Long on life span and short on fuss, these man-made boards never splinter, rot, or need staining. The TOH team explains everything you need to know about selecting, installing, and caring for this thoroughly modern material
What's it cost? Run-of-the-mill boards start at $4 per square foot, while the premium products that closely resemble tropical wood run up to $7.20 per square foot.
What's the warranty? Most manufacturers offer either a 25-year or limited-lifetime warranty on structural integrity; some warranties are transferable from one homeowner to another. Fading, scratches, and stains usually aren't covered.
How much care? Less than wood. A simple scrubbing with soapy water and a soft bristle brush is usually all that's needed.
Not just decking. Everything you need to finish a deck—fascia boards, railings, balusters, treads, and posts—is made in matching colors using the same composite material.
Does it burn? Yes, but at a much higher temperature than wood. Most composites meet California's strict Wildland-Urban Interface Building Code.
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