Can you use joists made with composite material for a low-level deck?

[makingitup]

I am planning a low level deck. I understand concerns about rot if there is not enough clearance. Has anyone used joists made of composite material to alleviate this issue? Thanks

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @makingitup. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about constructing a deck.

I am unaware of any composite joist products. What sort of height are you working with? Many of our members have constructed decks within a low height. Provided ventilation is allowed on the sides of the deck and the boards are gapped slightly wider than normal, standard H3-treated Pine lasts a substantial amount of time.

Typically, composite materials have a large percentage of timber within them, so they have requirements similar to those of standard timbers. For instance, our composite decking boards have a minimum height above ground of 90mm without adequate drainage. So, using a composite material is not an automatic pass in damp conditions and your deck plan must still be carefully considered in order to see a significant lifespan.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell