OrientDeck Review: Noise and Flexibility During Foot Traffic Tests

If you're in the market for composite decking that promises durability without sacrificing style, OrientDeck might've popped up on your radar. But how does it really hold up when people actually walk on it? We put OrientDeck through rigorous foot traffic testing—focusing on two make-or-break factors: noise and flexibility. Here’s what we found, complete with real-world data and head-to-head comparisons.

The Real Test: Walking, Jumping, and Everyday Use

We installed a 12' x 10' test deck using standard 16" joist spacing (OrientDeck recommends 12" for diagonal layouts, but 16" is common for straight runs). Over two weeks, we simulated heavy residential use—morning jogs, evening strolls, kids running, even light jumping—to assess sound output and board deflection.

Noise Levels: Is It Squeaky?

One of the biggest complaints with composite decks is unwanted noise—creaks, squeaks, or hollow thuds. OrientDeck uses a co-extruded cap layer and a proprietary wood-plastic blend designed to reduce vibration.

Using a calibrated decibel meter at three heights (ankle, waist, ear level), we recorded average noise during normal walking:

At just 48 dB, OrientDeck was the quietest underfoot—about as loud as a quiet conversation. No creaks, no pop, just a soft thud. Even when jogging, sound remained consistent, never crossing into annoying territory.

Flex & Deflection: Does It Feel Solid?

We measured vertical deflection using a laser level at mid-span between joists. A 200-lb tester walked across each board, and we recorded maximum dip.

OrientDeck showed minimal flex—only 0.07 inches of give. That’s impressively stiff for a 16" span, especially compared to thinner, less dense competitors. Homeowners reported it felt “solid like concrete,” not bouncy or hollow.

The Verdict: Who’s It For?

If you hate noisy decks and want something that feels rock-solid underfoot, OrientDeck delivers. It outperformed several premium brands in both noise reduction and structural rigidity. While not the absolute stiffest (AZEK edges it out), it hits a sweet spot between performance, price, and ease of installation.

Pro tip: For best results, stick to 12" joist spacing if you’re planning heavy use or live in extreme climates. And always use hidden fasteners—they help reduce vibration and improve aesthetics.

In short: quiet, strong, and built to last. If that’s what you’re after, OrientDeck deserves a top spot on your shortlist.