As the trend toward exterior living spaces serving as an extension of the interior continues, manufacturers offer up a host of products designed with designers in mind. Decorative railings, grain and color options, drainage systems and concealed fasteners are available to make the deck visually appealing and user-friendly.

Today, Americans are busier than ever before, so a deck that is virtually maintenance free is almost a necessity. Composite and PVC deckings are high quality products with the added benefits of being easy to clean and resistant to damage.

CorrectDeck CX ultra-low maintenance composite decking features Microban anti-microbial protection for added resistance to mold and mildew. The product’s co-extruded top layer encases the exposed wood fibers on the top and sides of each board for resistance to color fading and staining. CorrectDeck CX is available in colors including sand, coastal gray, pebble and sage.

“Like individual strands of a rope make the rope stronger, Strandex technology makes Latitudes Decking and Railing stronger,” says Chris Fox, marketing manager for Universal Forest Products. “Strandex technology offers superior protection against UV degradation and water absorption because every “strand” of wood fiber is encased in high-density polyethylene. Because Latitudes uses Strandex, you can be assured that you’re getting the highest quality composite product available.”
Fiberon Sanctuary Decking consists of a cellular PVC (or foamed PVC) core with no fiber fillers, which eliminates edge cracking, stain retention and water absorption. This core is surfaced with a layer of ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate) so it resists fading, and abrasions. Added to this is a proprietary process that uses unique color tones from a blend of light and dark hues for the natural variations found in real wood.

SheerGrain by L. B. Plastics is created using the company’s proprietary SheerGrain Technology, a copolymer blend whose main ingredient is acrylic. The use of acrylic delivers fade-resistance and long-term weathering and heat dissipation.

SheerGrain Decking does not absorb moisture and does not promote mold growth. SheerGrain is naturally resistant to common stains such as grease, mustard and spilled drinks. SheerGrain is engineered for scratch resistance and the impact of everyday living.