Composite deck is now a smart choice
Q: My wood deck sits in the sun all day with no shade. It's treated lumber and requires sealing every other year. I've tried lots of different sealers, all with the same results. I'm tired of the work and need some resurfacing ideas.
I wonder if you have any experience with exotic hardwoods like Tigerwood. My husband and I are also considering composite decking, but it's pricey. What would you do? — Diane K., Morgantown, WV
A: I've built countless wood decks of all sizes and shapes, and I've used all sorts of different wood species. The exotic hardwoods are some of the hardest to install because many are so hard and dense, you have to pre-drill all of the fastener holes. Keep that in mind as you consider your options, and by all means, get a sample and play with it to see how hard it would be to install.
My guess is that a majority of the wood decks out there have treated wood decking and railing systems. Currently, treated wood is the least expensive material to use. However, as you're aware, regular painting, staining or sealing is a pain.
Even the best deck sealing products don't hold up well against harsh UV light. I did extensive testing of many major brands of deck sealers about four years ago. Some failed within 90 days. The best one lasted two years before it started to peel a little bit. By the end of year three, that sealer looked bad enough that it was time to strip it and start over. That's a huge amount of work.
This is why many homeowners, including me, have gravitated to composite decking and railing systems. These materials have been around for almost two decades, and a few of the manufacturers have worked out the kinks.
The majorbrand composite decking I installed at my home last year has a core that is a blend of wood fiber and plastic, but the top wear surface and the edges are capped with vinyl. It's embossed and has coloration to simulate real wood grain.
Samples don't look that appealing, but once the product is installed, it really does look realistic. My wife, a harsh critic of synthetic building products, even approves.
I'd recommend that you take a serious look at all of the top-ofthe-line composite deck products and see if one appeals to you. (Be sure to select one that has a hidden fastening system.) You won't regret switching over.