Fencing & Decking

As mentioned above, an early problem with composite decking material was its tendency to attract mold, especially when placed in shady areas. Unlike vinyl, composite lumber contains organic material, which is susceptible to decay.

Going local is probably the smartest thing to do when it comes to composite decking. That’s because local manufacturers take regional weather into account when designing new products. For example, homeowners based in the Northwest should look for products that are mold resistant and stand up to the astonishing temperature shifts this region is notorious for. WestStar is a favored brand in the Northwest. Made entirely of recycled materials, WestStar includes a mold inhibitor so it won’t rot as quickly as other brands. WestStar lumber also has a non-skid finish, which alleviates the slickness found in other composites. Finally, WestStar lasts because it’s made of HDPE plastics. If something should go wrong, WestStar offers a strong warranty against checking, insect or termite damage and splintering.

Whichever brand you choose, see if deck clips may be used to fasten the deck. In traditional deck construction, screws are driven down into the joists. This technique results in strong decks, but moisture can seep into the area around the screws, which can lead to mold, mildew, and structural weakness. Deck clips turn this whole problem on its head by screwing in not from the top, but from the bottom.