Composite Decks Built for Louisiana Climate Metairie Deck and Outdoor
Upgrade to a low-maintenance deck that stays beautiful in our Louisiana climate. Metairie Deck & Outdoor designs and installs composite and PVC systems from Trex® and TimberTech®/AZEK®—perfect for the heat, humidity, and heavy rain we see across Jefferson and Orleans Parishes. From Metairie and Kenner to New Orleans, Chalmette, Slidell, Mandeville, and Covington, we handle design, permits, and code-correct framing, then finish with picture-frame borders, hidden fasteners, and modern railings. Get color samples in-person, compare price options, and see how quickly a composite upgrade pays off in reduced maintenance.
Book your free estimate today!
Benefits (What You’ll Notice Day-1 and Year-10)
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Fade & Stain Resistance: Capped composite/PVC boards resist UV and food/oil spills—ideal for Gulf Coast sun and crawfish boils.
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No Splinters, Low Upkeep: No annual sanding; just a quick wash to remove pollen and salt air film.
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Hidden Fasteners: We use manufacturer-approved systems for clean lines and uniform board spacing.
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Matched Finishes: Coordinated fascia, risers, and stair treads for a finished, “built-in” look.
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Integrated Lighting: Low-voltage LED stair and post lights improve nighttime safety and curb appeal.
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Built for Humidity: Proper ledger flashing, joist tape, and ventilation details to combat moisture creep.
Brands & Lines (We Build to Manufacturer Specs)
We install leading lines from Trex®—Enhance, Select, Transcend—and TimberTech®/AZEK®—Premier, Landmark, Vintage. At your consult, we bring full-size boards for side-by-side color and texture comparisons, then recommend:
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Board Type: Composite vs. cellular PVC depending on sun exposure, shade trees, and proximity to pools.
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Span & Layout: We confirm joist spacing per line (often 16″ O.C.; 12″ O.C. for diagonals and many stair treads).
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Fasteners & Hardware: ACQ-rated/stainless screws, Cortex®/CAMO® color-matched options, and hidden systems approved by each brand.
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Thermal Movement: Proper gapping and breaker boards to control expansion in summer heat.
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Framing Protection: Joist/beam tape and isolation where dissimilar materials meet to prevent galvanic reaction.
Design Add-Ons (Details That Elevate the Build)
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Borders & Inlays: Picture-frame borders, breaker boards, and herringbone/diagonal layouts to reduce butt joints and control movement.
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Drink Rails & Rail Systems: Aluminum, composite, or stainless cable rails with code-compliant post blocking; drink-rail caps for casual seating.
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Under-Deck Drainage: Transform space below into a dry patio with panel or under-joist systems, finished with soffit, fans, and recessed lights.
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Stairs That Feel Solid: Extra stringers for composite treads, closed risers, anti-skid noses, and lighting tied to a photosensor/timer.
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Built-Ins: Benches, planters, privacy screens, and gate kits (great for pools and pets).
Care & Warranty (Keep It Looking New)
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Simple Cleaning: Soap/water or approved deck cleaner 1–2×/year; soft brush only. Avoid harsh solvents, pressure nozzle gouging, and wire brushes.
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Heat Management: Choose lighter colors or PVC for sunnier exposures; add shade structures where needed.
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Furniture & Mats: Use wide, smooth feet; avoid rubber-backed mats that can discolor caps.
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Snow/Storm Prep: Plastic shovel if ever needed; clear debris from drainage systems after heavy rain.
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Warranty Support: We register products as required and provide your finish schedule and care sheet so manufacturer warranties stay intact.
Composite Decking FAQs
How long does composite decking last in Louisiana’s heat and humidity?
Most premium composite/PVC systems deliver 25–50-year fade/stain warranties and routinely outlast wood when framed and flashed correctly.
Will a composite deck get too hot in the sun?
All dark surfaces warm up, but lighter colors and PVC boards (e.g., AZEK®) run cooler. We’ll bring samples so you can feel them in direct sun.
Can you resurface my existing frame with composite?
Often yes—after a structural inspection of posts, beams, joists, and the ledger. We also add joist tape and correct spacing before re-decking.
What joist spacing do you use?
Per manufacturer specs: typically 16″ O.C. for straight lays and 12″ O.C. for diagonals and many stair treads to keep bounce down and warranties intact.
Do I have to worry about mold or mildew?
Capped boards resist surface growth, but pollen and shade can create film. A gentle soap-and-water wash 1–2×/year keeps the surface clean.
Are hidden fasteners worth it?
Yes—cleaner look, consistent gaps, and fewer penetrations in the cap. We use brand-approved hidden systems or color-matched plugs where needed.
Will composite fade?
Premium lines carry fade warranties. Expect slight initial weathering; after that, color remains stable with normal care.
What maintenance is required?
No sanding or staining—just a gentle wash. Avoid wire brushes, harsh solvents, and very high-pressure nozzles.
Can I grill on a composite deck?
Yes—use a heat-resistant mat and keep hot metal away from the surface. For built-in kitchens, we add non-combustible pads and proper clearances.
What about pools, hot tubs, and salt air?
Composite/PVC performs great around water. We use stainless hardware, isolation details, and ventilation to handle splash zones and coastal air.
How does pricing compare to wood?
Upfront cost is higher than pressure-treated but similar to many hardwoods. Over 3–5 years, reduced maintenance usually evens out the total cost.
Do you pull permits in Jefferson/Orleans/St. Bernard/St. Tammany?
Yes—we handle drawings, permits, and inspections and build to local code (heights, rail loads, setbacks).
Can my dog’s nails scratch composite?
It’s tougher than wood, but any surface can scratch. We suggest harder caps, runner mats in traffic zones, and felt pads under furniture.
How long does the project take?
Most composite builds or resurfaces finish in 2–3 weeks after permit release, depending on scope and weather.