Brands That Stand the Test of Time
So you’re planning on building your own deck. You’ve done your research, talked to the pros, and you’ve decided that composite decking is the right choice for your project. Great!
What now?
You have quite a few decisions to make now. From color to profile, quality, and, most of all, brand.
There are quite a few brands you need to consider when it comes to composite decking. Which one is right for you and your project?
Let’s take a look at your options.
Composite Deck
There are a few different types of composite decking to know about, starting with what they’re made of.
A lot of composite deck boards are made from a combination of organic and inorganic materials. For example, some composite deck boards are made up of a combination of wood fibers and polymer plastic or recycled materials. On the other hand, you might find solid PVC boards or boards made entirely up of 100% recycled plastics.
Another thing that distinguishes composite boards is whether they’re solid or hollow.
Solid planks, as their name implies, are solid blocks that are heavier and denser. These boards are made through compression molding.
Hollow boards are, as the name suggests, hollow, and they usually need caps on the end to cover the openings. These are more lightweight and they stand up better to weather changes.
Here are some popular brands that sell composite lumber for decks, and why you might choose them:
Composite Deck Boards by Trex
In addition to having one of the largest selections of composite lumber in the industry, Trex also offers some of the least expensive options. Trex has three thickness levels to choose from. Their materials tend to cost an average of $15 to $35 per square foot, plus parts and labor.
Trex Composite boards are made largely of reclaimed plastic and wood materials. 95% of these materials come from recovered plastic bags, plastic film, and waste wood lumber.
Trex decking is compression-molded and sometimes comes with an extruded outer shell. Additionally, the planks are solid materials and finished with end caps or trim ends.
Trex boards tend to last longer than pressure-treated wood and stand up to wear and tear from the elements.
For the most part, Trex offers a limited warranty of 25 years. There’s usually an additional 25-year residential fade and stain warranty.
Norx Decking Boards
Signature composite decking brand, Norx, is made up of 95% recycled materials. Norx composite lumber won’t splinter or warp. It also doesn’t require frequent cleaning, staining, sealing, or painting. Their unique design offers a realistic wooden appearance while still having a style all its own. With its state-of-the-art technology aimed at the eyes’ of architects, Norx is visually stunning and undeniably durable. Its price also poses tremendous value, making it a fierce competitor in the composite decking world.
Currently, Norx is running their Paris, Rio, and Barcelona collections. The Paris collection is protected by its Elastic Surface Technology, an elastic and rubber coating that seals and protects against the elements. Their Rio collection is protected by a technology called GroundGuard, a protection underneath its surface. Rio, in particular, mimics the appearance of exotic hardwoods.
Their PVC Barcelona collection offers cutting edge PVC technology in two eye-catching color options. Rot-resistant, weather protected, and reversible in two signature grains, these PVC boards can elevate any outdoor decking space. If you’re searching for maximum durability and flexible decking technology, Barcelona is an excellent choice.
The Paris collection comes in four colors: Eiffel, Elysees, Triomphe, and Louvre. The Rio collection comes in four more; Corcovado, Ipanema, Leblon, and Copacabana.
The Rio collection features boards that are capped on three sides and have an above average 30 Year warranty. Paris and Barcelona are capped on all four sides and also have an above average 30 year warranty.
Call Lumber Plus today to get a pricing estimate.
TimberTech Decking Boards
TimberTech offers varieties of surface decking, railing, trim, porch, molding components, and other hardware accessories. Their capped composite boards are made up of a blend of wood fibers and plastic polymers, about 80% of which are recycled materials. Their capped polymer deck boards are made of 100% plastic polymers, about 50% of which are recycled materials. TimberTech boards are highly resistant to stains, scratches, splits, mold, and mildew.
TimberTech boards give a remarkably realistic wood look to your outdoor deck. They run an average of $20 to $40 per square foot. Their boards are available in narrow, standard, and wide board widths. There are over 40 colors and textures for you to choose from to find your perfect material.
Their capped boards are solid molded PVC throughout the entire thickness of the board. There’s an added extra-durable cap coating on the more exposed surfaces.
Timbertech AZEK boards are often regarded as the best in the business. Keep in mind, however, that that also might affect the price tag. Depending on which board you choose, your product includes a 25 to 30-year warranty. Their polymer boards are also covered by a 50-year fade and stain warranty.
Fiberon Decking Boards
The Fiberon company was founded in North Carolina in 1997, and has since been one of the premier suppliers of composite lumber. Their products, which include decking, railing, and fencing, feature a strong PVC “Permatech” outer shell that bonds to the board’s wood composite core. Because of this protective layer, Fiberon boards promise to be fade and stain-resistant.
They categorize their boards as “good”, “better”, and “best”. Two of these variants are PVC lines: Paramount and Promenade. The other four are wood/plastic composites: Concordia, Sanctuary, Good Life, and ArmorGuard. Their “best” lines boast a realistic wood grain texture that stands up strong against fading.
Fiberon boards are available in four color categories: gray, golden brown, classic brown, and reddish-brown. Across these categories, there are 21 colors overall.
Fiberon boards are composed of 50 percent synthetic plastic PVC, combined with 50 percent recycled wood. Their wood is made up of a combination of sawdust and other discarded wood. Their boards receive surface capping on three or four sides.
While all of their products carry a twenty-five-year warranty, their highest-quality products include a 50-year warranty. Take that into consideration when planning your project!
For parts and labor, Fiberon boards will run you about $15 to $26 per square foot.
Over time, pollen, dirt, and organic debris will start to build up on your deck. For that reason, Fiberon recommends cleaning your deck every two years. Regular cleaning for mold and mildew should take place as well. This should be done with non-metal scrub brushes.
Lumber Plus Has Your Back
Want to learn more about these brands? Get some advice from our experts before getting started on your next lumber project. Our team is passionate and ready to help you!
Visit us online to browse our selection and get some inspiration!
