Composite Decking Debate...
leopardgoddess
17 years ago
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demark
17 years agolast modified: 9 years agogorillabuilder
17 years agolast modified: 9 years agoRelated Discussions
Composite vs real wood deck in new construction build?
Comments (21)We opted to go with concrete. I didn't stamp it since most other decks/patios I've seen that were stamped collect and hold dirt in the grooves. We also didn't stain it since that option tends to need to be repeated once traffic areas wear through. You also have to keep the surface of the concrete clean from spills and stains during the build. Everywhere something spills is a spot where the stain may not adhere. Instead of all of that we worked with the concrete company and had our concrete colored. They added color dye to the entire batch of concrete and when it was poured it had a nice mellow brown tone. This blended in nicely with the house. Almost all of the synthetic wood decks I've seen have their issues. Some can be simply keeping them cleaned and free from mold, others I've seen suffered from sagging and swelling. All of them require some type of maintenance. We're going on two years and I've done absolutely nothing to our suspended concrete deck, patio, or covered concrete patio below. They are solid and sound. Not sure if you can utilize concrete or not, but look into seeing if your concrete company will add dye, maybe another option for you. FWIW - I would never install a wood deck - way too much maintenance....See Morethe never-ending deck finishing debate
Comments (16)I bought a new house in Amherst,MA with a "maple" hardwood floor and a "mahogany" deck. The U.S. Forest Service laboratory analyzed the deck wood and told me it was not mahogany, but cambara, which is NOT mahogany. The "maple" result is not back yet, but it is definitely a softer wood. So...I'm curious...why do you call cambara mahogany? Also, I was told by the builder that the deck didn't need refinishing, as "mahogany" looked better weathered. This seems not to be the case, however, and I now need to do something as it is deteriorating after just 2 MA winters. Thompson Mahogony's website sells "Messmer's UV Plus"...any other recommendations?...See MoreOpinions on PVC Capped Composite Decking?
Comments (3)Thermo treated is hardley new. I question " without the enviromental negatives " you speak of the thermal energy foot print of this material is vast. We are talking 8/9 hours in a high temp/ steam kiln. Hardly inviro in anyone's book. The energy involved with this material would be better used growing 25 ipe trees with change coming back. JonMon...See MoreOutside deck looking for an outdoor rug. For composite deck.
Comments (7)Love the suggested rugs. Diane, we just built a composite deck and the manufacturer says to only use natural fiber rugs (ie. Jute...). Not many options there. Did you get a synthetic rug and did you have any issues? Also curious - what brand of decking material? Thanks in advance....See Morejasonmi7
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