Composite Decking

I am building a new deck and I am considering Weyerhaeuser Choice deck & Trex. Any suggestions vs these and good IPE wood

Kim,
Uh, I think I said it all in the above column. You might read it again.

Tim.,
So which composite deck manufacturer responded to your questions?
Joe

Joe,
It was Louisiana Pacific.

Thank you for the information Tim. I own a large decking construction Company in South Africa and we are at the verge of starting using composite decking made in China. I will certainly approach with great caution.

Sam,
You are most welcome. Be sure it has some type of internal preservative and anti-fungal chemical.

Tim, In 2000 we installed a decking material called "E Wood" on a large front porch. To say the least, we have had nothing but problems with the product. It shrinks so much that we have 1+ inch gaps between the boards. These are now not secure to the supports. The decking is extremely slippery when wet to the point that you have to be holding onto a railing or you will take a fall. It is curling at various places, etc. We have reinstalled the decking three times, with the same results. We've contacted the selled (Home Depot) and the distributor (Cascade McFarland) but have yet to receive much help. At the last communication with Cascade we were told that we would just have to live with it.
Have you ever heard of a recall or other actions regarding this horrible decking product? We are open to any suggestions. Thank You, Jill

Jill,
I have not heard a thing about any recalls on this, but I have not been actively searching. Do an intensive Wed search. My guess is that you will discover that your purchase price was a tuition payment to the College of Hard Knocks.

I amagine that trex was one that did not respond.Have you heard of any site that gives recalls on these products?

Jason,
You may be correct...... Just Google recall notices.

I am considering composite for my 750 sq ft deck and was hoping you could give me your opinion on Timber Tech. Have you heard much on this product? I look up Trex and Correct Deck and find all sorts of problems about mold, etc. I do not find much about Timber Tech.

I purchased some 2x6 hollow decking, about 7 years ago and as I now need some more of the same kind.. I find the type hard to find. Please advise..... There are two groves on each plank.
Thanks Per

Katie,
Did you read the column above?????? Have you asked the Timber Tech people what preservative is in their product????

How is EON decking? The deck is not solid like Trex. Why is that? When I called they said it was for expansion purpose. Is this true?

Amy,
I can't answer that. My guess is that they just had a different idea in mind with respect to manufacturing.

Can you save me some time and tell me which manufacturer/brand contains the zinc borate??

What covers your deck at home.

Jenn,
Louisiana Pacific.

Gary,
I don't have my own wood deck.

please let me know any new info good or bad. I am thinking about importing this type of product to latin america for use on some new housing developments under construction at this very moment. I want to be sure I have good product to give them the best result. thank you very much. Steve

What about decking called Crosstimbers? Any information on them?

Thanks

Shawn,
I have none. When you contacted them, what preservative did they say they used?

Tim,

Has there been an update to the white papers you referenced?

ChoiceDek's website states that they use no preservatives. From reading your article, this would rule them out as an option. Has anything changed since your research to modify your recommendation?

Thanks,

Ken H.

Ken,
I have had no time to poll the manufacturers. You know what to ask, so try to find one that has the borate chemical.

I am currently considering a composite wood deck & will take you comments above seriously when deciding what products to use. I have heard several times that composite decking is very hot in the summer...to the point you can't walk on it in bare feet and it is even uncomfortable in shoes. Is this true? My back yard faces the west, so I get a lot of afternoon sun. I'd hate to put all that time & expense into building a deck I can't stand to use.

Marsha,
Great question!!! You know what I always tell people? Test it......

Go buy an 8-foot length of the material. Cut it into four 2-foot pieces. Fasten it to two 2x4s that mimic deck joists. Place the panel in the middle of your deck. Report back here with your findings at 5:00 pm on a blazing hot summer day when there is not a cloud in the sky and the test panel has been in direct sun for hours.

HI TIM,
I AN HANDICAPPED AND AM CONSIDERING BUILDING A RAMP OF COMPOSITE DECKING..WOULD YOU CONSIDER THIS A GOOD PRODUCT FOR THIS PROJECT?
I AM LOOKING AT TREX AT HOME DEPOT OR ONE AT LOWES..CAN YOU ADVISE ME WHAT PRODUCT IS BETTER FOR THIS PROJECT AND DO YOU THINK IT IS STRONG ENOUGH FOR A MOTORIZED WHEEL CHAIR TO USE ON A REGULAR BASIS..
THANKS FOR YOU TIME.
SINCERELY
JAN DIOLOSA

Jan,
I would read this column again and then do your due diligence to see if Trex contains the chemicals needed to treat the wood.

Tim: Iam thinking of using a product called Brock Decking. Do you know of it or have any experience with it compared to the composite decking.

Pri,
I have not yet installed that one. Did you check to verify if it has a wood preservative?

I have a customer that would like no wood whatsoever in the building of his deck. He is open to composite decking, but wants no wood in the substructure. Do you have any recommended products that I could use for this project??? thanks, jason

How do you feel about 100% pvc decking? It seems it might hold up better than the composites.

Tim,
I noticed that Louisiana Pacific had sold their composite deck manufacturing. Do you know if the new company maintained the same product anti-fungal protection?

Tim,
In 2002 I built a deck with Geodeck material. In 2007 I started to notice slight discoloration/fading and molding, then came the worst. My deck boards actually began falling apart (degrading), they just crumbled! Well after submitting a warranty claim with the manufacturer (and receiving an approval letter for coverage), the company ceased operations and I never received a penny from them. The total estimate is $15K to replace my deck. I've contacted other individuals who have had bad experiences with this product and there is a class action lawsuit pending. The website is www.geodeckclassaction.com to submit a complaint and join in the lawsuit. I know there are hundreds/thousands of others out there who need help so I hope this is informational to anyone viewing. Please consider making this public information avavilable through a newspaper column...THANKS!

im looking to install a large composite deck in the ny area very confused on which decking i should buy or not buy please help

Tim: We are in the process of installing a composite deck with materials from a company called Monarch. I just read a blurb from TOH, and Monarch did not get a good review. Do you have any experience with this material? Any comments? Thanks!

So Louisiana Pacific was the only manufacturer that responded with concise, written answers to your questions. Is there any chance that we could have a look? I'd also be very interested to know your opinion of their responses. Did they have some type of internal preservative and anti-fungal chemical in their product? Also, would you recommend sealing this product when installed? Thanks!

As Mark Harris noted, it seems that Louisiana-Pacific has indeed sold the rights to their Weatherbest decking products to Fiber Composites, LLC. (Afraid of being sued?)

http://www.lpcorp.com/globalutilities/lpweatherbestinformation.aspx

Knowing that, are you privy to any useful information on this new company? They claim that they'll maintain "business as usual," in their article, but we all know that isn't always the case. Do you still believe the Weatherbest decking material to be a superior grade material? Are there any new decking materials currently available that could potentially be a better choice?

Hello,
The staff at my local Lowe's store informed me that if I install composite decking in a very sunny spot, the deck material temperature can reach up to 140 degree's F.

Is this really possible, for the Northeast US?

Thanks,

I'm glad I found your site. I'm about to spend several thousand dollars replacing my wood decking. Since composite decking seems to have problems just like wood. What would suggest for material instead off composite? 100% plastic or vynal?

Tim,

I believe CorrectDeck CX also uses the zinc borate (they call it MicroBan). Are you saying WeatherBest is the only one that replied? Did you inquire of CorrectDeck? I know, however, that even with this additive they do not warranty against mold or mildew.

Tim,

I am using composite decking material to build above the ground garden boxes. I have heard that there may be concern with preservatives leaching from the decking material into the soil beds adn eventually the graden produce. Is this a concern?

AsktheBuilder,
Did the Louisiana Pacific product contain zinc borate?

It does not appear that tim is responding to this thread any longer. I fear it may be dead.

Does anyone know anything about Azek decking material which has no wood products in it?

Tim, Am planning to replace my PTW deck and would like to use composite material. Would like to use recycled material but am concerned about quality assurance. Have read your comments about chemical treatment of wood fiber filler to prevent rot but remain skeptical. One product, AZDEK, claims to be PVC with "beneficated flax additives". Flax is organic. Same problem? Any technical material available like ASTM to sift out the "peddler talk"? Thanks for info.

I just installed a new composite deck and someone told me that there was a self sticking strip that matches the deck color that can lay acreoss the seem where the boards meet. All boards meet in a straight line, so one long strip should hide the seem. Home Depot and Lowes knows nothing of it.

We are planning to put quartzite slate on a covered deck. What do we need to use under the slate? also, how what do we use around the wood upright posts we have on our deck (timber frame style home)?

Do you recomend Procell composite decking?

I am looking for a composite decking like that of an old time wrap around porch, it needs to be tongue and grooved is there any products out there. If not can this product be plained with tongue and groove chamfurers. and what kind of expansion will if have

I have a multi-level deck that I built back in 1991. The bones are pressure treated lumber, all above ground, on concrete sona-tube piers. The decking and all visual elements are red cedar. there is good air flow under the deck as it is raised above ground anywhere from two feet to five feet with good circulation.

I was given bum information back then by the cedar supplier who told me not to space the decking because it was still wet wood and would contract upon drying out. Here we are 17 years later and the wood never did shrink. Years of making sure the joints were constantly kept free of debris by a combo of vacuuming and pressure washing has resulted in a losing battle. Numerous stain preps and reapplication probably prolonged its life but not by much in my estimation. Most of the deck is rotting at the touch points whre no air gaps ever developed even though stain was loaded here, particularly on the ends of the deck boards.

A few of the worst deck boards were replaced at a significantly higher price than I am prepared to pay, so I am now at a crossroads. The rest of the decking appears to be rotting out at a consistent rate, as in almost all at once.

I was going to replace all of the deck boards with some sort of composite, but the more I read the less enthused I have become. Unless I can get a bulk pallet discount on cedar, I may have to retreat to using pressure treated lumber.

From all I have researched and read, it appears that composite materials are NOT the way to go. Has anyone had good luck with ANY of these products? I have no issue with direct replacement with no modifications as my deck is overbuilt with the deck span distances more than adequate for even the thinnest composite material. The wear, tear, and performance levels of what appear to be ALL composites seems to be extremely disappointing.

I will go with a price premium for the best in composite as long as I am guaranteed long life, good looks, and reasonable maintenance. Or, should I stick with wood decking, period?

We are in the process of replacing a Rhino Deck (Mastermark Plastics) and would like to use the Timbertech products. How do they hold up with a northern exposure (almost full and constant sun) in a northern Ohio climate? The Rhino Deck molded, warped, and split.

Consumer Reports did an evaluation on Deck Materials and it appears that they rated plastic decking over composite material. Overall products like Deck Lok, Eon Classic, and Azek with Procell seemed to be solid choices. Your best bet when using these products is to over engineer the joist spans as these product seem to be slightly weak in the stiffness and sagging categories. Mildew resistance is high as is resitance to color change, slipping and staining. Cost is, on average, about $100 to $150 more than composite for the same square footage.

Of course the ultimate in performance all the way around, if you can tolerate the look, feel, and "sound" of aluminum is Lockdry which is a total aluminum product with solid high marks in all categories

I would like to find a composite decking material that can be used on an existing deck(structurally sound yet unsightly) to sheath or cover the deck. The deck planks are 2x6 redwood that was not neatly installed and not maintained for several years. The result is a lot of rough appearance due to errant saw cuts, screw holes and splits in the decking.

So what type of wood do you recommend for a deck? I am in the early planning stages of building a 45' by 16' deck. It will be about 30 inches off the ground.

I installed a rooftop deck with P.T. framing and Eon decking late last year on my Chicago townhome. I am quite pleased with it overall. The material does get pretty hot from solar gain and you can either hose it down occasionally or wear flip-flops. There is also a static charge that develops from walking on the product but it's no worse than being inside a cold climate home and walking on carpet. The decking feels solid underfoot and has shown no signs of fading (although it is just getting into it's second year). I would not hesitate from recommending it to friends and family. I am a home inspector here in Chicago and have seen a few examples of the Eon decking that has been around several years and they all still looked good.

Doug,

Go with pressure treated lumber for all of the structural elements. Get deck design info to select properly sized materials for spans, deck load, etc. For decking, trim, railings, etc. you can go with pressure treated (cheapest) or choose a cedar ($$$) variety. Just be aware that the pt or cedar decking with a severe southern exposure will need to be cleaned and stained at least every two years, if a less severe exposure you may be able to get away with less maintenance. Vertical elements usually hold up longer, sometimes twice to three times as long as horizontal elements before needing cleaning and staining. Make sure to leave adequate space between deck boards and if you have a lot of trees and vegetation around make sure to keep those spaces clear of debris that might tend to build up like moist cake in the spacings after a while and promote rot.

I have not yet tried other decking material but I am leaning to Eon Classic. Another poster seems to vouch for it before my post. Some of these wood substitute products seem like they tend to sag or have less stiffness, therefore plan accordingly when laying out your basic structural elements. You may want to double up on them and halve the span distances with composite or plastic decking choices.

Tim,

In 2001 I had a TimberTek deck built. Seven years later I have noticed no deterioration in the material. I do, however, notice what appears to be a spoty black discoloration on the surface. I tried applying Stain Solver to it with minimal removal of the black. Since Stain Solver didn't work, I don't know if anything else will. Do you?

Charles,

Are the stains possibly mildew or are they caused maybe by grease stains from a grille or some other spill? Supposedly, of all of the composite materials that Consumer Reports tested, TimberTech had a superior mildew resistant grade.

My company imports composite decking from a number of countries and with stringent quality control and lab tests, we so far found that the best ranking product is without a doubt Correct Deck from Correct Builders Maine USA.

rgds

I have had a composite deck and railing system made from Evergrain material by TAMKO Building Products. Have you heard any comments about this material? The deck is two years old and the deck planking seems OK. However the railing is cracking and actually looks spongy in places. Tamko tells me I have received a bad batch and that they will replace the material under warranty. The new material will have a ten year warranty. Would you advise forgetting the replacement Evergrain railing kits and go with cedar, etc.?

We are in the process of building a 17x31 ft deck using Lockdry Aluminum decking. Has anyone used this product? Suggestions, comments would be much appreciated. It will be delivered next week!

I live in Costa Rica and only known provider of composite decking is Latitudes. Do you have any experience/knowledge of this manufacturer?

Tim
i just built an outdoor kitchen using a pressure treated frame. I used the composite decking for the counter top and the trim work on the front and sides. now i'm wondering if it's ok for food to come in contact with it? I tried searching the web for others that have done this with no luck.. thanks.

i am looking into yakima brand decking the price is a little hard to believe is there anything you can say about this product

I have composite decking and have my gas grill on the deck. While grilling, grease splattered out and has marked the deck. What can I use to clean the grease off the deck? Thank you.

Tim,
found your article of great interest as I have a deck needing repairs. Research on composite decking has been discouraging at best. Lousiana Pacific is definitely being responsible; this recall notice is only 2 weeks old:
++++++++
http://remodeling.hw.net/industry-news.asp?sectionID=149&articleID=752660

By Victoria Markovitz

Louisiana-Pacific issued a product advisory today for composite decking materials purchased after Jan. 1, 2005, noting that some of the products can prematurely deteriorate and break, posing a risk of injury to consumers.

The advisory pertains to decking and railing sold as WeatherBest, Veranda, and ABTCo made by LP at its Meridian, Idaho, facility, the company says in a press release also issued today. Variations in the manufacturing process caused the deterioration, the release says.
~~~~
The Web site is www.deckingnotice.com.
++++
Since I live in Cedar country it may just be best to stay with that, splinters and all..
cheers,

So what is the best decking?

What was the company called that replied to your questionaire as the only ones?

Hi,
I'm curious to know out of the 15 composite decking mfg's which was the "one" that responded back to your questions. Last year I had a huge Trex deck installed. Beautiful the 1st year but towards the end of the summer it started to accumulate little spots, so this spring I cleaned the deck and now summer is over the spots are back and even more so. Looks like mold? My deck is the whole back side of my house, upper level full sun. Anyone else running into this situation.. I have other issues with the Trex material but that’s another email.

Trex: 37,000 deck claims and counting….

www.forbes.com/forbes/2008/0721/056.html>
21/056.html>

Have you heard anything about Rhino Deck?

Several complaints filed of severe mold problems that grow over all parts of the decking including balusters and railing. (www.complaints.com)

I have had great luck with Veranda from Home Depot.

I installed eWood in 2000 as well and had similar problems. I even had one of their reps come by and confirm that the deck was slippery (although my biggest problem was with snow on the deck, it was like an ice skating rink). I pulled it out last year and re-decked with Trex.

Tim, I installed my decking 1 1/2 yrs ago in Florida. I used Crosstimbers by Elk And so far everything is great. Have you heard any negatives of this company's product and what about any futher maintenance I can do besides the manufacturers recommendation. Thanks

We installed an Eon deck in November 2006. The material was purchased from Home Depot. It came with a 25 year warranty. It hasn't been 25 months and we've filed 2 claims already. The 1st incident was April 2007 - we discovered 11 boards that had long raised welts across them. We thought that a garden hose laying across the deck for a couple of days in the hot sun had heated up water in the hose & caused the welting on the boards. Eon reimbursed us. The 11 boards were replaced Aug 08. It took my husband four hours to replace them because of the hidden fastener clips & having to slide other deck boards out 1st to get to the damaged ones. The new boards were down less than 48 hours and new welts appeared again on 8 of those 11 boards. The culprit? The deck was built on the southwest side of my house. The sun is reflecting off a window & damaging the deck. There's now multiple welting on those boards as the sun gradually changes it's angle over the last 3 months. I also have 2 eight foot sliding doors going out on the deck. The stationary panels have a screen door slid in front of them so no damage there, but in front of the moving panels of both sliding doors the sun reflection has also caused damage to an addit'l 7 boards - they are splitting open. We filed a 2nd claim. Eon wants to send us 8 boards, pay us $500 labor, & have us sign a Release Form. Anderson Window Company states treating our window and doors will void the warranty on them. And another issue-we built approx. 12' x 12' gazebo on one corner of the deck & used 12 Eon fence post sleeves to cover the treated lumber support posts that hold up the gazebo roof. Nine out of 12 of these post sleeves have cracks or busted out places at the bottom - apparently from the contraction and expansion this past winter. My husband did the whole project so no labor costs but we have $9308 invested in a deck and gazebo that is not going to last 25 years.

I used bald cypress lumber to side and deck my new home with the belief that it would not rot. I have seen some places with ground contact that show signs of dry rot and shrinkage. I have sprayed Borada in the hopes of stemming the progress of this scary situation. What can you tell me?

Updated info - including antifungal addition to decking material - Correct Deck CX has the zinc borate added.
http://www.compositesworld.com/articles/wood-filled-composites-jump-off-the -deck.aspx

Dear Tim,

A web search revealed that Louisiana Pacific no longer makes composite decking materials and, in fact, is conducting a recall of their decking products. Do you or any of your readers have any positive info on currently available composite decking products and manufacturers? I'm still looking to build a 16X16 deck.

Thanks!
Bruce
Santa Fe, NM

It is my understanding that any mold inhibitor (ie. zinc borate) that is exposed on the surface of a board last only a short time. It may be in the core of the board but when exposed to the elements breaks down and the wood fibers that are exposed can grow mold. Do you know if that is correct?

I spent last summer researching various composite, aluminum, vinyl/pvc, and wood decking materials. My research narrowed my potential choices to Western Red Cedar(cheapest/nice look) Timbertech composite(best of composites/nicer look), Azek(pvc/vinyl)and possibly Tandeck(polyethylene)or Quadro(pvc/vinyl). The problem I had w/ most composites(besides cost) was fading and poor color choices. Then I decided on Timbertech...until I decided to go out to the lumber yard(weather exposed)and saw some degree of fading but worse was how easily it scratched. Had I installed this high priced product I would have been very upset w/ the scratching. This caused me to postpone my decision until Spring 2009 after further research. I'm not there yet, but leaning toward Azek and checking out the lower cost Quadro. If I'm still not convinced of the composite/vinyl products I will just go w/ a good quality Cedar deck and accept the maintenance/shorter life issues. Would appreciate comments/personal experience. Anyone have problems w/ the pricier hidden deck fastener system?

Dear Tim,

When I called today I was told that Louisiana Pacific no longer makes composite decking. Do you know if that is true ? Thanks Jim Biolsi

Tim: I wrote you "offline" several months ago and never got a response so I'll comment here. To others, full disclosure: I work for a company that makes composite decking. I won't mention our brand; I don't want to appear to be shilling. But I can't let the above column go unchallenged.

Tim,you do your readers a disservice encouraging them to consider only composites with certain additives. There is not just one way to make a sound, long-lasting composite deck board. There are products that have had many years of excellent performance without the use of Zinc Borate. I respect your reference to Forest Product Journal. They do good, unbiased scientific work. But the reports you cite are from 2002. As with any industry there have been giant leaps in R&D since then and composites today have little resemblance to the materials they tested.

You are correct to urge intense Web searches. Research will indicate which companies have good track records and which companies don't.

Regarding the survey you took: Your finding it "disturbing" that some companies didn't respond draws a negative conclusion about those companies and their products that is off the mark. Only one company answered it and the inference you'd have the reader make is they must be a quality provider for doing so. That one company sold its composite business shortly after issuing a "product advisory" warning about failures due to rot. The company that bought the business dropped the brand soon after the sale.

Finally, your comment about composite makers "spewing out" advertising is telling. Why so negative? Does Tide "spew out" detergent ads? Please don't tar an entire industry because a few companies had product failures.

I find your site illuminating in many regards and I admire your knowledge of the industry. But I think this column needs updating. Thank you.

Tim: I wrote you "offline" several months ago and never got a response so I'll comment here. To others, full disclosure: I work for a company that makes composite decking. I won't mention our brand; I don't want to appear to be shilling. But I can't let the above column go unchallenged.

Tim,you do your readers a disservice encouraging them to consider only composites with certain additives. There is not just one way to make a sound, long-lasting composite deck board. There are products that have had many years of excellent performance without the use of Zinc Borate. I respect your reference to Forest Product Journal. They do good, unbiased scientific work. But the reports you cite are from 2002. As with any industry there have been giant leaps in R&D since then and composites today have little resemblance to the materials they tested.

You are correct to urge intense Web searches. Research will indicate which companies have good track records and which companies don't.

Regarding the survey you took: Your finding it "disturbing" that some companies didn't respond draws a negative conclusion about those companies and their products that is off the mark. Only one company answered it and the inference you'd have the reader make is they must be a quality provider for doing so. That one company sold its composite business shortly after issuing a "product advisory" warning about failures due to rot. The company that bought the business dropped the brand soon after the sale.

Finally, your comment about composite makers "spewing out" advertising is telling. Why so negative? Does Tide "spew out" detergent ads? Please don't tar an entire industry because a few companies had product failures.

I find your site illuminating in many regards and I admire your knowledge of the building trades. But I think this column needs updating. Thank you.

So.....if you were putting in composite decking in the mountains of NC what would you put in?????

Andy: Good question. Let's look at the pros and cons of each type of decking:
Pressure treated (PT) -
Pros:
The economical choice. Less than half the cost of cedar or redwood and about 1/4 the cost of a good composite. It's the real thing: wood. Cons: Maintenance. Although it will be perfectly serviceable for decades you may not like how it looks after a few years if you don't seal it at least every other year. Also, a lack of colors. Some have a tint but the choices are limited. And that fades too.

Cedar/redwood/hardwoods -
Pros: The real thing: Wood. Tropical hardwoods (Ipe, others) are especially good looking.
Cons: Ipe can easily be 4-6X the cost of PT and cedar and redwood are 2x and more. There is less heartwood in today's cedar and redwood so the protection from nature is not what it once was. You need to seal these two to keep them looking good. You can let ipe go gray and leave it. The stuff is nice no matter what you do with it. But bring money. (Also, it's difficult to work. Very dense and hard. You'll go thru a lot of blades and you must predrill for fastening.) Lack of colors in these choices too.

Composites - Pros:
Less maintenance than wood. Less fading than wood (some brands). Won't rot, warp or splinter. (Some brands have had some problems with this, however. Buy from companies that have a good track record. Do research first.) Important: "Less maintenance" does not necessarily mean "no maintenance". If conditions exist that promote mold - the decking surface is heavily shaded, faces north and gets wet often - you may get mold on the surface. Of course you'd get mold on any surface - concrete, pavers, wood, PVC, aluminum - given that situation. Composites come in a number of colors you can use to complement a home's decor.
Cons: About 4X the cost of PT, depending on the brand. It's not "real wood". Some brands come close, others don't.

PVC - Pros:
It'll last for decades and takes a pretty good beating, although it can collect stains, depending on the surface texture.
Cons: It's very expensive and doesn't look much like wood, if at all. For this reason PVC decking is used more for commercial applications than the other types of decking.
If you're looking for me to recommend a brand of composites in this forum you're out of luck. I have a preference, but since I work for a company that sells composite decking (PT, too), listing my brand here would take the legitimacy out of what I say above. My goal with these posts is to provide info on the category, not to sell.

I am thinking about Veranda decking. The idiots who built the current deck used 24" OC for the stringers. Do you see any real problems with that spacing? We do almost nothing but walk on the decks to get from one place to another, and we are both under 200 pounds. :)

Thanks.

Gary: Composite decking is designed for joist spacing of 16" on center or less. Same for 5/4 pressure treated wood decking. If you want to put composite down, and Veranda is a great choice by the way, you'll need to add intermediate joists.

Dick Gauthier

There are also all vinyl decks which don't have the problem of composites, can come in grain finish and in low gloss.
Tim, my client makes all vinyl. Don't you want to learn about that alternative?

Tim,

I was considering getting Trex for replacing my deck but after reading all the problems associated with those types of products I had to rethink my deck. I was wondering if I were to put down some cement board and then some slate tile on the existing wood deck if there were some tips you might have or if it's a bad idea to lay tile on a wood deck. I just purchased the home and the previous owner painted the deck which is starting to wear and peel in some places. It is not covered so it is exposed to all of Washington states elements. what do you suggest?

Any opinion on Correct Deck products?

Why not consider all vinyl versus composite? There is low sheen vinyl with a wood grain appearance without the problem assoicated with composite.

Eric: There are a few composite decking makers that have had some quality problems. There are many more that have not. Rather than removing a whole category of products from your list of choices you should talk to your local lumber dealers and decking contractors about getting the names of brands that have performed. Re the slate idea: think of the weight of a slate surface. You may have to double up the joists.

Dick Gauthier

Better check Louisiana Pacific website--they just had a massive recall in May of their decking material!

I am about to install a composite deck. I have only seen two products, so far. Trex and Element. Any info on either
thanks, Len Dostillio

Thanks for all the info.I have a couple of questions . Does the veranda decking that you mentioned contain the preservatives you talked about? Also how does it stand up to scratching ? We have large dogs.

We are looking at replacing the deck
around our pool with a composite deck. Can you please recommend what
you would use. I worry about both mold and rot but I tired of sanding
and sealing and slivers with our
wholmanized deck. I have found that our current wood deck is also starting to ooze sap in spots. Thank
you for your time.
Debbie Tekampe
teak5@aol.com

This article was very helpful as we have been considering composite decking for our porch. Now, well, not so sure this is the way to go.

I am planning to replace the porch on the front of my house. It has the orginal concrete platform & step under the porch. Can I somehow attach the decking to the concrete? I don't have the strength to bust it out.

Thanks

I am planning to build a deck with composite material. Do you know of someplace I can obtain composite decking designs?

Hi:
I hope you can help me. I have a timbertech deck - (all pvc - no wood) on my deck in wood color. I installed it last year. This year the deck is turning white. I have tried everything to wash off the white - but to no avail.

A funny thing happened last year when the deck was installed. I noticed a few white scratches on the deck and called Timbertech who sent a man down. Not long after, they sent me a check, so I no longer have a warranty with Timbertech.

If you can please help me to see if there is anything I can put on the deck, i.e., any conditioning treatment, any deck treatment, anything that can restore the deck to the original wood look.

Thanking you in advance for your help.

Maria

Help. I had a large Timbertech deck added to my house a year ago. I love it, BUT, following any rain a large pool of water stays on the deck and the only way to get rid of it is by sweeping it over the side. If left alone, it would stay for days or weeks until the water evaporates. The contractor has drilled several more holes into the deck but to no avail. I think that it has been instaled incorrectly. What do you suggest?

Which brand of composite decking do you recommend?

We have a two year old Timber Tech deck experiencing mold spots which we were advised to use a cleaning solution of Corte Clean. This we did and it was hard work. When asked the Co. about a sealer, they advised against one. Then they said if we got rid of the mold thoroughly, we could try a Cabot Brand clear oil to seal.
Do you know anything about a sealer for composite decking that has not incorporated a preservative?

We use composite decking all the time. As long as you remember that it is "low maintenance" (not "maintenance-free") and clean it yearly per manufacturer's instructions, you will get an excellent long-term result.

www.CCIbuilt.com

To Pat Sommerkamp -

Use boiled linseed oil yearly after cleaning. It seals it well and provides a nice layer of protection.

www.CCIbult.com

Louisiana Pacific recall

http://www.deckingnotice.com/

I purchased Weyer-hauser Choice Deck for my deck rebuild. Although this product is the most structurally sound and durable product I feel I could put down, there has been a significant problem with mold. It take a significant amount of work to clean. If I'd have known I would have used a different product. Shop carefully folks.

Tim, I enjoyed your column about your opinion on composite decking. Have you had or talked to anybody with experience with Latitudes Decking? Please give me any input you have on this product. Thanks in advance.

Justin: I work for the company that makes Latitudes decking and would be glad to answer any questions you might have. That goes for anyone else on this forum as it appears Tim is not answering any of the inquiries. Feel free to email me at dgauthier@ufpi.com.

Dick Gauthier

Tim

I installed a product called EON decking and have had an issue with the expansion and contraction. It is my understanding that this company is no longer in business. Do you know of anywhere that I can still get this product to repair the existing deck?

John

I had composite decking at home which literally fell apart on me a few years back. I replaced it with a Powder Coated Aluminum Deck from FSI / LockDry and have had zero issues since. I was so happy with that I also put an Aluminum Dock System in at my cottage in 2006...and am maintenenance freein both places! The stuff is awesome. These guys (the Canadian dist) also have a deck replacement program coming out according to the rep. Thought

dear Tim, We are planning on building a house at the jersey shore and am concerned about the deck products as well. I read about the aluminum lockdry products do you have any infor on that product. Do you suggest that we stick with a mahogany deck despite the upkeep. we are in our late 50s and am concerned about the work involved. thank you

We are considering installing a PVC deck in our west coast Florida backyard. Can you provide any feedback on this type of product. The mfg is Gossen out of Milwaukee Wi.

Do you know which product contains the least amt of cellulose or wood content and DOES contain zinc borat?
thank you

I have a contract to build a large (outdoor) painted pergola- the client wants guarantees that the "wood" will not crack or split over time. wondering what might be the thing to use to sheath these massive beams (6"x14"x32' when finished) is there an affordable composite that comes in wide planks or sheets?

I want to expand my existing cedar deck about 4 feet from the house. It is in great condition except for the last 3 feet of decking has raised up!.... not down as ground settleing might explain. Cement footers were used when it was originally installed. No one seems to understand why this has happens. How can I be sure that it will be done correctly with my new expansion?

Alexis,

Check Tim's article http://www.askthebuilder.com/B10_Forces_Harmful_to_House_Foundation_Footers .shtml. There is a thing called Frost Heave, that might be your problem.

I have discovered in the majority of my research that deck top materials are like politics. You are all the way "composite" or all the way "wood"! I guess I am still at a loss as to which is better. Is there a good place that describes the pros / cons of decking over time? I live in upstate NY so we get snow as well as warm-ish summers. What benefits do I get from composite over wood or vice-versa over time? In 10 years will I be kicking myself for whichever type I got or happy with it? The articel is awesome because it points out things to be careful of but I am starting to think composite is not the end-all/be-all for deck flooring!

We have a deck with flooring of 5/4 treated wood (CCA) and railings of the same treated wood and cedar. The squirrels are eating everything - even the treated wood. They have also eaten through our vinyl furniture and the plastic umbrella holders that are filled with sand AND the plastic cap on top of the umbrellas. I know vinyl replacement now is not an alternative for us. I have checked with composite manufactures and none of them have an answer for us except to shoot, poison, or trap the squirrels. They would not say their products are "squirrel proof." Any suggestions?

We live in Colorado which is very dry so we have decided to use composite materials for our deck... we have selected TimberTech... are all of these mold and rot problems that are mentioned in these blogs occuring on the East coast which is way more humid? has started to worry me since the price for this project is not cheap and do not want to waste my money...
Janet from Colorado

I continued to do research on composite versus wood. I got nervous enough that I think I will just make sure my foundation platform is good and then use treated wood for the decking. If I hit the lottery, then I will go ahead with composite.
I talked to someone I work with about composite. He said; "If you asked me 6 months ago, I would have said 'Yes' to composite. Now, 6 months later, 'No!' due to mold issues in the planks." These are Trex composite deck pieces as well.
Upstate New York is our location.

you mention composite decking above and the pros or cons but no wear do you mention what is the best composite decking to use?? I am going to build a new deck this spring and need to know from you what you reccomend. I live in minnesota. totally confussed and lost to many products and brands

Thanks john

Stopped by the local HD to look at decking materials as I want to re-surface my pressure treated deck. In addition to the Veranda composite they now stock something called Veranda HP (in one color only) which is labeled as a PVC product. There were no info sheets describing it in the store, and even the Veranda website has no info on it. It's a bit more expensive. Does anyone have any experience with it or know anything about mold or scratch resistance? I've been kind of put off by the complaints I've read online about regular Veranda with regard to mold and fading. The Veranda HP had a modest sheen and looked a bit more like plastic, but overall looked good IMHO.

They also had (only for custom order) something called Veranda Sanctuary, which is also PVC and (I assume) is much more expensive, as it has a 25 year warranty.

I purchased a deck 3 years ago (Evergrain) it is starting to "crumble" to say it best iot several areas. Is this normal or should I contact the Company re: deterioration?
Thanks!

I used Monarch decking on my dock. It was expensive and was professionally installed by the contractor who built the dock. It started deteriating at about 1 1/2 years. Then, at 3 years it was too much, and really became a hazard. I contacted Biewer Lumber/Green Tree Composites who own Monarch (or the marketing rights). It took me more than 13 months, threats of law suits, and countless hours to get them to honor their 20-year warranty. Then, I had to pay the contractor to remove and dispose of the defective product and to install the new product. Very costly to me. They have the worst customer service, and don't want to honor their warranty, which is a big selling point for them.

I DO NOT recommend Monarch decking.

In addition to comments from KC: I'm another Monarch Runaround client with a 2 year outstanding complaint and a dangerous deck. I'm looking for others that may wish to join in a class action lawsuit and comtemplating just pushing ahead to initiate one. A company that can't stand behind their product really should leave the business to the professionals. A note to all who read this: as KC stated earlier

DO NOT USE MONARCH DECKING - CHOOSE A COMPANY THAT STANDS BEHIND THEIR PRODUCT - CHOOSE A COMPANY THAT MAKES A SOUND PRODUCT!

If there are others wanting to team up for appropriate resolution please contact me via email. I do have law offices and consumer groups prepared to move forward.

John Darling - jmacdarling@gmail.com

I'm not sure anyone has developed a good manufacturing technique for composite decking. I purchased Monarch decking for a dock believing in the 20-year warranty they had. In 3 years it began to deteriate rapidly. They didn't want to honor their warranty. After 13 months of dealing with them, they finally came through..probably only because of the threats of lawsuits.

They have since changed their warranty to be a pro-rated warranty...and you still have to pay for tear down of old deck, rebuild and disposal. They will only replace the product at the pro-rated rate, nothing else. The Monarch material is definitely inferior to others I have seen after going through this ordeal. It looks nice in their literature and website, but does not last. I suggest finding product that has been installed for more than 3 years in a similar environment to where you will be installing yours.

So out of all the companies, which is the best decking to get? I'm a bit confused. Can I attach an aluminum awning to it? Do they fade, have give with weight, blister etc? What do I look for?
how do I find a good contractor to install it?

Louisiana Pacific, the only company out of 15 that responded to your questionaire with impressive answers, now has a CPSC recall on their decking for breaking and injuring people when they fall through. Are there any manufacturers that make a quality product that we consumers can have long term confidance in?

AtB,
Does this also apply to PVC type composites like Gossen's Weather Ready product line.

Tim, Thanks so much for your informative article. My conclusion is that maybe I should forget composite and go with pressure treated wood?
My current deck has termites and I don't want to replace it twice.
Your take?
Thanks,
Christopher