Info-to-Build-On Decking Choices by Patsy Hennin Co-Founder Shelter Institute November 14, 2003 Exterior Decking materials have come a long way - new composites look better and will outlast chemically treated woods.

If you have an exterior deck that is still in good shape, now is the perfect time to provide a coat of protection before the winter freeze and spring rain. Wood degrades in two ways. Ultraviolet light breaks down the molecular structure while microbial organisms feast on the cellulose fibers, discoloring and gradually eroding the wood away. While this may make the wood less attractive, it also eventually threatens the structural integrity. A good sealant will slow the cracking and protect the wood during the winter as well as the summer months. Consider pressure washing the surface before applying a sealant to lift off residual mold spores and loose decaying wood.

If your deck is not in sound shape and needs to be replaced, then you are presented with a nice fall construction project!

Pressure treated lumber has been used widely for 25 years, as the standard deck surface. Do not forget that the poison that inhibits fungus and bacteria is harmful to your health, so good safety practices (goggles, mask and gloves) are critical. Even pressure treated lumber needs a good sealant, once it has had a chance to dry out (usually 6-months to one year after installation).

There are some wonderful, naturally protected woods like redwood, cedar and teak for decks. These also benefit with a layer of protection from the sun which bakes, dries and cracks the wood. Winter rain and snow infiltrates the annular rings of the wood with moisture which freezes and splits the wood. Each yearly cycle continues to grow the cracks.

Sealing the wood minimizes cracking and keeps fungus and bacteria at bay. Environmental concerns about the toxicity of pressure treated materials and the preciousness of other woods have created a need for better solutions. Several relatively new fabricated woods have met the criteria for decking (durability, low toxicity, conservation of precious natural resources) and are worth looking at closely.

Two brand names that we have used extensively are Trex and Choicedek, and I am sure there are other brands . Both are reprocessed wood with recycled additives (polyethylene milk bottles and plastic diapers). Choicedek is made of cedar chips and plastics. When it arrives in a bundle at your house, it is a peat-mossy brown. With a month or two of exposure to the elements, it turns an even silvery grey color as if you have spent the day staining your deck. This material does not need any further coating, and it will far outlast pressure treated lumber without the yearly maintenance. Choicedek also has a grooved underside to elevate the decking off of the framing members, allowing air to pass through and dry the joists quickly.

The weather is perfect for these outdoor chores and they will save your investment and allow you to get an early start next spring.

Choicedeck Brand composite wood(and plastic) decking weathers to a silvery grey color after a month or two exposure to the elements.

Unseasoned Choicedeck is peat-brown color.