Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - composite decking

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HotBacon
05-20-04, 07:05 PM
What is the "best" composite decking material around nowadays?

I'm hearing Trex is low on the list of composite newcomers now (lots of sag, high price). I'm hearing Evergrain by Epoch getting good reviews. Any ideas/experience is appreciated.


fewalt
05-20-04, 07:30 PM
HotBacon,

Trex has improved recently. They even have a grain effect in their newer style similar to the Evergrain.
I put a small Evergrain deck/dock next to my 3500 gal. pond. I sorta lucked out though. I got 40% off what I needed since it was left over from a big job and a couple pieces had some hydraulic fluid stains(I just discarded).
I had to pre-drill for every screw - that stuff is tough as oak!!
If you can afford the composites, it's the way to go.
About the only maintenance will be an occasionally cleaning.

fred

HotBacon
05-20-04, 07:44 PM
If you can afford the composites, it's the way to go.
About the only maintenance will be an occasionally cleaning.



That's exactly what I thought. I was a little worried after reading about some horror stories (opinions) about it though. I'm beginning to realize people have some polar opinions on composites...they either love them, or absolutely hate them. Considering the time and maintenance cost going into our current wood deck, I can definitely see myself putting out some more $$$$ for the new one.


lefty
05-21-04, 05:04 AM
HotBacon,

You're right -- people are VERY polar when it comes to composites. I have yet to talk to more than a handful of folks who are neutral or undecided about them.

"Sag??" The ONLY reason a composite deck will EVER experience 'sag' is because the boards were overspanned. Don't blame the decking if it wasn't put down right!!

My two preferences are Trex and WeatherBest. Neither of my 2 suppliers has brought in Evergrain, yet.

jbrown1992
06-13-04, 11:08 AM
HotBacon,

If you're looking for the best composite decking material, check out TimberTech. They have the widest array of choices. Their material is of higher quality than other composites and use a virgin polyethelene instead of recycled. That way the color is consistent in all planks. They also just came out with the first composite white railing system as well. You can find dealers near you on www.timbertech.com. Their dealer locator comes in handy.

Hellrazor
06-13-04, 02:42 PM
I recently installed a 10x24 deck with Geodeck. I am happy with everything about it. I do not like the gray colored composite decking made by ANY manufacturer. Deck sag with composites is caused by using 24" centers instead of 16". 5/4" decking needs 16OC.