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| Decking
today comes in many different materials, complicated
even more by new fastening systems. As a home
owner it will be a substantial investment for
you to have a new deck built or an old deck renovated.
As many companies have rushed to compete in this
growing market it has become all too painfully
obvious some of these very expensive products
couldn’t deliver on their promises. This
has left many people afraid of composite systems
all together; even many carpenters share this
fear. It takes a substantial amount of effort
to investigate all these products and determine
the pros and cons of each one. We at All American
Exterior understand the responsibility we have
accepted by the trust you have bestowed upon us
and hope you find this information helpful! |
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| Pressure-treated
- Pressure treated deck boards are pine boards
preserved with chromated copper arsenate (CCA)
has been phased out by the EPA. Alternative treatments
use copper azole (CBA) or alkaline copper quatenary
(ACQ). As with all woods it requires washing and
staining annually. Pressure-treated decks can
last up to 30 years with diligent up keep. Watch
out for “dip-treated” look-alikes! Some
contractors will use dip treated lumber to save
money and they are prone warping, cracking, shrinking,
cupping and rotting more than any other decking
material. |
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| Natural woods
- Cedar deck boards are the softest, Redwood deck
boards are harder than cedar, mahogany deck boards
are harder still and teak deck boards are the
hardest yet. Cedar decks, redwood decks, mahogany
decks and teak decks are the most common among
the natural wood decking material. They naturally
resist insects and decay. Again, listed in order
from the softest to the hardest; cedar, redwood,
mahogany then teak. Meaning cedar deck boards
are far easier to mar or dent than teak deck boards.
This order also runs true, in our area, of the
cost of the deck project. Treat these decks with
a mildewcide and ultraviolet inhibitor to boost
durability. These decks can last up to twenty
years with annual washing and sealing. If maintenance
has been done diligently these materials can last
a lifetime. |
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| Wood/Plastic
Composites - These composite deck boards are
made by mixing wood flour or saw dust with plastic
resins (PVC) and extruded into deck boards and
accessories. These materials still require a wood
frame for support. Manufacturers of these deck
boards claim they cut and machine like wood but
won’t rot, warp or splinter. Some of these
boards though will absorb water and start to “grow”
causing cupping and warping. Also, because they
are relatively young on the market some other
application issues have came into light. Because
of this it is very important that these products
are researched to the fullest before making your
decision. These decks usually carry a warrantee
of 10 years to life and the only maintenance is
a little soap and water when necessary. |
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| Extruded
Vinyl - Some brands of vinyl decking have blind
fastening systems while other brands are just
a vinyl cap over wood boards. You can also get
vinyl deck boards with diamond grid patterns so
they are slip resistant. Vinyl deck boards should
last a lifetime while the vinyl cap products last
about 30 years. This is another product where
a little soap and water when needed will do for
the maintenance. |
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| Rubber
Composites - Rubber composite deck boards
are made from a mix of polyethylene resins and
recycled tires, this heavy manufactured board
was first engineered for commercial projects.
At this time rubber composite deck boards are
offered in terra-cotta, grey and black. It comes
in smooth or a natural traction surface. Withstands
extreme heat and cold while resisting insects
and sun rays. Clean with soap and water when needed.
Rubber composite decks have about a 25 year life
expectancy. |
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| Plastic
Composites - Plastic composite decking consists
of polystyrene extruded into deck boards and accessories.
Plastic composite decking will last up to 50 years
with only soap and water necessary for maintenance.
As with all composite decking it requires a wood
structure for support. |
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| Metal
decking - Aluminum alloy decking is manufactured
in lengths up to 28 feet. Aluminum decking forms
a watertight surface, which can be very beneficial
for upper level decks and balconies. This product
is available in four colors and should last a
lifetime. Maintenance in minimal with only soap
and water needed when the deck needs cleaning. |
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| If you
would like additional information, or would like
to speak to an All-American representative please
Contact Us! |
