Composite Decking Has Come a Long Way provided by ServiceMagic.com.

When composite decking first hit the market around 25 years ago, it was heralded as the best thing to happen to deck building since decking screws. That enthusiasm was short-lived, however, as some significant flaws in the material began to surface after it was in circulation a few years. The most common complaints were that it scratched easily, sagged, and warped over time, and in some cases, developed mold and mildew problems. We are happy to report that the composite decking industry has put the majority of these problems behind them. By buying from reputable manufacturers and following their instructions for installation and care, homeowners purchasing composite decking can rest easy knowing they're getting one of the best decking products on the market.

Research Brands Carefully
Because cheaply manufactured composite decking can still present homeowners with a host of problems, it's very important that you research the company who makes your composite decking before making your purchase. Generally, it's best to go with the industry leaders rather than to try to cut corners. Trex decking, for example, has been around since the very beginning. They've put 25 years of research, development, and practical experience into their product and stand by it accordingly. Trex decking might cost you a little more per linear foot to install than a new, no-name brand, but their 25 year, transferable, limited warranty speaks for itself. That's a better warranty than you'll get on a wood deck, even cedar and redwood, by about 15 years.

More to Choose From
Another early complaint with composite decking was the limited choices that were offered when it came to style and color. Again, advancing technology and a maturing industry have made shopping for composite decking material a real pleasure. The largest, well known, composite decking companies offer several different product lines and colors to choose from. Trex decking, for example, currently has four different lines that, all together, come in 12 different colors. Add to that advances in stamping and rolling technology that bring out imitation wood grain and texture on the boards, and you can now purchase composite decking that is virtually indistinguishable from the real thing.