10 Ways to Reuse Composite Decking Boards

Composite decking is a common material for modern outdoor spaces. As a recyclable material, it is not a disposable product. You can repurpose leftover composite deck boards for various small projects. This maximizes resource utilization and reduces construction waste. However, it cannot be structurally reused as a replacement for the main deck framing.

Composite wood decking boasts excellent durability and weather resistance. This makes it an outstanding material for small, functional, or decorative applications. This article will explore several methods for repurposing leftover composite decking boards. With creative design, old composite decking can serve you once again.

Benefits of Reusing Composite Decking

Composite wood decking is an exceptional engineered material. It is typically formed by heating and extruding wood fibers and recycled plastic. This unique formulation gives it exceptional properties. Consequently, reusing leftover composite decking offers the following advantages:

• Durability and Weather Resistance: Composite decking offers exceptional protective performance in every aspect.. It resists corrosion, moisture, insect damage, and UV rays. Even with prolonged use, it remains resistant to cracking, warping, or rotting. After enduring years of outdoor exposure to wind and sun, you can still reuse it.
• Low Maintenance Requirements: Composite decking does not require regular painting or sealing like wood. Consequently, other items made from it also share this low-maintenance characteristic. Typically, a simple soapy water wash is sufficient to maintain its appearance.
• Eco-Friendly Attributes: Composite deck boards are inherently environmentally friendly materials. Reusing them maximizes the utilization of this sustainable resource, significantly reducing construction waste. Additionally, this practice lowers the demand for virgin wood and plastic.
• Consistent Performance and Aesthetics: Composite decking features uniform color and overall consistency. Manufacturers like Trex and COOWIN offer multiple shade options. Moreover, composite decking resists fading. Even if slight discoloration occurs over time, it maintains an even texture. This does not compromise its aesthetic appeal when reused.

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Capped with an HDPE layer, Capped Composite Decking is made excellent at resisting stains, scratches, weathering, and fading.

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10 Ways to Reuse Leftover Composite Decking

The remaining composite deck boards can be used for a variety of purposes. From privacy walls and seating to purely decorative garden planters. Its applications are limited only by your imagination. The specific project depends on how much decking you have left. Here are 10 creative ideas.

Building Window Sills or Planters

Plants are an excellent way to add natural charm to any space. Window boxes and planters are among the most versatile ways to decorate outdoor areas, allowing you to switch styles with the seasons. Better yet, with a little planning, you can easily learn how to make planters from composite decking boards. You’ll need safety goggles, a tape measure, a saw, and a drill.

Based on your existing materials, it’s easy to determine the dimensions for your deck board planter. Next, mark and cut the boards to size. Line the bottom with landscape fabric to keep moisture out. While composite decking is inherently waterproof, using landscape fabric is still advisable. It aids drainage and promotes root health.

Garden Furniture or Benches

If you’re building garden furniture with composite decks, you’ll need more than just a few extra boards. This is especially true if you opt for designs with backrests or larger dimensions. With enough material on hand, why not craft a bench or outdoor table?

• Benches: Use thick boards for the seat and backrest. Pair them with a new wooden or metal frame. You could even build the frame yourself using thicker composite posts.
• Outdoor Tables: Join wide boards together to form the tabletop. Mount it on a sturdy base. This creates a durable outdoor dining table or coffee table.

Birdhouse

Observing wildlife is one of the best ways to experience nature’s beauty. A well-placed birdhouse can attract friendly visitors to your deck. Best of all, building a birdhouse requires just one deck board.

The simplest design includes a base, four identical sides, and a roof matching the base’s dimensions. The final step is cutting an entrance hole about 2 inches in diameter. You can use a wood saw for this task. You needn’t worry about maintenance. Like your deck, a birdhouse made from composite decking boards can withstand wind and rain.

Privacy Screens and Fences

Use leftover composite decking boards to build a privacy screen. It prevents neighbors from peeking in while dividing your yard into distinct spaces. Secure the boards vertically, horizontally, or diagonally onto a simple frame. This creates an attractive and functional screen.

A simpler design requires only four posts. You can then cover them with boards or plants in any pattern you desire. However, before starting, check your local building codes. Ensure the screen meets regulations for height and how the boards are attached.

Entertainment and Play Structures

With minor modifications, composite deck boards can be transformed into functional play structures. For instance, craft a cornhole board. It makes the perfect entertainment piece for family gatherings and backyard parties. Many homeowners even build treehouses or playhouses for children. Using composite decking as siding ensures durability and low maintenance.

Shelving

If you want to maximize space with minimal materials, shelving is one of the best options. Even with just a few deck boards, you can create stylish and functional shelves. Cut them to length and mount them on brackets against a wall. They can serve as storage or display shelves in kitchens, home offices, or bathrooms.

You can build as many shelves as you need. It depends on how many composite decking boards you have left, how much space you have available, and where you want to place the shelves. Freestanding and wall-mounted designs are the two top choices. These shelves enhance your decor while providing practical storage for essentials.

Outdoor Bar or Kitchen

You can incorporate new designs into your deck project. This helps utilize leftover decking boards. For example, an outdoor bar can make the patio more convenient for entertaining guests. However, keep in mind that such large-scale projects typically require more than just a few extra decking boards.

Similarly, an outdoor kitchen is also a great place for hosting events or providing convenience. It significantly enhances the patio experience. You can use deck boards to build outdoor kitchen accessories. For instance, you can simply construct a cooking or food storage area. You could even install a sink or refrigerator.

Bottle Opener

If you only have a few small pieces of composite wood decking, you can make a bottle opener. This is a great addition to any deck that serves drinks. Using a quarter-piece of decking, you can create a simple bottle opener.

To make space for the bottle cap, you’ll need to cut a notch in the top half of the board. Then place a washer or coin on the board. This allows you to firmly press down bottle caps. You can also paint or stain these simple designs for added detail. Finally, mount or hang them wherever a bottle opener might be needed.

House Number Sign

When you have small pieces of decorative trim left over, you might wonder what to do with them. Why not turn them into clever DIY projects? For example, use them to make a house number sign.

Store-bought house numbers might look like everyone else’s. DIYing a unique, personalized sign brings a sense of accomplishment. All you need is a wood saw and a bit of skill to complete it.

DIY Swing Set

This might be one of the trickier ways to repurpose old composite decking boards. But it’s also one of the most practical. Swinging outdoors is a favorite activity for kids (and some adults). The best part is that you only need a few sturdy planks.

Use solid composite decking boards for the swing seat. Drill holes at both ends to attach ropes or chains. This creates a solid swing frame. Of course, you’ll also need a simple support structure. This might involve building three crossbeams and digging a bit into the ground.

Conclusion

Composite decking material is far from a disposable item. Its durability, weather resistance, and eco-friendliness make it an excellent material for reuse. Whether crafting a simple planter box or building elegant garden furniture, it adds personality and charm to your home.

If you’re considering replacing your deck or have leftover composite decking boards, don’t treat them as waste. They can help you create a thrifty, creative, and green lifestyle. For more information on composite decking, contact COOWIN. Our expert team stands ready to provide consultation and premium products.

FAQ

How Durable is Reused Composite Decking?

Reused composite decking retains its core durability. Its material inherently resists moisture, decay, and pests. As long as it shows no damage or severe wear, it will serve exceptionally well in new projects. For smaller projects, any difference in durability is virtually negligible.

Which Types of Composite Decking are Best Suited for Reuse?

Higher-quality solid or capped composite decking is ideal for reuse. It offers superior resistance to staining, scratching, and UV exposure. Conversely, boards with significant structural damage are unsuitable for reuse. Additionally, surfaces exposed to prolonged moisture may develop mold growth. If mold has penetrated deep into the material, it is not recommended for projects involving frequent human contact.

Does Reused Composite Decking Require Regular Sealing or Painting?

No. This is one of the core advantages of composite deck material. Reused composite decking boards still require no maintenance, such as sealing. Unless you wish to change its color, no painting is necessary. It only requires routine cleaning with water and soap.