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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