So Many Options

Just found your site, great resource.

With so many options of plastic lumber (or I think they call it composite lumber), how do you tell which is the best for your application? Seems liek it is all the same, but so many differences they bring up in their websites?

My local HD carries Verdana? and Trex? Main difference I see is just the price?

Any ideas out there?

Composite decking tends to be a low-maintenance deck that endures all year round. Cleaning is a breeze and there is no annual staining required. It is a pretty smooth surface, so splinters are rarely an issue. As far as brands that is something that hopefully a local store could explain. Most of those guys who work in those stores don't work on commission anymore so they would probably be honest about the products.

Composite Decking: This may be an avenue that I need to look at down the road when I replace the deck that I currently have. Thanks for the info.

Checking out the two sites and reading on these products, Trex seems to provide the better product description:
http://www.trex.com/products/whatistrex.asp
vs.
http://www.verandadeck.com/products/index.htm
I have not done the price comparison though.

Composite Decking is the better choice in my opinion, as for which i best you need a specialist to tell you that mainly because you may live in an area with harsher weather conditions.

I recommend using trex because it is a low maintenance material and has many advantages over wood. It is more durable, you don't have to paint it or stain it, it has no harmful chemicals, no rotting or splintering, and it has pretty good natural look and feel.

There are about 65-70 companies making composite decking now with more coming into the market every week it seems. Most are similar tho some are definately better than others. Trex imo is one to stay away from as they have class action lawsuits against them. Of course they settled out of court so to avoid admitted any guilt. Most of the problems are about mold/mildew which forms on trex because of the wood particles at the surface which can absorb water. Their other problem is their boards can disintegrate because of bio-degradable recycled plastic used.

Of all the composites that I have used (lots of them) Ameradeck stands out as the best imo. If you are considering a composite do your research first as many of them have problems. My advice is to shop where they carry several brands so you can compare, not the big box stores that sell house brands like veranda/choicedeck.

Al

We use TimberTech and it is a premium product. I have some pics on my site of some examples.

Unregistered said:

Just found your site, great resource.

With so many options of plastic lumber (or I think they call it composite lumber), how do you tell which is the best for your application? Seems liek it is all the same, but so many differences they bring up in their websites?

My local HD carries Verdana? and Trex? Main difference I see is just the price?

Any ideas out there?

Click to expand...

One thing to be aware of is some plastic decking tends to mold. We have some neighbors who have the composite decking, and with the mold they have to remove, it's just as much labor as our wood deck. We live on a lake as well, so that may be a factor. Good luck with your research!

Rebecca

Little Rock Patio Furniture

It's true that composite decking will mold, but that's pretty easy to take care of and still less maintenance than wood. You just need the right cleaner. Expert Chemical manufactures a special Composite Deck Cleaner and Enhancer that gets rid of mold, mildew and other stains on composite decks. Its an easy DIY job. You don't need a pressure washer or anything complicated. The instructions are simple, and the product is endorsed by the major composite deck brands.

You can learn more about it at http://www.expertchemicalinc.com/shop/

wood plastic composite is a versatile decking product that is made from a combination of reclaimed wood fiber and recycled plastics. This blend results in a durable, attractive, cost effective and low maintenance alternative for your decking needs.



Durable

wood plastic composite is highly resistant to weather, warping and termites. It will not split, crack, rot or splinter.


Attractive

The beauty of wood remains without all the upkeep. Wood plastic composite give your deck a warmth and sophistication that will last for years!



Low Maintenance

Staining, sanding and oiling are things of the past when you build with wood plastic composite. Virtually maintenance free, simply gives your deck the occasional wash.



Easily Installation

You can enjoy the installation in your surroundings with your family on holidays but not as a work.



Series of Garden boards

You can choose difference style from Garden decking, fence, decking tile and garden box. Every style has its own features but all will offer you a natural feeling.



Environmentally Friendly & Safe

wood plastic compositeis made from recycled plastics and reclaimed wood fibers. The reeded or grooved textures dramatically increase slip resistance.