Trex Vs Timbertech

Winner: Trex

You won’t have that problem if you choose composite decking instead. The only thing you need to do with the product is to clean it periodically with some soap and water. That means you can spend more time enjoying the deck instead of taking care of it. This advantage applies in all environments and terrain options as well, so every homeowner can enjoy the ease of use. Composite decking vs. wood, which is better for your deck project?

Synthetic wood continues to grow in popularity, especially for use on backyard decks and other outdoor structures. Also known as composite lumber or synthetic decking, synthetic wood is typically made of wood shavings that are bound together by a glue and pressure, much like pressed wood. These planks are then sheathed in plastic or a compound containing a combination of plastic, resin and wood fiber. The quality of the sheathing often determines how much or little moisture the synthetic wood board will absorb and thus how susceptible it might be to slip and fall conditions. If you have a little more time on your hands, you can apply various treatments to your decking timber to help prevent the surface from becoming slippery. While non-slip paints and varnishes work well in the short term, they tend to start flaking off before long.

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Wood is more likely to have smooth spots created by wear; such spots may be slippery when wet. Most brands of composite decking have textured finishes to make them slip-resistant. Water and ice accumulation from rain and snow may create slippery conditions on any deck surface. While composite decks can help resist rotting and are considered more durable than wood, it doesn’t mean they’re completely safe from damage. Patio furniture or debris from a passing storm may scratch the surface. Unlike wood, which you can sand and refinish, composite decking can’t be refinished, but in general – you shouldn’t need to. Depending on your budget and the needs of your project there are lots of options available.

And there are things you can do to increase the surface traction. SlipDoctors’ Floor Grip is an effective roll-on anti-slip coating ideal for slippery composite decking surfaces. This clear, water-based urethane sealer was designed for creating an anti-slip coating on vinyl, vinyl composition tile , interior wood, cork, laminate, linoleum surfaces, and more. Floor Grip will increase traction dramatically and is a great solution for human feet and dog paws to prevent slipping. What are Veranda Composite Decking and Railing made of? Our composite decking products consist of wood and plastic with a rich, realistic woodgrain. The downside is that plastic lumber doesn't look much like wood.

And some products, particularly the hollow ones, make a noisy clatter when walked on. "It's just too 'plastic-y' for many people," says Marc Richmond, project manager for the Green Builder program in Austin, Texas. Sunlight will fade the color of a plastic deck board and eventually cause its surface to turn chalky. "A redwood-color deck can become too hot to walk on barefoot," says Cynthia Kravitz, vice president of Phoenix Recycled Plastics.

Your final cost will depend on different factors and features that you want to have on your boards, such as scratch resistance or UV protection. That means you can select a product that works well for your geographic location without compromising how you use it each day. Every homeowner can customize their deck based on the grade and included features that they want to have in their base product. This man-made product includes about a 50/50 mix of recycled wood fibers and recycled plastic. These materials make the product almost impervious to rot, which means there are fewer needs to sand, stain, and seal the boards to preserve their lifespan.

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A deck built with today’s composite materials is resistant to wear and tear, fading, color change and damage from the elements, especially water. Be especially careful when researching composite products; some reviews may be outdated. Be sure you are reading reviews that evaluate the latest products and technology.

• Sometimes slippage is caused by mold on the deck surface.
• According to Richmond, who installs plastic and composite decks, all-plastic planks seem to be a little more slippery than regular wood, whereas composites are not.
• “Most plastic boards are smoother on top than composites, which have a rough texture to improve slip resistance,” he says.
• It is important to note that soap and water are used daily for regular cleaning to keep the decking clean.

I have a hot tub on it and there has never been a problem with it being slippery. Two things to remember, all composite decking is not the same, high and low. The above information is great, especially the transferrable warranty, but what about the dangers? Most people don’t realize, in terms of safety, that composite decks are actually more dangerous than lumber found at a big box store due to the manufacturing process and materials. Yes, composite decking is easier to clean and lasts for many years. But it’s also susceptible to mold, mildew, and regular wear and tear.

Slip & Fall Problems Areas On Synthetic Wood

With TimberTech you can build a dream wood-composite deck with confidence. Available products include wood-plastic composite, capped composite, and PVC composite, all available in earth or other natural tones. TimberTech maintains its color and elegance for years without the need of annual painting or staining. And it resists mildew, warping and insects, removing the need to replace rotting, uneven or termite-damaged boards.

How To Stop Decking Being Slippery In Winter

The 2012 Trex Installation Guide addresses the issue of a slippery composite decking surface in the following manner. Like any major home purchase, decking materials vary in looks, durability, and cost.