Q&A: Are synthetic materials any good for outdoor decks?

We desperately need to replace our rotted-out wood deck. Are synthetic decking materials a good choice?

While most people who put in a deck use real wood, some synthetic planks can offer good looks that will last—with less maintenance. Check out our latest report and watch our video (right) to learn about synthetic decking materials.

Also read about the different decking types, check your outdoor space to make sure its safe, and find out which fastener to use.

Comments

[Rick]

I found the Consumers Reports decking material product review out of date. A couple lines are not avialable anymore (out of business) and CR appear to have not kept up with recent changes to others.
If a consumer is intereted in recycled content, only TREX is a product with over 98% recycled content. All other major line use new plastic created for their product. Color fastness is also important, and consumers should know that many lines do not bear up well.Encapulation is a key factor.The CR study was not very good on that point.Changes to encapsulaion of the wood fiber content in the plastic was not well addresed. This is an attribute that is very important for weathering resistance. CR tested Oasis, which had great encapsulation, but is no longer available in most markets. Trex has made changes to theirs in the last 2 years or so, that greatly enhance it weatherability & resistance to surafce mildew. CR appears to have tested older product. Come on CR, make the info current !!

[Martha]

My husband and I want to take the G'kids (7 & 5 yrs)camping. We came to the site to read up on your recommendations for tents. I noticed that the review was old (2005). My question is: When are you going to review tents that are offered in other brands and are more current models?

Does anyone know how the brand name "Gigatent", 6-8 person model named "Mt. Greylock" 15'x 10' holds up? I couldn't find a review on this tent anywhere on the net. Another I just can't seem to find a review on is at Wesco Outfitters, under the name of Stansport Shasta III ...It's a 3 room tent that sleeps 6. We are hoping for enough capacity and ofcourse, durability....Also, how important is it that I look for an aluminum poled tent?...Do the fiberglass poles break that easily? If so, is it possible to purchase the replacement parts for back up? Are the replacement parts very expensive? Sorry for soooo many questions. I truly had hoped that this site would address tents sold in 2008.

Thanks sooo much...M. J.

[joe]

Martha - Good luck getting response - BTW...posts should be on topic.

Rick - Good to know that Trex allows you to post on sites during work.