Composite decking boards are a great way to increase the value of your home. They come in many different styles and colors, which you can customize to fit your unique tastes. 

There are also many ways that you can use composite decking boards for DIY projects, such as building a new fence or creating an outdoor living space on your back porch!

What are Composite Decking Boards, and What are the Benefits?

Composite decking boards are a type of material that is made from fiber-reinforced polymer materials. They can last up to eighty years and have meager maintenance costs, making them an excellent choice for DIY projects!

These composite decking boards come in many different colors and styles so that you can find the perfect one for your project. As seen at Cladco Decking, there are a few things you should look out for when purchasing composite decking boards, such as the water-resistant level and whether or not it’s been treated with UV inhibitors. Therefore, it is important to mind the variations before making the final purchase. 

DIY projects You Can Build with Composite Decking Boards

There are several DIY projects you can do with composite decking boards. One of the most popular projects is building a fence, but many others, such as creating an outdoor living space on your back porch or adding storage to your home. Check on the list below.

Storage Chest

Build a storage chest with composite decking boards to store all of your belongings! Start by measuring the area you would like to use, then cut and assemble the pieces using wood glue. Then screw together other parts such as hinges or handles on both sides before sealing them in place.

Planter Box

Build a planter box to add life and color to your porch! This project is super simple. Cut the composite decking boards for the length that you would like, then use wood glue or adhesive along the edges of each piece before securing them together with nails. Once all pieces have been assembled, seal them in place by using a spray can and water.

A Bench

Building a bench is one of the easiest DIY projects you can do with decking boards. According to your desired length, assemble 12 to 18 boards and cut them in half using a circular saw. You may find it easier if you pre-drill holes before cutting so that the pieces are not too heavy for you when assembling. Use a drill or a nail gun to attach the boards.

Build a Birdhouse

A birdhouse is also an easy DIY project to do with composite decking boards if you have a little extra time and energy. Using your circular saw or the table saw, cut multiple of each side (top, bottom) to create 12 sides for your house. The size will depend on how big you want it – typically, anything between six and twelve inches is a good size. Stack the sides, alternating top, and bottom so that the edges are not showing on any side of your house. Drill holes into each corner to connect them with screws or nails, then drill a hole in one end for drainage.

Shelves

A bookshelf is a great DIY project to do with your composite decking boards. For the top shelves, cut one board in half and stack two pieces on each end of another to form an “L” shape for stability. Cut four more boards long enough so that they can be attached underneath these as supports (we recommend cutting them a bit longer than the width of your shelf). For lower shelves, cut two boards in half and stack them on each end of another to form an “L” shape for stability.

Cornhole Game

A cornhole game is a great way to get the family out and enjoy time together, whether outside or in your backyard. To make one, you will need two boards that are cut to about three feet long each – they do not have to be equal widths as it doesn’t matter for this project. Cut four small blocks of wood (about three inches long each) for the feet, and drill two holes at either end of both boards. For a decorative touch, you can round off the edges with sandpaper or an orbital sander before painting.

Doghouse

This is a great project to make for your pet or as a gift. You will need six boards cut in half and stacked on either end of another not to show the edges to create one yourself. You may want to pre-drill holes before cutting them down – it should be easier if they’re lighter when assembling. Drill holes into each corner, connect them with screws or nails, and then drill a hole in one end for drainage.

Raised Garden Bed

A raised garden bed is a great way to get more vegetables and fruits into your diet and also to decorate your outdoor space. To make one, you will need eight boards cut in half. Stagger each board on top of another so that the edges are not showing – this should create an “X” shape with all four sides visible before drilling holes and connecting them.

Trash Bin Enclosure

A trash bin enclosure is a great way to keep the smell of garbage contained while also making it easier for you to take out. To create one, use your circular saw or table saw and cut two boards in half (top), stack them on either end of another so that the edges are not showing—drill holes into each corner before connecting them with screws or nails.

Tips on How to Maintain your New Project Long Term

It is important to maintain your project for as long as you have it. This will help keep your DIY projects looking great and last longer! You can find many resources online with tips on how to care for composite decking boards, but a few things we recommend are using a sealant or wax monthly, keeping the area clean of debris that could stain the boards, and using a mild soap to clean them with water.

As you can see, there are many different DIY projects that you can do with composite decking boards. Whether these ideas inspire you to try your hand at a new project or give some direction on what type of board to consider for your next DIY endeavor, we hope it was helpful!