How Composite Decking Manufacturers Differ

As consumer acceptance of composite decking has grown, many different manufacturers have sprung up to meet the demand. But the quality of lumber they produce can vary drastically. Here are some key areas in which composite deck brands can differ:

Wood-to-plastic ratio. Because composite decking is made from a mixture of wood and plastic, manufacturers can vary when it comes to how much of each substance is used. Many manufacturers use an equal blend of wood and plastic, while some brands contain up to 70% wood. Because wood absorbs moisture, a lower wood level means the final product will be less susceptible to mold and rot.

Type of plastic used. Plastic is what gives composite decking its enhanced durability, but not all plastics are equally strong. The hardiest composite decks made using recycled materials contain High Density PolyEthylene (HDPE) plastics, which come from hefty materials such as milk jugs, detergent containers and soda bottles. HDPE plastics don’t disintegrate as easily as weaker plastics, resulting in a longer-lasting deck.

Appearance. A common complaint about composite decking has been its plastic-like appearance. However, advances in the manufacturing process have allowed some companies to produce decks with a finish that simulates the look of wood. Ask to see samples of the material before you buy, and examine them outdoors to get an accurate idea of what your deck will look like.

Use of recycled materials. What makes composite decking environmentally friendly is that it can be fabricated from recycled materials, which means fewer resources are used. Both the wood and the plastic in composite lumber can come from recycled sources, but not all manufacturers take advantage of this benefit.

Depending on the brand, composite decking can include 100% recycled content or 100% virgin materials. WestStar, a composite decking brand made specifically for the challenging Pacific Northwest weather, is made from 100% recycled materials. Many other manufacturers fall somewhere in-between.

In a 2005 plastic lumber survey, The Healthy Building Network rated the environmental preferability of products manufactured by 44 plastic and composite lumber companies. Several popular brands, including Trex Decking and TimberTech, earned a “less environmentally preferable” rating for using less than 50% recycled content. Rhino Deck, another well-known brand, earned an “environmentally preferable” rating for using a higher proportion of recycled materials.

Northwest Weather Resistance

Depending on how it’s made, composite decking can react differently in different climates. In the Pacific Northwest, moisture protection is the largest threat a deck will face, whereas homeowners in the arid Southwest will have a bigger problem with sun exposure. That’s why it’s important to carefully examine the differences between manufacturers before choosing a brand.

Northwest homeowners have the option of choosing a brand of composite decking that’s specifically manufactured to hold up under intense rain. WestStar decking is made with a mold inhibitor to enhance protection against mold and mildew—a common problem for composite decks.

Other benefits of WestStar decking include:

• It’s made from 100% recycled content.
• It includes only HDPE plastics.
• It has a 50/50 wood to plastic ratio, to ensure the maximum benefits of each.
• It includes a full, 20-year warranty, with coverage against checking, splintering and insect and termite damage.