Tongue and Groove Composite Decking: An Overview

PVC Porch Decking

When it comes to decking, homeowners and contractors often seek materials that combine aesthetics, durability, and ease of installation. Tongue and groove composite decking has been a popular choice for its seamless look and straightforward installation. However, it’s crucial to understand its characteristics and limitations, especially in comparison to alternatives like PVC tongue and groove …

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The Best PVC Decking: A Deep Dive into TimberTech’s Advanced PVC Decking Lines

TimberTech Glass Railing

When it comes to outdoor decking, PVC stands out as a top choice for its durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Among the leading brands, TimberTech’s Advanced PVC decking lines are particularly notable and the brand that we recommend to our customers. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best PVC decking options available, focusing …

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Understanding PVC Decks: Pros and Cons

TimberTech Coastline

When it comes to choosing decking material for your outdoor space, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decks have become a popular option. But like any material, it has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of PVC decks to help you make an informed decision. Pros of PVC Decks Cons of PVC Decks …

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Composite Decking vs. PVC Decking

When it comes to choosing a decking material for your outdoor living space, there are several options available in the market. However, two of the most popular materials are composite decking and PVC decking. Both composite and PVC decking offer many benefits over traditional wood decking, such as durability, low maintenance, and long-lasting beauty. In …

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What is Capstock Decking? New Composite Decking Review

Composite PVC Decking - capstock
Is the new composite decking option right for you?

You might have heard about the latest type of composite decking. There are multiple decking brands using what’s known in the plastic industry as “capstock.”

What is Capstock decking? Basically, Capstock is a new kind of composite decking material that combines composites (plastic and wood fiber core) with a “durable” exterior layer of vinyl (PVC). Think of it as a composite and PVC deck hybrid.

Like with most new products in the decking market, the companies that sell this kind of synthetic decking are doing their best by spending millions of dollars  to convince you that, FINALLY, this is a composite wood product you can trust. These brands are also trying their best to convince you and deck builders across the country that it is “as good as, or better” than natural hardwood decking in terms of durability and looks.

They even offer a 25-year warranty on their product. However, if you’ve done research, you will learn that, for many, composite decking warranties aren’t worth the paper they’re printed on. Many people complain and have sued these artificial decking companies for not complying with the terms of their warranties.

Ironically, even a reputable publication like Professional Deck Builder says about the latest trend in capstock composite decking, “The lengthy warranties – most up to 25 years – indicate that manufacturers stand behind these products (though perhaps you’ve heard that before).” That’s a direct quote, folks. Even the home-building press is skeptical about these products and for good reason.

Another interesting fact that arose out of our research is the resistance of all composite decking companies to disclose the chemical makeup of their new decking materials. In fact, when FineHomebuilding Magazine was conducting their own research into these products for their article entitled “In Pursuit of the Perfect Plank” the author noted, “None of the manufacturers I spoke with would reveal what was in their proprietary polymer.” Why is that?

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A Vinyl Deck that Uses PVC Can Be Hazardous

According to the Healthy Building Network’s report on PVC in Buildings, “PVC is the worst plastic from an environmental health perspective, posing major hazards in its manufacture, product life, and disposal.” That’s not some sales guy talking here. The HBN is making this statement because of a chemical used in PVC and vinyl decking called …

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