be used for stair treads?

A: No, we do not recommend using grooved deck boards for stair treads for two reasons. First, the groove will be facing out and will not be aesthetically pleasing. Second (and most important), the long-term performance of the board may be compromised. Here’s why: When someone is walking up a staircase, the bulk of his/her weight is distributed across the front of each step. This is where the groove is located; therefore, over time, the groove could crack from the continual weight bearing down on it. We recommend using only square edge deck boards for stair treads.

Gingfisher staircase project

Q: Is Gingfisher Structural?

A: Gingfisher Wood Plastic Composite products are not structural and should only be used for intended design purposes such as walking surfaces, guardrail systems, fencing and trim;

Gingfisher composite decking has many outstanding qualities; however, it is simply too flexible for use as a structural component of the deck.

Recommend Aluminum, steel or treated wood as structure. Please note, composite products’ lifespan is related to stable and durable structure.

Gingfisher Galvanized Steel Structure

Q: Can Gingfisher Decking be installed over existing joists and framing?

A: Yes, Gingfisher can be installed over an existing substructure if the following conditions are met:

• The existing framework must be free of any damage or decay and in good, workable condition (consider having the space assessed by a licensed deck inspector).
• The joists must be spaced correctly.
• There must be adequate cross ventilation and unobstructed airflow under 50% of the deck. Allow a minimum of 1.5 inches (4 cm) between bottom of joist and the ground. Water must be able to flow away from under the deck. Improve drainage or grade flat areas where standing water may gather, and do not install decking directly to an existing or solid surface.

Gingfisher UK Project

Q: How much space is needed between deck boards for proper drainage and ventilation?

A: Allow a minimum of 3/16 inch. between Gingfisher composite boards (side to side) to ensure proper drainage and ventilation and to assist with the removal of small organic debris. Allow a minimum of 1/4 inch. spacing between boards and any permanent structure.

Depending on the weather and temperature conditions on installation day, the amount of normal expansion and contraction of the boards will vary. Darker colors will naturally expand more than lighter colors, in much the same way that darker objects heat up more in the sun than lighter ones. However, to help control end-to-end spacing, all decking should be kept at ambient temperature and shaded from direct sun prior to cutting and installing.

Anyway, Gingfisher composite decking should be installed in the floor with good Drainage system, good air circulation system and no ground water.

proper drainage and ventilation

Q: Does composite decking require maintenance?

A: Composite decks require minimal maintenance. Regularly clear off any debris like leaves, dirt, and dust. Give your deck a more thorough clean at least twice a year using just a brush, hose, and mild household cleaner. Don’t use power washers, as they can damage composite decks. Unlike wooden decks, composite decking doesn’t require staining, waterproofing, or sealing.

Gingfisher composite decking is not only a beautiful addition to the home, but can offer many advantages over traditional wood decking.

It is crucial to know how to properly care for a composite deck and taking the right steps will make all the difference.

Gingfisher decking clean & care

Q: Can I paint or stain composite decking?

A: Experts don’t recommend painting or staining composite decking, since the material is impregnated with a dye that will last as long as your deck does. If you do opt to paint or stain your composite deck, it will require regular upkeep, similar to the maintenance required for wooden decks.

Gingfisher decking no need painting

Q: What span length can I do with composite decking?

A: For perpendicular applications, the span should be 12 to 16 inches between joists. Experts recommend spans of 16 inches for a strong and solid deck. If you install at a 45-degree angle, a maximum of 12 inches on center will give the best result.

Gingfisher Decking Joist Span Advice

Q: Do I need special equipment or tools to install composite decking?

A: You don’t need special Tools to install Gingfisher composite decking, but you do need standard woodworking tools for cutting and building. Since composite decking materials cut just like wood, you can use a circular saw or a miter saw for installation. This type of decking also accepts nails and screws like real wood.

standard installation tools

Q: How much does composite decking expand and contract?

A: Composite decking does expand and contract as temperatures rise and fall, and the exact amount depends on the difference between the temperature during installation and your local area’s maximum temperature. In general, allow 3/16 inch to 1/4-inch gaps between boards to allow for expansion and contraction as well as to let dirt and water flow away naturally.

Please note, using double support joists and separate clips for each board end, when two decking boards are placed end to end.

fix these two gingfisher decking separately