Decking

  • Source: REMODELING Magazine
  • Publication date: 2007-02-01
  • Fiber Composites. Fiberon Professional and Fiberon Tropics decking are now available in versions with factory-milled grooves along the sides of each board to accept the Phantom Hidden Deck Fastener, allowing for a fastener-free deck surface and quicker installation. Phantom fasteners are specifically designed for Fiberon deck boards by Tiger Claw. The fasteners install from the top of the deck and are constructed from heavy gauge stainless steel. 704.463.7120. www.fibercomposites.com.

    L.B. Plastics. With a remarkable wood-like appearance and strong weatherability, SheerGrain decking rivals the appearance of a freshly stained wood deck with less upkeep. Backed by a lifetime warranty, the virtually maintenance-free material contains no wood and will not rot, absorb moisture, stain, or fade, the maker says. A one-piece tongue-and-groove design with hidden fasteners offers easy installation using one screw per joist. 800.752.7739. www.lbplastics.com.

    Tiger Claw. The TC-G is a new hidden deck fastener for pre-grooved decking materials, composites, and hardwoods. The fastener, made from .06-inch thick annealed 304 stainless steel, is designed to eliminate the need for conventional plastic biscuits currently used in deck building. It offers superior hold-down strength, according to the manufacturer. 800.928.4437. www.deckfastener.com.

    Trex. Featuring a bold new grain pattern, TrexCountours boards have a structured profile for light weight, durability, and performance, according to the manufacturer. Designed to appeal to hardcore wood lovers, the profile is narrower at 5 inches, but requires the same spans and installations as Trex 5/4 boards. The boards will be available in Winchester grey and reddish-brown Madeira. 800.289.8739. www.trex.com.

    Railing Dynamics. The wood-plastic composite technology of the Novaline railing system features a patented oriented long-strand wood fiber for greater strength and wood content than other composites. Two customizable, upgradeable base kits include a white co-extruded system or an unfinished wood composite that can be painted or stained. Copper or stainless steel accents are also available. All Novaline systems are non-toxic, recyclable, and require minimal hardware and no special tools. 877.420.7245. www.rdrail.com.

    AERT. Made from recycled wood fiber encapsulated in recycled polyethylene, ChoiceDek is virtually maintenance free and suitable for decks, docks, playgrounds, and more. Independent testing shows no need for staining, sealing, or treating, the maker says, adding that the composite material resists salt water, splintering, and denting. Carbide blades and bits are recommended for working the boards, which come in two sizes and in lengths from 8 feet to 20 feet. Available in gray, redwood, sandstone, and woodtone colors, complementary railings, posts, post caps, handrails, and balusters complete the look. 800.951.5117. www.choicedek.com.

    Swan Secure Products. Designed for composite decking, the Dexxter screw features a unique thread form that removes exhaust while driving to prevent “mushrooming.” The screws are available in 305 and 316 grade stainless steel and come in 1½-, 2½-, and 3-inch lengths. A six-lobe drive prevents stripping of the recess and the small head diameter is available painted to match most composite decking colors. 800.966.2801. www.swansecure.com.

    TimberTech. Earthwood decking planks and fascia are now available in tropical rosewood and tropical teak colorways, joining tropical walnut. The Earthwood Grooved Plank, also available in all three colors, allows for the use of a hidden fastener system, providing homeowners with a clean deck surface. The dark brown-painted CONCEALoc stainless steel fastener system is less noticeable and complements the Earthwood colors. 800.307.7780. www.timbertech.com.

    For more product information, visit ebuild, Hanley Wood's interactive product catalog, at remodelingmagazine.com or ebuild.com.