Developments in Decking

According to Patti Pellock, CertainTeed deck and railing marketing manager, “In 2008, CertainTeed is adding a new almond color to its EverNew vinyl decking product line. CertainTeed also offers a complete product line of EverNew railing systems which include vinyl reinforced with aluminum, PVC-capped composite and a new aluminum railing system. The new aluminum railing system, named Durham, features a unique beveled rail design and spring-pin construction and is available in boxed kits and pre-assembled sections.”

CertainTeed Kingston composite railings are available in white and clay for the classic look of a traditional wood railing system. Designed for flat and stair applications, the white Kingston railing system is available in 3- and 3 1/2-ft. height and 6, 8 and 10 ft. lengths. The aluminum-reinforced rails are routed to accept 1 1/2- by 1 1/2-in. balusters in Square and Traditional (3 ft. white only) styles. CertainTeed offers a choice of five different mounting brackets. The Kingston is suitable for decks, porches and balconies up to three stories in height on one- and two-family dwellings. The system is also backed by a lifetime limited warranty and the company’s five-year SureStart Protection.

LWO Corporation’s Woodway deckrail series is constructed of nominal 2- by 2-in. clear, kiln-dried Western Red Cedar, Mahogany or two-coat Primed. It is available in lengths to fit between posts measured on center at 4, 6 and 8 ft. and panels can easily be cut on the job site to fit any post spacing. Woodway also offers decorative glass post caps in Cobalt Blue, Amber, Olive Green or Black.

De-Kor Post caps sizes include Grande, Rondi and Little Rondi. The company applies the powder coat in the factory for ideal color matching. De-Kor Post caps are available in twenty powder coated colors and custom colors are also available.

Fastener Fascination

Hidden deck fasteners are the rage. They strong, long-lasting and rust-proof and they also create a smooth deck surface with no nail holes.

“Homeowners prefer hidden fasteners,” explains Fox. “Hidden fasteners help eliminate surface blemishes caused by traditional screw fasteners, and provide a smooth, barefoot-friendly deck surface. Reversible (woodgrain/brushed), slip resistant deck boards, unique colors, tropical looking composite decking and accessories like solar post caps are also highly desired.”

“The other important factor is its affect on installation,” adds Mike Descoteaux, marketing manger for Correct Building Products. “Our boards come pre-grooved. Our clip system is called “The Fastenator” and it has changed the industry dramatically. The expectations of the consumer are getting higher. People expect more performance and better aesthetics with hidden fasteners.”

Trex has created the Trex Hideaway hidden-fastener system of grooved boards and clips to provide for a smooth, finished surface. The Trex Hideaway system is currently available for the company’s Brasilia line of decking.

The new Deck Spacers by Simpson Strong-Tie are small plastic spacers that clip onto the joist to keep deck boards evenly spaced. They are ideal for composite decking because they help meet manufacturer warranty requirements. Deck Spacers are quick and easy to install and once in place, act as a shield for the top of the deck joist. The patented design helps keep debris and moisture away from the deck joists, reducing the chances of rot. DeckSpacers are also UV resistant and are available in 100 and 500 quantities in gray, brown and tan.

Additionally, the LUCZ from Simpson Strong-Tie is a concealed-flange joist hanger that connects wood joists to beams or the deck ledger to provide bearing and uplift resistance. The LUCZ’s design has cleaner lines for visible applications, such as second-story decks and patio covers. Unlike typical face-mount hangers, the LUCZ is narrower, allowing joists to be installed flush with the end of a deck ledger or header. The product is manufactured with a ZMAX finish to provide corrosion resistance.

Come in to the Outside

“In terms of design, we see a greater trend toward customization,” says Shellie Sellards, director of marketing for Trex Company. “More homeowners are requesting inlaid patterns and designs that can be created by mixing and matching different colors of decking. Homeowners also are taking advantage of the ability to design custom railing styles that reflect their own personal tastes.”