How to Select Composite Lumber for Decking

A deck is a relatively permanent structure, at least as permanent as the lumber product, so it is important that you choose your design and materials carefully. Whatever wood product you choose will be with you for a long time. You also want to get the most use from your deck as possible, so you need to invest in a quality product.

• Before you choose a lumber product, you need to know the specifics of construction. Knowing the dimensions and layout are important to determine how much lumber you need so you can research availability and cost. It is also helpful in visualizing the finished deck.


• Choose a brand of composite decking lumber. Visit local lumber suppliers and find out what brands of composite lumber are available to you. Research the quality of each brand. Not all composite lumber products last forever. Composite lumber is of much higher quality now than when it was first manufactured, but not all brands are created equal. Talk to people who have used the lumber. Consumer research provides the best information.


• Decide on a color. Composite decking lumber is available in many colors. Some colors complement your house color and environment and some colors do not. Take the surroundings into consideration when choosing a color. You may even want to purchase a small piece of lumber and place it in your yard to help make sure the color is the right one.


• Decide on a texture. Wood grain textures are molded into some brands of composite lumber. Decide if you want the decking to look like real wood or not. Smooth textures are also available. Your choice of color may dictate the texture or vice versa. All colors may not be manufactured with texture options.


• Once you have chosen your product, figure out how much the lumber and other material costs. You need your original design and product pricing information to do this. Be sure to figure in tax and installation labor if you are not installing yourself. If you cannot afford the product you have chosen, you may choose to use a more economically priced product. You can also postpone the project while you safe up for the perfect deck.