Composite Decking
Questions
There are a variety of looks available in synthetic decking.
It is not a ‘plastic-y’ looking material like it once was.
Over the past 5 years, manufacturers have realized that
appearance is very important when deciding which synthetic decking
products to use. A deep wood grain embossed into the surface of the
boards gives it a wood appearance. This has been adopted by many of
the manufacturers in the market today. Other manufacturers brush the
surface for a raised grain effect. Some manufacturers are even
streaking colors through the materials to resemble mineral streaks
and color variations.
There are generally 5 separate categories for synthetic decks. There
are two types of wood & plastic composites, one is known as a
polyethylene composite and the other is polypropylene composite.
Polyethylene composites are made of recycled plastics that are
softer (ex. clear milk jugs) and polypropylene composites are made
of recycled plastics that are hard (ex. key boards), 100% plastic
such as vinyl or polyethylene/HDPE (High Density Polyethylene),
metal extrusion products, and vinyl membrane products.
Composite: Polypropylene Plastic & Wood Mix
These materials are usually 50% +
recycled. They are made from Polypropylene (Hard plastic
like keyboards and TV's) and fine wood particles (wood flower). It
is manufactured under heat and pressure to encapsulate the wood in
the plastic. CorrectDeck Brand materials contain a UV inhibitor that
is resistant to fade as well as a resistance to mold, mildew and
grease stains. Most manufacturers produce a surface with wood grain
embosses into it. Polypropylene composite will retain its shape when
you bend it to make curved railings and benches. It
is warranted for a
period of twenty five (25) years from the date of installation
against rot, decay, splitting, checking, splintering, or termite
damage under normal conditions of decking use and exposure.
Manufacturers:
CorrectDeck
Composite: Polyethylene Plastic & Wood Mix
This material has a deep embossed
grain, created by a compression molding process. These materials
contain both partially recycled polyethylene plastic and wood fiber.
They have a matching railing system. The decking carries a 25-year
limited warranty and offers four natural colors – Cedar, Redwood,
Weathered Wood and Cape Cod Grey. Boards are designed to usually
weather to a lighter shade within the first 12 weeks of exposure to
the environment. Its slip-resistance that exceeds ADA accessibility
guidelines, ICC and BOCA/SBCCI approved – Independent industry
performance standards.
Manufacturers:
EverGrain &
Trex
100% Polyethylene
These materials are recycled #2 plastic,
usually milk jugs. They come in many different colors and even
custom colors with larger purchases. While some manufacturers
produce hollow boards, the majority are solid and mimic lumber
closely in dimension and appearance.
Surprisingly, this material works very much like wood. It can be
cut, routed and drilled very easily. In some cases the boards also
have a wood grain pattern embossed into the surface. Some are for
looks, while some also help with slip resistance. These materials
have a UV inhibitor to help protect against color fading and
ultimately plastic breakdown.
Manufacturers:
BearBoard
Aluminum
Aluminum has the least amount of expansion and contraction of all
the man-made materials. They have a powder-coat paint finish. They
also come in a few colors ( white, tan, gray). You can use a carbide
saw to cut it and the edges should be filed down smooth. The
manufacturer makes this product in an interlocking profile so there
are no surface nails or screws showing. There are many powder-coated
aluminum railing manufacturers that offer a glass insert or a 1/2"
baluster for high visibility through the railings.
Manufacturers:
LockDry
Laminated Vinyl Membrane
This is a
laminated
membrane consisting of a heavy-duty polyester fabric encapsulated
between two vinyl films. Finish thickness of the membrane is about
50 mm. This product is perfect to keep the area below the deck dry
and a low maintenance option for the surface of the deck.
Manufacturers:
DeckRite
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