Composite Decking

[Slickcraft]

We have a wraparound low deck of about 550 sq. feet and are getting bids to have it resurfaced. The old material is stained 25-year-old pressure treated wood. The bids that we have are for Trex brand composite decking. As we have no experience with composite decking, some questions:

One apparent downside is vulnerability to scuffing and scratching. Is this a real issue? We do scrape snow off with shovels and a small snow blower. Also, roof access for chimney sweeping involves setting a ladder on the low deck.

Another possible issue is thermal expansion with the main decking section being on the south side. Should we stay away from brown and just consider the grey colors? Or does proper installation make this a non-issue?

The Trex composite comes in 3 grades: Select “good”, Enhance “better” and Transcend “best”. I have not found a good explanation of what the differences in the self-ratings are really based on. No doubt the pricing goes from $ to $$ to $$$.

We will probably have the house on the market in 2 or 3 years so presumably composite will be more attractive than PT to a buyer. On the other hand, PT is much lower in initial cost and maybe stands up better to being beat upon. Any comments?

[Doobs41378]

We had it narrowed down to Mahogany and Azek and went with the wood. They were both the same price give or take. Big mistake in my opinion. The upkeep on the wood is just a PIA. I could have spent the same money and had almost no upkeep. Hindsight is 20/20 but I would go with the composite.

[DesertDweller]

I personally would never have a non composite deck again and my guess is that it would be a very good selling point for a house. Never need to stain, treat, or otherwise and continues to look great. My deck is gray in color with white railings and I think it looks really nice. Sure it scuffs and what not but nothing to get too excited about. Trex is the original and many would say the best. There are cheaper alternatives. One thing to note is that depending on what brand/type of composite decking you go with, make sure your existing joists are not too far apart to properly support the composite lumber. I think Trex comes in different qualities like you mentioned and some of them are designed to span longer joist spacing distances.

[Merrymeeting]

Originally Posted by DesertDweller

I personally would never have a non composite deck again and my guess is that it would be a very good selling point for a house.

What he said. Every deck we've done for the past 10 years has been some type of man-made material and I've never regretted it.

When we re-built our cabin at the lake, one of my priorities was to design everything outside to be as maintenance free as possible. Was it more expensive? Somewhat. But worth it. 5 years later, outside looks as good as when it was built, and we've yet to do anything to it. Most people don't even know it's not wood until they ask.

[jetlag100]

Used composite up the lake house...it gets dumped on every time the metal roof lets go...LOL ..One year the roof had ice, it slid, it broke through the deck...that was an unusually hard winter...looks great...it's 10 years old... cleans up beautifully...use deck wash on it..no issues...wish I had it at my city house..$$$$$$$$$$$

[winni83]

When we built our house 4 years ago we used Azek for the decks. Very pleased with the way they look. We do use a snow shovel with a plastic blade on the decks.

[DickR]

On our new house, built 2010-11, we used Fiberon imitation IPE composite decking. It still looks new, and it's a good match to the house siding. It has a fairly tough shell over the core material and seems to stand up well to abuse, including snow shoveling with a plastic shovel. I suspect PT would suffer more abuse over time than the composite does, being a wood product. Plus, the PT would tend to present potential splinters to bare feet over time, whereas the composite will not. Long-term maintenance tilts in favor of composite. Bear in mind that labor to install either type of decking likely will be more than the material itself, so a lesser uptick for better material won't be as big a deal.

If you do go composite, as others have noted, make sure the joist spacing is close enough for the material, particularly if the decking is attached at 45 degrees, which may call for 12" OC joist spacing. Also, if composite decking is used, and it has grooves on the edges for the use of hidden fasteners, then lateral bracing of the framing will be required, since the use of those fasteners does not provide racking resistance.

[Slickcraft]

Thanks for all of the good replies and I suspect some more yet to come.

Right now we are sticking with the composite plan, likely a light grey color. That is the color of the stain we have on the old PT decking and have been happy with that color. The bid that we have is the Trex Transcend line, will talk to the contractor about other options. The size of the deck does lead to pretty high material costs.

The 25 year old PT decking would have been in much better shape if the original owner had sealed or stained it. Rather it went 10 years untouched except for mother nature resulting in lots of surface cracks and splinters.

As an aside I must have messed up on my advanced search prior to posting. Got zero past results meaning that I must have accidentally clicked on the wrong forum on the sidebar.

[Woody38]

Our house in Massachusetts is 25 years old with the original pine decking. The original owner had the house built and the contractor did the usual by cutting corners. The deck is stained and had minimal care by the owner. Interesting that we painted the house two years ago and I assumed the deck was included. When they finished I was told they would stain the deck for $800.
My fault, but this is the first time I had a house painted and they did not do the deck. This deck is sort of beat up but presentable. I got out the sander and did some sanding on the worst spots and lightly elsewhere. My real issue is that stain today is not oil. Didn't soak in so good and did not shed water like the oil. I am applying a second coat.
If I were to replace this deck I would use mahogany or teak. AND proper maintainance

[SAB1]

What Ishoot said. Two of my friends are quality builders and will use nothing but azek. To manyissues with trex that they have to go back and fix.

[VitaBene]

We just replaced our Douglas Fir deck with Azek. We bought it at Winnipesaukee Lumber- they were great to deal with.

Our joists were already 12"OC. We did picture frame ours to cover the edges.

[Busy Livin']

Recommend the Camo Hidden Fastener System for whatever decking material you use. We did our deck last year with Azek from Winni Lumber and secured it with the Camo system...came out great. Easy to use and practically invisible.

[SIKSUKR]

When I had put new siding on my house I used Azek for all the trim, facia and crown molding on my windows. Love that stuff. Azek came more recommended than Trex. FWIW

Just an fyi. I have seen on both materials what appears like mold spots. It does come off with scrubbing.

[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by SIKSUKR

When I had put new siding on my house I used Azek for all the trim, facia and crown molding on my windows. Love that stuff. Azek came more recommended than Trex. FWIW

Just an fyi. I have seen on both materials what appears like mold spots. It does come off with scrubbing.

The composite decking does get dirty on occasion. The solution is easy.......just use a power washer and everything looks brand new. I spend 2-3 hours with a power washer on my composite deck and it looks like New after I'm finished. Definitely go with good quality composite.....you will not be disappointed.

[CaptT820]

Couldn't agree with Easy Livin' any more. The Camo deck system is wayyy cheaper than hidden fasteners and goes in much faster. I built a 1350 sq. ft. full wrap around farmers porch on our last house using Camo and Evergrain decking by Tamko. The decking worked great and the system to put it in worked great. I cannot stress enough, as others have, that the joist spacing is absolutely critical depending on the product. I currently have mahogany at our house and I would replace it (if it wasn't so expensive) with composite.

[BroadHopper]

Probably the oldest and preferred by top builders and architects.

[Diver Vince]

Let's make this simple..Use Azek. Can't be beat. Our deck now 4 years old and looks great!

[ishoot308]

Slick;

Here's a chart explaining the difference...

http://www.anotheramazingdeck.com/20...end-decking-3/

Not a fan of Trex at all. I have seen too many issues over the years with their product. If I was building a composite deck today I would use either Azek or Latitudes. Good thread on composite decking here... https://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums...posite+decking

Lighter colors will fade much less and absorb much less heat (cooler on the feet). No issues with scuffing and less prone than wood to scuffing except maybe IPE.

Dan

[Biggd]

Azek is the best. The only problem is it's a lot heavier than wood so make sure the structural part of the deck is up to the added weight. Otherwise with snow load added it could be a problem.

[Dad sold the C * C]

We have composit decking on both houses and I'm happy with it. The minimal maintenance and no splinters is a big plus. It was a selling point when we bought the lake house 3 years ago.

In Mass we inherited a RedWood deck, which was beautiful, but one more job that had to be done every few years. When we did a renovation that required removing half the deck we had a hard decision to make, redwood was out of the budget. We went with composit and we are still happy with the decision. I am happy to say that no redwood deck ended up in a land-fill. I took it apart piece by piece and have used it on several projects including one at the lake that has markings from our long gone cat.

550 sq feet is a lot of deck to maintain. Yes it can get hot on bare feet but anything can. If it was a small deck that a nice expensive natural wood could add an accent piece, that's one thing. Personally, composit over PT on a second home where you do your own maintenance, composit all the way.

This has been discussed before I'm sure you will get a lot of good information.

[Descant]

We too have 25 year old PT decking. ISS painted it and it looks like new. Granted, the life expectancy of a painted surface is low, but I'd talk to a realtor about how much to spend where for most bang for the buck.

Your neighbor in the cove has a huge dock/deck complex, all trex, several years old, still looks great. No maintenance except cleaning up spills, no snow removal is done.

[Water Camper]

I put Trex on our deck at the lake. Love it, even though our deck is directly in the sun, never hot. Very comfortable on the feet.
Our deck at home is pressure treated, would love to replace with Trex !

My opinion only.
Bill

[sky's]

Originally Posted by Slickcraft

We have a wraparound low deck of about 550 sq. feet and are getting bids to have it resurfaced. The old material is stained 25-year-old pressure treated wood. The bids that we have are for Trex brand composite decking. As we have no experience with composite decking, some questions:

One apparent downside is vulnerability to scuffing and scratching. Is this a real issue? We do scrape snow off with shovels and a small snow blower. Also, roof access for chimney sweeping involves setting a ladder on the low deck.

Another possible issue is thermal expansion with the main decking section being on the south side. Should we stay away from brown and just consider the grey colors? Or does proper installation make this a non-issue?

The Trex composite comes in 3 grades: Select “good”, Enhance “better” and Transcend “best”. I have not found a good explanation of what the differences in the self-ratings are really based on. No doubt the pricing goes from $ to $$ to $$$.

We will probably have the house on the market in 2 or 3 years so presumably composite will be more attractive than PT to a buyer. On the other hand, PT is much lower in initial cost and maybe stands up better to being beat upon. Any comments?

curious on "the bid" process did you get contractors to give you bids. not trying to be a smart butt just wondering????

[Slickcraft]

Originally Posted by sky's

curious on "the bid" process did you get contractors to give you bids. not trying to be a smart butt just wondering????

A bit of a story.

We originally got 2 bids for Trex Transcend. There is about 500 sq ft of wrap around deck and a 50 sq ft balcony deck. Then we were considering additional quotes for Azek but did some more research. The large wrap around deck is a low free standing structure subject to some movement due to frost. The Azek web site cautions against using their product in such situations.

Then as we plan to sell in 2 or 3 years I took Descant's advice in post #5. I asked our realtor if composite decking would would be a real advantage over stained PT decking provided that the PT was recently installed and in excellent condition. The answer was not much of an advantage. The advice was to go the PT route and use the difference toward new granite counter tops in the kitchen. We had the contractor we had chosen rebid using PT, the difference is about 4K which is about 2/3 the cost of the granite counter tops. So that is what we just decided to do.

Appreciate all the good comments.

Alan

[DesertDweller]

Originally Posted by Slickcraft

A bit of a story.

We originally got 2 bids for Trex Transcend. There is about 500 sq ft of wrap around deck and a 50 sq ft balcony deck. Then we were considering additional quotes for Azek but did some more research. The large wrap around deck is a low free standing structure subject to some movement due to frost. The Azek web site cautions against using their product in such situations.

Then as we plan to sell in 2 or 3 years I took Descant's advice in post #5. I asked our realtor if composite decking would would be a real advantage over stained PT decking provided that the PT was recently installed and in excellent condition. The answer was not much of an advantage. The advice was to go the PT route and use the difference toward new granite counter tops in the kitchen. We had the contractor we had chosen rebid using PT, the difference is about 4K which is about 2/3 the cost of the granite counter tops. So that is what we just decided to do.

Appreciate all the good comments.

Alan

As they say, kitchens sell houses so it sounds like a good move to me........

[newbie]

Great thread

For those that have installed either Trex or Azek, do you mind sharing the approximate cost per square foot that you received from installers.

I am thinking about having my deck redone and need to do some budgeting and saving.

Thanks

Newbie

[SIKSUKR]

Cant give the installers price but the material itself is around double the price of pt.

[Doobs41378]

Originally Posted by newbie

Great thread

For those that have installed either Trex or Azek, do you mind sharing the approximate cost per square foot that you received from installers.

I am thinking about having my deck redone and need to do some budgeting and saving.

Thanks

Newbie

A few years ago I was quoted around 10k for 200 sq ft deck with railings for Azek. This included building the base as well as they were not replacing a deck it was a brand new deck.

[SAB1]

Last year we built a new home. The deck is 14x16 an it came in at 6,800 I believe

[Descant]

Originally Posted by SAB1

Last year we built a new home. The deck is 14x16 an it came in at 6,800 I believe

$6800 for TREX or PT?

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by SAB1

Last year we built a new home. The deck is 14x16 an it came in at 6,800 I believe

That doesn't sound right. That's about what it would cost just for materials if you include the PT framing and the Sona tube footings. My son built one about the same size 2 years ago using Azek. Just the materials were more than that and he got a contractors discount at Harvey's.

[SAB1]

Just checked my file. Materials alone were $6,078 for the Azek and framing under the deck, railings and three 3 stairs off the corner.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by SAB1

Just checked my file. Materials alone were $6,078 for the Azek and framing under the deck, railings and three 3 stairs off the corner.

That's sounds more like it. My son went over and above what was require by the building code plus he use the fastening system they sell for securing the boards without seeing the screws which adds hundreds of $$$ more to the bill. Most builders will be 50/50 materials/labor. He got a price from a contractor of $13,500 and I doubt that they would have done a nicer job than he did himself with help of a carpenter friend. I think he paid his friend 3K so it still cost him about 10K but it came out beautiful.

[WinnisquamZ]

Had a Azek deck built and lived with for 11 years. Only negative was the heat. Deck was in full sun very hot on bare feet. Had to use a outdoor rug


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[thinkxingu]

Holla! I'm replacing the boards on my camp deck and am wondering if Azek is still the way to go? I'm looking for the least maintenance at the best cost. Thanks!

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[WinnisquamZ]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Holla! I'm replacing the boards on my camp deck and am wondering if Azek is still the way to go? I'm looking for the least maintenance at the best cost. Thanks!

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Two seasons ago I was talked out of PT by the individuals doing my deck. I was told Azek or other brands was the way to go. Could not be happier with the results

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[Winilyme]

Originally Posted by WinnisquamZ

Two seasons ago I was talked out of PT by the individuals doing my deck. I was told Azek or other brands was the way to go. Could not be happier with the results


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Winnisq - what brand did you go with and why did you choose that one over others? This is a topic of interest to me as we'll be replacing our dock sometime in the near future. Thank you.

[Bear Islander]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Holla! I'm replacing the boards on my camp deck and am wondering if Azek is still the way to go? I'm looking for the least maintenance at the best cost. Thanks!

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Several years ago we replaced our deck with Azek. Last year we used Azek to resurface our dock.

With Azek the color goes all the way through, a real plus. The hidden screw system is invisible. It is not cheap, about the same price as top of the line Trex.

I recommend it.

[Sue Doe-Nym]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Holla! I'm replacing the boards on my camp deck and am wondering if Azek is still the way to go? I'm looking for the least maintenance at the best cost. Thanks!

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We replaced our 40’x16’ deck last summer with Trex, and we are sorry we waited so long to get rid of the PT one that we did 20 years ago. The Trex came from Lowe’s and it is terrific. No regrets.

[loonguy]

We used Trex last Summer to replace our front porch and are happy with the results.

[Barney Bear]

We installed gray Trex on our dock about seven years ago, and it still looks new. To protect feet and other portions of one's anatomy, we lay a large mat on the dock when our summertime guests arrive, as the decking gets quite hot. 🐻

[tis]

Azek is absolutely the way to go. We have had them all. Trex is ok but as stated, it gets hot and has wood in it so will mildew-get black spots on it. They make it encapsulated now so it isn't as bad. But after years of not being happy I have had the Azek for many years now and still love it. It is worth it believe me.

[NH.Solar]

Any time I have a question on, or curiousity about building questions I turn to Matt Risinger. Here's his input on decking; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDoSt5ErCSA

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by NH.Solar

Any time I have a question on, or curiousity about building questions I turn to Matt Risinger. Here's his input on decking; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDoSt5ErCSA

That was good for some aspects of decking (stains/scratches), but my real two questions right now are: heat and maintenance (mold, etc.).

It appears that A&B is going to have a great sale in a couple weeks—$1.60/ft. for Trex Enhance, which is ~$.20 cheaper than Lowe's sale price. Haven't checked HD.

I'm looking at the Beach Dune color.

Thoughts (for a summer camp mostly in full sun)?

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[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

That was good for some aspects of decking (stains/scratches), but my real two questions right now are: heat and maintenance (mold, etc.).

It appears that A&B is going to have a great sale in a couple weeks—$1.60/ft. for Trex Enhance, which is ~$.20 cheaper than Lowe's sale price. Haven't checked HD.

I'm looking at the Beach Dune color.

Thoughts (for a summer camp mostly in full sun)?

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Who is "A&B" ? We are looking at composites as well...hopefully our deck infrastructure is sound so we can just replace the decking. Will be doing some investigating the underneath when the weather breaks. My wife and I will be doing all the work.

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by Hillcountry

Who is "A&B" ? We are looking at composites as well...hopefully our deck infrastructure is sound so we can just replace the decking. Will be doing some investigating the underneath when the weather breaks. My wife and I will be doing all the work.

A&B is the lumber place in Moultonborough—all Belletet's are having the sale.

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[sky's]

Originally Posted by Hillcountry

Who is "A&B" ? We are looking at composites as well...hopefully our deck infrastructure is sound so we can just replace the decking. Will be doing some investigating the underneath when the weather breaks. My wife and I will be doing all the work.

you have to keep in mind composite is nearly 3 times heavier than wood. i would say in around a dozen or so decks we do a year the frame 99% of the time is not sound and will need to be replaced. also many decks that were installed were nailed down which is WRONG when you remove the old decking chances are you'll see huge nail holes that may be a factor as well even with a hidden fastener system. good luck in your project. also check your ledger board to make sure it was flashed properly

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by sky's

you have to keep in mind composite is nearly 3 times heavier than wood. i would say in around a dozen or so decks we do a year the frame 99% of the time is not sound and will need to be replaced. also many decks that were installed were nailed down which is WRONG when you remove the old decking chances are you'll see huge nail holes that may be a factor as well even with a hidden fastener system. good luck in your project. also check your ledger board to make sure it was flashed properly

Most decks that were built 20 or so years ago are probably not strong enough for composite decking, esp if the frame has deteriorated.
I built a 14' x 16' composite deck a few years ago for my son and the town made me use 16" sono-tubes instead of the usual 12" because of the extra weight. That was a lot more bags of cement than I wanted to mix!
I noticed that when I bought an extension for my Aluminum dock they use a much lighter material for their deck boards. It's not the same as the composites decking.
Composite decking might be OK for a permanent dock but it would be too heavy for a dock that had to be removed every year.

[tis]

Azek is not composite though.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by tis

Azek is not composite though.

It is still very heavy though.

[tis]

Originally Posted by Biggd

It is still very heavy though.

It's not really. It's lighter than wood.

[8gv]

There is a conspiracy to make things heavier every year.

This often goes undetected until one reaches the age of sixty or so.

It seems that the added weight is more noticeable each year after that.

[tis]

Azek is not a composite. It does not have wood in it. Trex is a composite. It has wood inside it which makes it heavier and which also makes it hotter and makes it especially susceptible to the dampness around the lake.

[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by sky's

you have to keep in mind composite is nearly 3 times heavier than wood. i would say in around a dozen or so decks we do a year the frame 99% of the time is not sound and will need to be replaced. also many decks that were installed were nailed down which is WRONG when you remove the old decking chances are you'll see huge nail holes that may be a factor as well even with a hidden fastener system. good luck in your project. also check your ledger board to make sure it was flashed properly

Our deck was built with pressure treated 2x6 dimensional. Most were 12 footers and of course, the rest cut to fit. These boards are much heavier than normal 5/4 decking. I would think if the structure was built to accommodate 2x6 PT, it would more than suffice for composite. Yes? No?

[sky's]

Originally Posted by Hillcountry

Our deck was built with pressure treated 2x6 dimensional. Most were 12 footers and of course, the rest cut to fit. These boards are much heavier than normal 5/4 decking. I would think if the structure was built to accommodate 2x6 PT, it would more than suffice for composite. Yes? No?

i honestly wouldnt count on it. your going to make a great investment change the entire deck to new if your 12' out from the house. go with a 2x8 and also if your ever considering a hot tub or you entertain in the summer throw in a row of blocking in the middle. the big ticket is the decking not the frame. good luck. also depending on how close to the ground you are cover that area with heavy plastic and throw some stone on top to control moisture

[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by sky's

i honestly wouldnt count on it. your going to make a great investment change the entire deck to new if your 12' out from the house. go with a 2x8 and also if your ever considering a hot tub or you entertain in the summer throw in a row of blocking in the middle. the big ticket is the decking not the frame. good luck. also depending on how close to the ground you are cover that area with heavy plastic and throw some stone on top to control moisture

Yeah...we’ll see the story when we start stripping the 2x6 decking...I must say there is no evidence of rot below as the whole thing is very sturdy with no soft spots save a board or two that have rot spots.
No worries about moisture at all as my house was built on very sandy soil that drains instantly and the deck is on the sunny side. I would like to replace the whole deck but was hoping to just do the floor. $$ is a factor and whatever we build will surely outlast us!

[Eyeboat]

We replaced our porch and used English mahogeny Azek. A&B supplied the product. I compared just about all the products out there requesting samples of just about every color from the manufacturer. I had enough that my builder now has nearly a complete set.

As posted earlier Azek is full synthetic with a slightly thicker textured cap than the rest. The Trex/composite products are indeed nearly 3 times heavier.

Very important!!!!!! If you go with Azek you need to have the cross members supports spaced closer than is code when using long lengths or you will get bowing. I have an area that wasn't despite mentioning my concerns to the builder and I do indeed have bowing. It is not bad but noticeable and annoying to me. This is not a concern for Trex, it is as rigid as cement and about as heavy.

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by Eyeboat

We replaced our porch and used English mahogeny Azek. A&B supplied the product. I compared just about all the products out there requesting samples of just about every color from the manufacturer. I had enough that my builder now has nearly a complete set.

As posted earlier Azek is full synthetic with a slightly thicker textured cap than the rest. The Trex/composite products are indeed nearly 3 times heavier.

Very important!!!!!! If you go with Azek you need to have the cross members supports spaced closer than is code when using long lengths or you will get bowing. I have an area that wasn't despite mentioning my concerns to the builder and I do indeed have bowing. It is not bad but noticeable and annoying to me. This is not a concern for Trex, it is as rigid as cement and about as heavy.

Weight might be a factor if that different. What is the weight percentage difference between PT, composite, synthetic?

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[djwade4]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Holla! I'm replacing the boards on my camp deck and am wondering if Azek is still the way to go? I'm looking for the least maintenance at the best cost. Thanks!

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Mahogany with a good urethane base. Wolman’s is the best

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[JEEPONLY]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Holla! I'm replacing the boards on my camp deck and am wondering if Azek is still the way to go? I'm looking for the least maintenance at the best cost. Thanks!

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Would it be fair to guess (notice I avoided "assume") that this won't happen for maybe a year, or two?

[WinnisquamZ]

Individuals building it recommended Azek. Hidden screw system is great


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[djwade4]

Originally Posted by Slickcraft

We have a wraparound low deck of about 550 sq. feet and are getting bids to have it resurfaced. The old material is stained 25-year-old pressure treated wood. The bids that we have are for Trex brand composite decking. As we have no experience with composite decking, some questions:

One apparent downside is vulnerability to scuffing and scratching. Is this a real issue? We do scrape snow off with shovels and a small snow blower. Also, roof access for chimney sweeping involves setting a ladder on the low deck.

Another possible issue is thermal expansion with the main decking section being on the south side. Should we stay away from brown and just consider the grey colors? Or does proper installation make this a non-issue?

The Trex composite comes in 3 grades: Select “good”, Enhance “better” and Transcend “best”. I have not found a good explanation of what the differences in the self-ratings are really based on. No doubt the pricing goes from $ to $$ to $$$.

We will probably have the house on the market in 2 or 3 years so presumably composite will be more attractive than PT to a buyer. On the other hand, PT is much lower in initial cost and maybe stands up better to being beat upon. Any comments?

Hello I’m Doug Wade I own Bluebird construction. I prefer mahogany for decks. Strong and lasts. Call me and I will give you a free estimate. 603-770-3677


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[tbonies]

Originally Posted by djwade4

Hello I’m Doug Wade I own Bluebird construction. I prefer mahogany for decks. Strong and lasts. Call me and I will give you a free estimate. 603-770-3677


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Doug - I totally agree. The key is to keep up with the maintenance. If you do, nothing compares to the real thing...

[thinkxingu]

Ok, we're finally getting to the point of replacing the decking on two of our decks this spring. I've got a few brands I've been told to look at: Azek, Fiberon, Trex, and Timbertech (made by Azek?).

I've read through above, but can someone summarize which would be the best combination of durability, low maintenance, and cost? I'm not all that concerned with look, hot feet, etc.

Also, the best place to buy?

Finally, thoughts on vinyl railings?

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[tis]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Ok, we're finally getting to the point of replacing the decking on two of our decks this spring. I've got a few brands I've been told to look at: Azek, Fiberon, Trex, and Timbertech (made by Azek?).

I've read through above, but can someone summarize which would be the best combination of durability, low maintenance, and cost? I'm not all that concerned with look, hot feet, etc.

Also, the best place to buy?

Finally, thoughts on vinyl railings?

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You're not concerned with burning the bottom of your feet? Wow! How about your kids?

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by tis

You're not concerned with burning the bottom of your feet? Wow! How about your kids?

Both decks are in the shade, so, unless the decking generates its own heat, yes—I'm not concerned with burning the bottom of my feet. Or my kids'.

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[tis]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Both decks are in the shade, so, unless the decking generates its own heat, yes—I'm not concerned with burning the bottom of my feet. Or my kids'.

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Oh ok..

[ApS]

"Old thread"...

So now my two PT decks and docks are 40+ years old.

Every spring, I check for splinters. Using a tube of Thixo and a brick, one or two splinters get the treatment.

Available everywhere, no mold, strong and light--PT shouldn't be overlooked. (But even wood will get hot...! Just hose it down--once).

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Both decks are in the shade, so, unless the decking generates its own heat, yes—I'm not concerned with burning the bottom of my feet. Or my kids'.

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I'm not sure anyone mentioned it but Composite decking is much more slick in the winter than the wood decking.

[4 for Boating]

Maybe this will help – we did our deck over with Trex a couple of years ago.
>>> Lowes sells this but it carries different levels of quality – if “flex” of the board is not an issue then the Enhanced line (thinner – carved out underside) will be the most cost effective. We went with the Select line as it was thicker and stiffer. (I believe the highest end Transcend line is also the same thickness as Select line but you are paying for a better looking (visual) and less prone to scratching plank). If you are going to do any type of boarder that is different color you will need to make sure you buy the same line or the height will be different where they meet. Enhanced is not the same thickness as Select and Transcend.

>>> Now to cost, I think you will find Lowes hard to beat for Trex IF you are ok with one of the stock colors they have as they buy in bulk and have sales on them. In other words, they only stock a couple of different colors to put in stores – if you like that color = great deal when on sale if you want something else, maybe not so much…

>>> Lastly – the boards were grooved on the sides to support the hidden fasteners (which were great) and then full square (no grooves) Lave Rock planks for the boarder.

This is what I recall but best to do your own investigation as you are doing…
We are very happy with the Trex Select Saddle Brown (sale at Lowes for ~$3 per foot) and a border of Transcend Lave Rock which was expensive but looks great.

[Water Camper]

Have a pressure treated deck at home here in Pembroke, NH. At least 30 years old. Have used Thompson Water Seal most years. About ready for replacement. splintering
Have a Trex deck up at the lake, at least 15 Years old. Don't treat, just wash each spring. Great shape, not hot on the feet.
Would definitely do the Trex again.

Hope this helps,
Bill

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by Water Camper

Have a pressure treated deck at home here in Pembroke, NH. At least 30 years old. Have used Thompson Water Seal most years. About ready for replacement. splintering
Have a Trex deck up at the lake, at least 15 Years old. Don't treat, just wash each spring. Great shape, not hot on the feet.
Would definitely do the Trex again.

Hope this helps,
Bill

We have a 20' Aluminum dock with 2x6 pressure treated top boards lifted with a winch. We extended it another 20' with an aluminum frame docking system with plastic boards that we have to put in and take out every year. In the middle of the summer the plastic is hot as hell!

[Descant]

Last year, we did major dock replacement. Started in May, expected to finish in June but the supplier ran out of the Trex we were using. A little bit trickled in over the summer, but not enough to justify sending a crew and equipment for a day's work and then moving to another location repeatedly. Finally finished in the fall. I don't know if Covid will continue to slow production, but I suggest you buy ALL needed materials up front instead of a little bit at a time as work and budget progress. At the same time, be aware of security if you're not constantly on site, as materials that sit alone tend to disappear.

[Winilyme]

...is what I plan to go with here in CT when we replace our 25 year old redwood deck. The redwood could last longer - especially if we could flip it and screw it down again. The odd dimensions of our deck however won't allow that and I've had it with the maintenance. By the way, redwood is amazingly durable but I don't think you can get it anymore in this part of the country.

Think, I'm a research guy like you so after much browsing on the Internet it came down to Trex or Azek. I've pretty much settled on Trex based on:

1. Trex does better in environments with significant seasonal temperature extremes.
2. Trex is more natural looking.
3. Trex is a more environmentally sustainable solution.
4. Trex is somewhat less prone to scratching.
5. Trex is less slippery and more closely resembles wood.

Can't say personally if these items are true or not but if you surf the web, these seem to be common experiences. What I haven't done yet is hire a contractor to build it so I'll listen to what they have to say before making a final call.

[LakeTimes]

Was looking into Azek because of this thread to learn more and came across this picture on their website. Small World. Right here on Governors Island. Small world sometimes. Great contrast between before and after:

Here's on their website:
https://www.timbertech.com/ideas/cool-deck-features/

If you click on the picture that looks like a slip, it brings you to their Instagram link (which is here):
https://www.instagram.com/p/ByusNABHFFM/

[GregW11]

We built a screened porch nearly three years ago. The porch has a deck above which is in sunshine all of the time and is directly under the house roof overhang (so catches falling icicles, etc.). We had Azek installed on both the upper deck and the porch floor. Both still look as good as the day they were installed. No maintenance; no sun bleaching. Highly recommended.

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[tis]

Originally Posted by GregW11

We built a screened porch nearly three years ago. The porch has a deck above which is in sunshine all of the time and is directly under the house roof overhang (so catches falling icicles, etc.). We had Azek installed on both the upper deck and the porch floor. Both still look as good as the day they were installed. No maintenance; no sun bleaching. Highly recommended.

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I totally agree with you Greg. I have said it all before and don't need to say again, I have tried them all and it is the best! Unless you don't mind constant upkeep or splinters, or extreme heat that burns your feet, the Azek is the way to go. I know so many like us have changed repeatedly until they end up with Azek and are finally happy.

[thinkxingu]

I've been told (a lot) to avoid hybrid decking options (wood encased in vinyl) as they'll mold over time. Does anyone have a list of lower end all vinyl options? There's so many brands and levels, it's crazy confusing.

What I guess I'm looking for is some of the less expensive all composite options. Thanks!

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[tis]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

I've been told (a lot) to avoid hybrid decking options (wood encased in vinyl) as they'll mold over time. Does anyone have a list of lower end all vinyl options? There's so many brands and levels, it's crazy confusing.

What I guess I'm looking for is some of the less expensive all composite options. Thanks!

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That is good advice. It does mold. I don't think any of it is very cheap right now. Availability is also an issue. Building materials are very hard to get right now. Things that used to be 2 or 3 days are starting to now be weeks out.

[thinkxingu]

I dunno, friends, I've researched and researched, but I keep coming back to the $28 16' Trex boards from Lowe's as a good enough value/savings to justify the "weaknesses"...

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[Biggd]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

I dunno, friends, I've researched and researched, but I keep coming back to the $28 16' Trex boards from Lowe's as a good enough value/savings to justify the "weaknesses"...

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Trex is fine, I've had it on one of my decks for 15 years with no issues. I just spray it down with bleach and water every few years and rinse clean.
You just have to make sure if you're putting it down on an old deck that it was built strong enough to support the extra weight.
When I built my first wooden deck 25 years ago, 12x24, I used 10" tubes for the footings. My son built a 14x16 deck with Trex 5 years ago and the building inspector made him use 16" tubes, which I thought was overkill but that's what he had to use to get the permit.

[Sue Doe-Nym]

We had a new 40’ Trex deck installed 2 years ago. The only question that we had was “why did we wait so long to do this?” We are pleased, and we got it at Lowe’s with a 10% military discount, which made it even sweeter.

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by Biggd

Trex is fine, I've had it on one of my decks for 15 years with no issues. I just spray it down with bleach and water every few years and rinse clean.
You just have to make sure if you're putting it down on an old deck that it was built strong enough to support the extra weight.
When I built my first wooden deck 25 years ago, 12x24, I used 10" tubes for the footings. My son built a 14x16 deck with Trex 5 years ago and the building inspector made him use 16" tubes, which I thought was overkill but that's what he had to use to get the permit.

Because the deck is only a couple feet above ground, it'll be easy to add extra support if necessary. Of course, I won't love the extra expense of PT wood, but if I can get into Trex at that price, it shouldn't be an issue.

Thanks for your thoughts!

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[Biggd]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Because the deck is only a couple feet above ground, it'll be easy to add extra support if necessary. Of course, I won't love the extra expense of PT wood, but if I can get into Trex at that price, it shouldn't be an issue.

Thanks for your thoughts!

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That's where you have to do a cost analysis, is it cheaper to use Trex and add extra support or use the lighter Azek.

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by Biggd

That's where you have to do a cost analysis, is it cheaper to use Trex and add extra support or use the lighter Azek.

Right, but best I can find, Azek is approximately double the price of Trex.

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[TheTimeTraveler]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Right, but best I can find, Azek is approximately double the price of Trex.

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Is Azek readily available these days in light of the Covid situation? I know some products are currently tough to come by.....

Also how much does Azek cost per board foot?

Does Azek offer a good color selection?

[tis]

Originally Posted by TheTimeTraveler

Is Azek readily available these days in light of the Covid situation? I know some products are currently tough to come by.....

Also how much does Azek cost per board foot?

Does Azek offer a good color selection?

All building materials are hard to get right now. It does have a great color selection.

[AC2717]

Originally Posted by tis

All building materials are hard to get right now. It does have a great color selection.

you are not kidding, had to get a piece of OSB plywood the other day. $43 more than triple the normal price

[tis]

Originally Posted by AC2717

you are not kidding, had to get a piece of OSB plywood the other day. $43 more than triple the normal price

Just wait. It gets worse every time! We think it's getting a little ridiculous. The mill workers are getting back to work and they should be catching up. I don't understand why anybody even wants to build now! It's crazy!

[Biggd]

Looks like my new deck is going to have to wait until fall or next spring.

[tis]

Originally Posted by Biggd

Looks like my new deck is going to have to wait until fall or next spring.

I would wait unless you are desperate.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by tis

I would wait unless you are desperate.

I'm going to repave the patio in the front of the house first. Pavers have gone up also, but not nearly as much as lumber.
We actually spend more time in the front of the house than the back because that's where the fire pit is and we can invite neighbors over that walk by, at least we did before Covid.

[tis]

Originally Posted by Biggd

I'm going to repave the patio in the front of the house first. Pavers have gone up also, but not nearly as much as lumber.
We actually spend more time in the front of the house than the back because that's where the fir pit is and we can invite neighbors over that walk by, at least we did before Covid.

Apparently because pavers are not selling. Glues and everything are going up. Caulking, it's awful.

[TheTimeTraveler]

Originally Posted by tis

Apparently because pavers are not selling. Glues and everything are going up. Caulking, it's awful.

I wonder if the price of glue is going up because there is a shortage of horses, or do they not make glue from Horse parts anymore ?

[tis]

The recent cold weather that hit Texas had major supply implications on the sealants, adhesives, and coatings industries. The Adhesive and Sealant Council (ASC) recently issued a statement that supply chains and inventories could take weeks or even months to recover. The images below show the impact better than anything I could write.

At the risk of getting a bit geeky, the high-level summary is that the base raw material (monomer) producer that supplies latex based chemical (polymer) producers has been operating at reduced levels, therefore creating downstream production shortages.

Unfortunately, (REMOVED NAME) has not been immune. We have received official announcements from multiple suppliers, invoking their Force Majeure clauses (which is a fancy way of saying that they are unable to fulfill supply contracts because of circumstances outside of their control) indicating that our supply of raw materials will be reduced for the next 60 - 120 days. Brands currently impacted include Big Stretch, CleanSeal, Mor-Flexx, Slab, eXact Color, and Conceal.

[thinkxingu]

With some help from iShoot, I think I might actually spend a bit more for Lumberock. I got the samples in, and it looks like it may be worth the increase.

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