Composite Decking

[Slev]

My next project (haven't informed the wife yet) is to replace the deck boards on the existing deck, extend the deck, then build a 3-season room off of the kitchen. My plan is to replace the existing windows/door in the kitchen with a slider, then the new room will be pretty much all windows. Plan on spraying (paint) the rafters & adding a ceiling fan & possibly a wood-burning fireplace.

I plan on handling the all the work myself, with some muscle & speficic shingling know-how from a couple buddies. Will post the before pics soon.

My main question at this time is for anyone who has used composite wood decking. I've heard mostly good things...the only bad is that it can be slippery when wet (but I won't have to worry about that). Obviously I haven't done any research yet, just looking for feedback from peeps that have actually used it. Are you happy with the product use? What product? Approximate cost per sq.ft or linear foot?

[Crawland]

I used Timbertech decking and am very happy with the feel of the deck. I am having problems with the fascia though. It expands so much in the heat that it has snapped the screws. I have to fiqure out a good way to hang it to allow for expansion/contraction.

I'm not as happy with my railing choice, but that is a different story.

Since you're in the area, you can come check out the deck if you want.

I don't have cost info handy, but I could get it for you.

[huge1s]

I was just searching on this today (mostly trying to find pricing) and composite decking isn't always what it is made out to be. Specifically with staining, discoloration, mildew, mold and crumbling. This (http://forum.doityourself.com/decks-patios-porches-docks/291310-home-depots-veranda-decking.html) is the forum that I saw info about "Veranda" brand decking sold at home depot. I have composite on my new house and it seems fine...but I am also looking to expand my deck and it appears I have a long road of research before choosing the material.

[Crawland]

My neighbor used the stuff from Home Depot. I don't know if it was veranda when he bought it, but I think it was. I would avoid that stuff. He has mold issues.

I went through the same process when I did mine. Lots of research. Timbertech is what I settled on. I haven't had issues with mold. It's been through three winters so far and has held up good. It needs a good cleaning, but other then that I'm happy.

[Quads]

Don't know the name or cost my the FiL has it on their place up in Norther Michigan, which gets hot summers, snow, and everything in between. Not slippery when wet, and looks like the day he installed it, 5 years later. Wish I could be more specific, but that's all I know about his. I do know you can work with it just as you would wood (saw, nail, screw, etc.) and that any deck I build, I'll do it with a composite material.

[Slev]

Thanks for the info fellas, and thanks for the offer Craw, I may take you up on the offer some time. I think next spring I will re-deck and extend the current deck from 12x16 to 16x16. 3-season room will be done the following spring most likely.

[Debacle]

2 yrs ago did my deck with composite trex decking. built a 19x14 foot deck coming off the kitchen, then a step down to a 12x12 that opens off into the yard. Used saddle brown color and used trex hand rail kits as well.

Overall, very happy with it. Have to use a deck brush and warm soapy water to scrub it down 2x or so a yr (spring/fall). Takes a bit of elbow grease, but not having to worry about rot or mold is a big bonus for me. Just have to remember to sweep off any leaves or other matter so it doesent begin to rot and discolor the boards.

*edit: Ill actually put up a new thread. I did it 2 or 3 yrs ago, but im all caught up with work with nothing to do, so screw it.