Category Archives: PVC and capstock decking

AZEK, Composite, Fiberon, Low maintenace decks, PVC and capstock decking, Synthetic decks, TimberTech composite decks

AZEK vs. Fiberon vs. TimberTech for your Macon Warner Robins deck or porch?

July 8, 2013 admin

: Avoiding splinters and low maintenance were the two major requirements in picking composite for this deck in Warner Robins.

Which line is the best? AZEK? Fiberon? TimberTech? You probably guessed that the answer starts with… it depends. When synthetic woods first came out, they only had composite materials which combined wood fibers with plastic – hence the word composite. Some of the composite woods had problems based on the formulation and the materials that were used. Since then, the composites on the market today have the benefit of many years out on the market, product improvement, and enhanced designs.

Not only do low-maintenance composite products last longer but they are easier to clean. And, they provide a great warranty. TimberTech composite products are guaranteed against termites, checking, splitting, decay, rot and splintering for 25 years. Most synthetics are installed with a hidden fastener system to provide an outdoor space with a flawless finish.

: TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions line of Capstock decking.

Fiberon’s Horizon line’s warranty indicates it will not check, splinter, de-laminate, rot or suffer structural damage from fungal decay when installed and maintained correctly. Fiberon also comes in a wide range of colors and various realistic wood finishes complete with graining and undulation which rivals the look of real wood!

Since then, the synthetic wood products have evolved to include a higher end solid PVC and then a composite with a PVC coating. Solid PVC products are a bit more expensive than traditional composite. Many synthetic manufacturers offer solid PVC products, but the first to do solid PVC was AZEK. Solid PVC’s are stain, scratch and split resistant and are impervious to mold, mildew and damage associated with insects.

The greatest benefit is having the PVC on the outside. So, a capped product which consists of a composite core which is wrapped in a PVC coating, can really give you the best of composite and PVC all in one. TimberTech has an excellent capped product called TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions which comes in three distinct product colors; Tropical, Natural and Terrain.

: This stunning pool deck in Macon GA, was built using a combination of AZEK Morado and AZEK Acacia.

When it comes to choosing the best material for your anticipated deck or porch addition, what is best for you is dependent on your needs, your personal taste and your budget. Traditional composites work great in a myriad of applications and provide low maintenance qualities with less investment. Higher end, solid PVC materials deliver optimum results in a low maintenance material and perform especially well around backyard locales exposed to constant moisture, such as pool decks, and even docks.

Keep in mind that all synthetic materials are in it for the “long haul” as they are going to last 25 – 30 years or more – warrantied. So making an informed decision is crucial, and that is where Archadeck of Central GA can help. We can meet with you to discuss the benefits of choosing TimberTech, Fiberon or AZEK for your intended outdoor living space needs. I will provide samples for you to see and feel to help narrow down your choices to make the daunting task of choosing a synthetic an enjoyable experience. I can help you with deciding what type of outdoor living structure is the best fit for you and your family. I can give you guidance for making your choice on the materials, and Archadeck of Central GA stands behind what we do with our own warranty.

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia today to learn more about the many low maintenance outdoor living space material options available for your upcoming project. Call today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

To see more examples of the versatility and beauty of owning your own Central GA low maintenance deck or porch, visit our composite and PVC deck photo gallery and our porches photo gallery located on our website.

AZEK, PVC and capstock decking, Synthetic decks, TimberTech composite decks

Archadeck of Central Georgia explores the differences and similarities in TimberTech XLM and Earthwood Evolutions decking

December 11, 2012 admin

Archadeck Central GA round deck — This stunning rounded deck in Central Ga., was built with TimberTech decking and adds a worry -free, durable material to the already long list of positives in regards to this deck.

Many of our customers here are Archadeck of Central GA look for low-maintenance materials. Low-maintenance materials are available in decking boards, railing, trim, and many of the other building materials for decks, porches, pergolas and other outdoor structures. Of the low-maintenance materials, many customers are familiar with and request composite or synthetic decking. We work with a couple different brands including AZEK, Fiberon and TimberTech.

This week we are focusing on two of TimberTech’s heavy hitters; Earthwood Evolutions and TimberTech XLM. Each of these lines have a lot to offer when you are looking for a high-quality, low-maintenance decking materials.

TimberTech deck Hawkinsville GA Archadeck — This TimberTech deck by Archadeck of Central GA is located in beautiful Hawkinsville, GA.

TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions is what is referred to as a “capstock”composite decking material. This means that the boards have a composite core which is derived from plastic and wood fibers. This core is then wrapped, or capped, with a fully protected poly shell that protects the plank from everyday accidents endured by most decks. This line comes with a 25-year stain and fade warranty. One drawback to this product is since it is softer than a solid PVC product it can scratch more easily. Over time, these scratches will fade and TimberTech also recommends using a Minwax product on any scratches since capstock is neither harder nor softer than wood. A general rule of thumb to consider when dealing with capstock is if an outside influence is capable of scratching a wood decking board, then it is also capable of scratching your wrapped synthetic product too.

The Earthwood Evolutions line includes realistic looking planks in an array of hues with streaking and shading that mimic the look of exotic hardwoods. The colors include Brick, Brownstone, Slate, Pacific Rosewood, Pacific Teak, and Pacific Walnut. Although all of the colors are available some are easily found in stock and some must be special ordered. The special ordered materials are going to be slightly higher in cost. Be sure to ask

Color swatch for TimberTech earthwood evolutions — Color swatches for TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions

TimberTech XLM is another popular synthetic decking board. It is made of solid PVC, which means it doesn’t contain any natural wood fibers. This makes it harder and denser than regular composites or capped composite. Along with added strength and durability, XLM is also backed by one of the strongest stain and fade warranties in the industry. TimberTech XLM decking has a flat-grain surface which aids in being slip resistant which is a huge plus when used next to pools and spas. XLM colors include Mountain Cedar, River Rock, Sand Ridge, Rustic Bark, Harvest Bronze, Harbor Stone and Walnut Grove. This palette includes colors from white, to gray and many shades of brown offering enough diversity to suit any taste and match any color needs you may have.

Hawkinsville-GA round deck Archadeck — Another view of this stunning TimberTech rounded deck in Hawkinsville, Ga.

From a performance standpoint, the solid PVC attributes of XLM gives it the advantage. From a budgetary standpoint, XLM is heavier and a little more costly to ship from point A to point B than it’s lighter counterparts. To ensure you make the best decision for your individual needs and circumstances it is important to discuss your options with your outdoor structure professional.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you are looking for a low-maintenance decking plank that delivers on its promises, TimberTech is definitely leading the pack. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about this and other synthetic decking choices that will best suit your lifestyle. We can help you decide which product is the right fit for your outdoor living needs. Call us for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000.
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

You can see more example of synthetic decks including TimberTech and many others reputable brands by visiting our composite and PVC decking gallery located on our website.

AZEK, Composite, Deck builder, Fiberon, Low maintenace decks, PVC and capstock decking, Synthetic decks

AZEK vs. Fiberon, who will come out the winner?

October 1, 2012 admin

fiberon-deck-river north-macon GA Warner Robins — This Fiberon deck in River North mimics the color of Ipe without the maintenance and it is easier to clean than other composites.

This Fiberon deck in River North mimics the color of Ipe without the maintenance and it is easier to clean than other composites. As an outdoor structure builder I use many synthetic decking brands. My customers always ask me which brand is best. Each brand has its pro’s and con’s. Below is some information about 2 of the top brands we use.

AZEK vs. Fiberon

I drew a comparison on these brands because they’re both strong high-performance, low-maintenance brands that are attractive to boot. Here are some of the differences. Fiberon is a composite with a PVC wrap which means the thermal density is higher so it may retain more heat than AZEK does. In the hottest part of the day, both brands will retain heat, but AZEK cools off faster. AZEK is a full PVC product that does not contain any wood fibers. Wood fibers can cause a product to retain moisture and swell causing expansion and contraction. A good example of a structure that would be best suited to build from AZEK is a dock. Since Fiberon is a capped product it has exposed ends where the water from a dock or other structure can penetrate the ends and cause the decking boards to expand. This is only a concern if the material is going to be submerged or will be heavily exposed to water for long periods of time.

Each manufacturer has a wide variety of colors and patterns. Our local distributor carries the most popular color options. Fiberon popular colors include Ipe, Rosewood and Gray Birch. Among the most popular AZEK colors are Morado, Acacia, Cobre, and Tahoe (which is a gray). AZEK also comes in a white that is often used on rail caps.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

All of today’s composites simulate the undulation, streaking and graining of natural wood to some degree. The methodology behind achieving this true-to-life look of wood is different with each brand. The wood grain pattern apparent on AZEK is indented. The Fiberon pattern uses a raised pattern to achieve undulation and graining. Fiberon contains more streaking, which mimics the look of tropical hardwoods such as Ipe.

Though both AZEK and Fiberon are low-maintenance and stain resistant, Fiberon is often easier to keep clean. Cleaning AZEK requires more work to get down into the grooves where the dirt can gather. Fiberon also offers an economy-grade composite that is PVC on only one side and offers some of the same benefits of traditional Fiberon. This makes a great alternative to homeowners that are on a set budget but still want a quality low-maintenance decking product.

AZEK Morado deck — This deck was built using the Morado color in the Arbor collection by AZEK.

In closing, keep in mind there is no perfect decking that will be all things to all homeowners. Individual opinions and needs will determine which decking choice is right for you. Since most of the low-maintenance brands have very similar features and benefits, aesthetics are often the determining factor.

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about Fiberon and AZEK and which choice is right for your new outdoor living structure. We offer many other decking choices such as hardwood and traditional pressure treated wood as well. Call us for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

See more examples of low-maintenance decks by visiting our composite, vinyl and PVC deck gallery located on our website.

Deck builder, Low maintenace decks, PVC and capstock decking, Synthetic decks

An AZEK synthetic deck is low maintenance and nice looking to boot

August 6, 2012 admin

There have been many advances in composite/synthetic decking since it debuted on the market. For one, the category was previously classified as composite decking when the products within the category were all a “composite” of wood and plastic. Since then, the category was reclassified as “synthetic” products were introduced such as decking boards made of solid PVC. Now, the term “synthetics” captures composite and man made materials as well as the a new hybrid board.

Composite decking was the first synthetic material to hit the scene. It consists of a wood pulp blended with plastic for added strength and durability. Composite is readily used today and still provides a stronger and lower maintenance deck than that of pressure treated, and other woods commonly used in decking.

A new product called capstock is composite that is wrapped with a durable layer of vinyl PVC around a composite core. Many in the industry refer to it as a “composite hybrid”.

Chippendale patterned deck in Midgeville, GA — Intricately detailed features such as this Chippendale patterned deck in Milledgeville, GA respond beautifully with the use of capstock synthetic decking.

Synthetic decking has the highest level or performance. While composite provides protection from splitting, splintering, rotting, termites or fungal decay, synthetic PVC decking provides all of these protections and also provides protection from stains and fading.

At the top of the solid PVC list is AZEK decking. AZEK is a solid PVC which is stain and scratch resistant. This includes resistance to scratches made from patio furniture and pets. It will also stand up to the all-American cook out better than any synthetic on the market because it is resistant to spills like grease, ketchup and even red wine. AZEK is highly recommended for use around pools, spas and even on piers and docks because it is impervious to moisture as well as insects because it is constructed of solid PVC. This material is also split resistant and mold and mildew resistant as well. A deck built with AZEK is truly the deck that keeps on giving year after year.

Synthetic decking is not the perfect choice for everyone. One major objection is the initial cost vs. the cost of pressure treated southern yellow pine decking. However, if you are going to live with the deck or porch for more than 5 to 7 years the cost of paying someone to maintain the decking will be recouped. And afterwards you are saving money!

Once upon a time, synthetic decking had limited color choice options which was a drawback for homeowners. That is not the case with modern synthetics. In our area the two most popular colors are Acacia and Morado, which are both part of AZEK’s Arbor Collection. Each one of the AZEK colors has graining and undulation that mimics the look of real hardwoods beautifully. Acacia is a stunning, rich dark brown and Morado is a mid-tone that is similar to the look of antique walnut. We are also starting to see their new color Cobre come into the spotlight with its tan-brown appearance that we anticipate will be the next most requested AZEK color.

Choose a beautiful deck with longevity to give you more time to enjoy outdoor living at its best. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about AZEK, and the many other high-quality synthetic decking choices we offer. We can ensure you will be enjoying your new deck rather than maintaining it.
Call for a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more stunning synthetic decks and view the many options we have available to suit your lifestyle and your wallet by visiting our composite and Vinyl (PVC) deck photo gallery located on our website.

AZEK, Composite, Deck builder, Free deck safety inspection, PVC and capstock decking, Synthetic decks

Archadeck of Central Georgia looks at the many faces of synthetic decking

April 23, 2012 admin Leave a comment

Warner Robins GA composite deck — This composite deck in Warner Robins, GA exemplifies the beauty of composites.

Among the many options available when choosing the materials for your new deck or re-deck, synthetic decking is often one of the top choices. Within synthetic decking, there are quite a range of choices and all are not the same. Synthetic decking comes in many colors, finishes, dimensional designs and brands. Synthetic decking includes composite decking, solid PVC and capstock decking, each one of which has certain similarities as well as differences. We have outlined each of of the three below.

Composite decking

Your traditional wood/plastic composite material, such as TimberTech, Trex , and Fiberon composites, have a combination of wood fiber and resin. This pairing of wood and plastic sets the stage for durability that wood has never been able to provide. TimberTech’s Reliaboard for example, resists splintering and rotting and never requires staining or painting. These 1st generation composites are very economical as well. The downside is that since there is the presence of wood, stains can occur. Wine, oil and grease can stain the deck because of the wood, the board is porous. High traffic areas are also a concern and are prone to mark over time . Making sure your deck builder uses a high-quality composite decking material, such as the ones mentioned above is critical. These products are covered by warranties that exceed those of any wooden deck on the market, so rest assured composite itself is a solid choice for decking.

Fiberon deck in Macon GA — This Fiberon deck in Macon, GA includes a custom pergola in the design.

Solid PVC decking

Solid PVC decking such as AZEK is impervious to just about anything you can dish out. From red wine, to grease from your grill and even the kid’s fruit punch. This cellular PVC product offers superior stain resistance, scratch resistance, fade resistance, and split resistance. It is also insect, and mold/mildew resistant. There is never a worry from your patio furniture or your pet scratching your deck with solid PVC. The only downfall is that since it is solid PVC (plastic) it may not look as authentic as natural wood. We use a large amount of AZEK decking and our customers love it. AZEK even offers a line of railing to compliment their large color selection.

Capstock decking

Capstock is what we also refer to as a wrapped or covered product. This takes the benefits of composite as the core and wraps it with a PVC covering. This product can be seen in the Fiberon Horizon line. Capstock uses the best of both worlds through superior stain, fade, scratch, and insect resistance and still giving you the beauty of real wood. The veining and colorations used in the Trex Transcends line are so realistic and beautiful it will leave you having to lean in a little closer to see whether or not the product is real wood with hues that even mimic the look of exotic Ipe, and other tropical hardwoods.

Composite deck Chippendale pattern Milledgeville GA — We installed this Milledgeville, GA composite deck using a unique Chippendale pattern.

No matter which of these synthetics you choose to build your dream deck, each one is packed with versatility and beauty. Choosing a synthetic doesn’t need to be incredibly expensive. Archadeck of Central Georgia is a trusted and respected leader in the community. We have the experience to consult effectively with our customers on material selections. We are well-versed and really know the business of synthetics top to bottom. We can help you select and choose the right material to suit your needs, your lifestyle and your budget.

Contact us today to learn more about synthetic and other outdoor living material options. Call for a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more beautiful images of synthetic decks by visiting our composite and PVC deck gallery located on our website.

Macon Warner Robins Decks, Patios, Porches, Pergolas, Gazebos and more