Composite Decking: Plan Delivery, Storage and Jobsite Access

Confirming Your Order and Delivery Details

The first step in planning for composite decking delivery is to thoroughly review your order. Confirm the quantity, color, profile, and length of all boards, as well as any accessories like fasteners, fascia, or trim. Discrepancies found at delivery can cause significant delays.

When placing your order, discuss delivery logistics with your supplier. Confirm the estimated delivery date and time window. Inquire about the type of delivery vehicle that will be used (e.g., flatbed, box truck) and any specific access requirements for that vehicle at your project site. Some suppliers may offer specialized delivery services, such as a truck with a forklift, which can be beneficial for larger orders or sites with limited access.

Always confirm the delivery address and provide clear instructions for reaching your property, especially if it's a new build or has unusual access points. It is also wise to provide a contact number for the day of delivery so the driver can reach you with updates or questions.

Preparing Your Jobsite for Delivery

Before the delivery truck arrives, assess your jobsite for potential obstacles. Clear the delivery path of any debris, vehicles, or landscaping that might impede the truck's access. Ensure there's ample space for the truck to maneuver and unload safely.

Consider the weight and length of composite decking boards. Many boards are 12 to 20 feet long and can be heavy, especially in bundles. Plan for a clear, level area where the materials can be unloaded directly from the truck. This minimizes the need for manual carrying over long distances, reducing the risk of damage or injury.

If your project is in an area with restricted access, such as a narrow street or a property with overhead power lines, communicate these limitations to your supplier in advance. They may be able to suggest alternative delivery methods or schedule a smaller vehicle. For particularly challenging sites, you might need to arrange for a staging area off-site and transport materials in smaller batches.

Proper On-Site Storage of Composite Decking

Once delivered, composite decking requires proper storage to protect it from damage and maintain its condition. Store boards on a flat, level surface to prevent bowing or warping. Using dunnage or sleepers placed every 2-4 feet can help ensure airflow and keep boards off the ground.

Protect the decking from direct sunlight, rain, and excessive moisture. While composite decking is designed for outdoor use, prolonged exposure to harsh elements before installation can affect its appearance or lead to surface issues. Tarpaulins or temporary shelters can provide adequate protection. Ensure any covering allows for some air circulation to prevent condensation.

Keep boards organized by length and color if you have multiple types. This simplifies material selection during installation. Store fasteners and accessories in a dry, secure location, protected from theft or loss. Always refer to the manufacturer's specific storage recommendations, as they may have unique requirements for their product lines.

For example, Trex, TimberTech, and Fiberon composite decking products are designed to be durable, but proper storage before installation helps maintain their consistent color and profile. Protecting them from environmental stressors like extreme heat or pooling water is a practical step in ensuring a successful project.

Managing Jobsite Access and Material Flow

Efficient jobsite access goes beyond just delivery; it involves how materials move from storage to the installation area. Plan a clear path for carrying boards from their storage location to the deck frame. Minimize turns, stairs, or narrow passages where long boards could be difficult to maneuver.

If your project is a second-story deck, consider how boards will be lifted. Scaffolding, temporary ramps, or even a small lift might be necessary for safe and efficient material transfer. Never attempt to lift excessively heavy or long boards alone. Enlist help to prevent injury and material damage.

Maintain a tidy jobsite. Clutter not only creates trip hazards but also makes it harder to move materials efficiently. Regularly clear cut-offs and packaging. This systematic approach to material flow can save time and reduce frustration during the installation process.

Hypothetical Scenario: Delivering to a Suburban Backyard Deck

Consider a homeowner building a 16x20-foot composite deck in a suburban backyard. The property has a paved driveway leading to a two-car garage, with a relatively flat lawn extending to the backyard.

The delivery truck, a standard flatbed, arrives. The homeowner has cleared the driveway and a 10x20-foot section of lawn next to the garage. This area is level, slightly elevated, and covered with a heavy-duty tarp. They've also placed 4x4 lumber sleepers every 3 feet on the tarp, perpendicular to where the decking will be laid.

The driver unloads the bundles of 16-foot boards directly onto the prepared storage area. The homeowner then covers the stack with another large tarp, secured with bungee cords, ensuring it's protected from sun and rain but still allows for some air circulation. The fasteners and smaller trim pieces are moved into the garage for secure, dry storage.

This planning ensures the materials are protected, accessible, and not obstructing daily life or creating hazards. When installation begins, the 16-foot boards can be easily carried from this staging area to the deck frame with minimal effort, as the path is clear and relatively short.

Before you order

• Have I confirmed my entire order (quantity, color, profile, length) with the supplier?
• Have I discussed the estimated delivery date, time window, and vehicle type with the supplier?
• Is the delivery path clear of obstacles and wide enough for the delivery truck?
• Is there a safe, level, and accessible area for unloading materials?
• Have I prepared a proper storage area (flat, level, dunnage, protected from elements) for the decking?
• Are all accessories and fasteners stored in a dry, secure location?
• Is there a clear and safe path for moving materials from storage to the installation site?
• Have I considered any special equipment needed for lifting materials (e.g., for a second-story deck)?
• Have I reviewed the manufacturer's specific storage and handling guidelines for my chosen composite decking?
• Do I have a contact number for the delivery driver on the day of delivery?

Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.

Questions to help you decide

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