Why Aluminium Subframes Are The Future Of Decking: Decking Joists

It provides more space to entertain guests, relax and enjoy the fresh air. However, building a deck involves several components, one of which is the deck tie rods.

You may be wondering "what is a bridge?" And most of all, why is aluminium subframe the future of flooring?

How Do Decking Joists Work?

Aluminium decking joists are an essential part of any deck project, providing the structural support needed to create a stable and durable deck. These crossbeams, usually made of wood, steel or aluminium, are placed parallel to each other and perpendicular to the floorboards.

The main purpose of deck beams is to evenly distribute the weight and load of the deck, ensuring that it remains structurally strong and can support the weight of people, furniture and other objects. They serve as the frame on which the floor boards are installed, providing a stable surface for walking and relaxing.

Proper beam spacing and balance is critical to deck integrity. The spacing between the struts determines the stability and strength of the deck, preventing sagging or bouncing when weight is applied. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions or consult a professional to determine the appropriate spacing based on the material used and the intended use of the floor.

Levelling is also important to create a flat surface for the deck plates. Irregular bracing can lead to uneven deck surfaces, affecting not only the aesthetics but also the safety and stability of the deck.

When it comes to the types of floor beams available, the most commonly used material is wood. Timber beams are readily available, relatively inexpensive, and can be easily cut and shaped to meet specific project requirements. However, they are susceptible to problems such as rotting, warping and pest infestation, which can affect the lifespan and structural integrity of the floor.

In recent years, alternatives to traditional wooden beams have become popular, including steel and aluminium. Steel beams add strength and durability, making them suitable for floors that require longer spans or are subject to heavy loads. However, steel beams can be heavier, more expensive, and may require additional protective coatings to prevent rust and corrosion.

Aluminium beams have emerged as a promising alternative to wood and steel. They are lightweight but exceptionally sturdy, making them easier to handle and install. Aluminium is resistant to rotting, warping and pests, ensuring a longer life for the deck structure. Additionally, aluminium beams are often made from recycled materials, making them an eco-friendly choice. 

Traditional Wood Joists Have Issues

Traditional wooden beams have long been a popular choice due to their availability and familiarity. However, they introduce a host of common problems that can have a significant impact on the life and performance of a flooring project. Understanding these issues is crucial to understanding why aluminium subframes are becoming the future of floor beams.

One of the main challenges with traditional wooden beams is their susceptibility to rotting and warping. Wood is a natural material that tends to rot when exposed to moisture, especially in outdoor environments. Over time, water can penetrate the wood fibres, causing rotting and structural instability. In addition, fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause wooden beams to warp, resulting in uneven and unstable deck surfaces.

Another limitation of wooden beams is their maintenance requirements. Wood requires regular sealing, staining and treatment to protect the wood from moisture damage and to maintain its structural integrity. This maintenance can be time and money consuming, as it must be done periodically to keep the wood's appearance and prevent deterioration. Failure to properly maintain wooden beams can accelerate their deterioration, resulting in a shorter lifespan and the need to replace them early.

Fortunately, these problems can be effectively solved by using aluminium subframes for flooring projects. Aluminium is a very durable and weather-resistant material that is inherently resistant to rotting, warping, and corrosion. Unlike wood, aluminium does not absorb moisture, keeping it from rotting. It remains stable and retains structural integrity even in extreme weather conditions, ensuring a longer life for the flooring structure.

In addition, aluminium subframes offer significant benefits in terms of maintenance requirements. Unlike wood, they do not require sealing, staining, or regular treatment to protect them from moisture damage. Aluminum's natural resistance to corrosion and decay eliminates the need for ongoing maintenance, saving time and money in the long run. This low-maintenance feature makes aluminium subframes an attractive choice for homeowners and contractors.

Using aluminium subframes for decking has advantages. 

Aluminium subframe has become popular in the flooring world due to its many advantages over traditional wooden beams. These innovative structures effectively solve the problems commonly associated with wooden beams while offering unmatched longevity, durability, low maintenance requirements and eco-friendly features.

1. Solve wooden beam problems: One of the main disadvantages of traditional wooden beams is that they are prone to rotting, warping and rotting due to exposure to moisture, insects and other elements. The aluminium subframe offers a superior alternative thanks to its high resistance to these problems. Aluminium will not rot, warp or degrade over time, providing a stable and durable foundation for your deck. This inherent strength makes aluminium subframes ideal for outdoor environments where humidity and weather can adversely affect wooden beams.

1. Longevity and Durability: When it comes to durability, aluminium subframes outperform wooden beams. Aluminium is a hard material known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to corrosion. It can withstand heavy loads and human traffic without compromising its structural integrity. This durability extends the life of your deck, reducing the need for frequent replacement or repairs often required with wooden beams. With aluminium subframes, you can enjoy a sturdy and durable deck for years.

1. Low-maintenance nature: Deck maintenance can be a time- and labour-intensive task, especially when it comes to maintaining wooden braces. Wood requires regular sealing, staining and painting to protect it from moisture and prevent rotting. In contrast, aluminium subframes are virtually maintenance-free. They do not require staining, sealing or protective handling. A simple routine cleaning with mild soap and water is usually enough to keep them in top condition. This low-maintenance feature of the aluminium subframe not only saves you time and effort, but also eliminates the ongoing costs associated with maintaining wooden beams.

1. Eco-friendly choice: In an era where sustainability is increasingly concerned, choosing eco-friendly materials for construction projects is becoming more and more important. The aluminium subframes provide an eco-friendly option for flooring. Aluminium is a highly recyclable material that can be reused without affecting its quality. By choosing aluminium subframes, you are helping to reduce deforestation and the need for new wood products, thereby helping to conserve forests and conserve natural resources. 

Cost evaluation 

Cost is an important factor to consider when choosing the right floor beams for your project. Traditional wooden beams have been a popular choice for many years due to their affordability. However, it is important to evaluate the long-term investment and savings that come with choosing an aluminium subframe.

At first glance, traditional wooden beams seem like the most cost-effective option. They are readily available and typically have a lower initial cost than aluminium subframes. However, it is essential to look beyond the initial cost and consider the long-term benefits that aluminium subframes offer.

Consider the initial investment for aluminium subframes. While they may have a higher initial cost than wooden beams, they offer outstanding value for money. Aluminium subframes are known for their durability and longevity, significantly outperforming traditional wooden beams. They are highly resistant to rotting, warping and insects, ensuring your deck will maintain structural integrity for years to come.

In addition, aluminium subframes require minimal maintenance compared to wooden beams. Wooden beams often require regular treatment, sealants and inspection to prevent rotting and rotting. The aluminium subframes, on the other hand, are virtually maintenance-free, saving you time and money in the long run. Additionally, the reduction in maintenance costs associated with aluminium subframes contributes to their overall cost-effectiveness.

In terms of durability, the aluminium subframe is unmatched. They can withstand a variety of weather conditions, including heavy rain, extreme heat, and freezing temperatures, without warping or deterioration. This durability ensures that your deck remains stable and secure for years, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.

While the initial investment for aluminium subframes may be higher, the long-term savings and benefits they provide far outweigh the costs. Their durability and low maintenance requirements mean you'll save money on future repairs and replacements. Additionally, their long lifespan adds value to your property and can even increase its resale value. 

Conclusion

If you are planning a composite decking project, consider using aluminium subframes. They offer a variety of advantages that make them a cost-effective, sustainable and eco-friendly choice. With little to no maintenance and a long lifespan, they're quickly becoming the future of flooring.