Before You Buy Composite Decking Watch This

Overwhelmed by all the different options and price points of Composite Decking? Unsure of the differences between Composite Decking? Don't want to waste all day comparing different brands? This is the video for you! We'll discuss and show you everything you'll need to make your decision!
Are there any questions about decks that you want answered? Leave a Comment Below!
Shop At Tuds Here: www.tuds.ca
Contact Us: p.tuds.ca/before-you-start
Chapters:
Intro
Composite Decking What's The Difference: 0:00
Wood Plastic Composite Decking: 0:37
Capped Wood Plastic Composite Decking: 1:12
Mineral Based Composite Decking: 1:45
(Polyvinyl Chloride) PVC Decking: 2:19
Budget Composite Decking: 03:02
Trex Budget Composite Info: 3:38
TimberTech Budget Composite Info: 4:57
Fiberon Budget Composite Info: 5:43
WARNING! Stick to Reliable Brands: 6:36
Mid Tier Composite: 6:54
TREX Mid Tier Info: 7:12
TimberTech Mid Tier Info: 7:41
TimberTech Terrain Line Info: 8:13
Fiberon Mid Tier Info: 8:58
Deckorators Mid Tier Info: 9:30
High End Composite Decking: 10:11
Fiberon Promendade Info: 10:52
Wolf Serenity Info: 11:47
Trex Transcend Info: 12:37
MoistureShield Vision Info: 13:26
Deckorators Voyage Info: 14:12
The Best Board Overall: 14:13
Closing Thoughts: 17:31
What would you do?: 17:41

[@decksbye3269]

Always worth a listen. Shane is one of the more knowledgeable people about decking, plus honest to a fault. Calls it what it is. If you want to know how the decking truly performs, Shane calls it from his own experience.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Thanks guys!

[@andrewrobbins2551]

What are your thoughts on moisture shield decking?

[@mexterkate]

Thanks for taking the time to make this very informative video! Great pace and awesome wrap up!

[@timmagnus46]

Excellent overview of three price point options. Very thorough. Thank you!

[@tonydattoli]

i can and probably will watch this several times. Very comprehesive and I agree, that your honesty is to be admired. Thanks

[@ymg200]

This is absolutely the best overview of composite decking materials. Thank you!

[@mklebacher9702]

Just saved me hours of research! Explained perfectly, making my decision so clear. Thank you!

[@c.jillallen-hood4685]

Whenever I am looking for long term building items, I thoroughly research every item for my specific needs. This video helps me with multiple DIY items!/Thanks for posting this! ❤

[@royrussell8531]

Your presentation is TOTALLY AWESOME!!! THANKS FOR SHARING, LOVE IT!!!

[@GForceFitness1]

Best video that I've seen on this subject. Very informative! Thanks!

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Glad it helped!

[@michaelcecutti5451]

Well done! Thank you! Been trying to figure this out for 2years now! You have done it in 15 mins!

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ChadBeaudin]

Great video.. Highly appreciate the time you put in.

[@christopherhaak9824]

Just want to correct something you said. The better boards don't use HDPE as a cap, but use an ionomer such as Surlyn. It's the same material used in golf ball covers. It's very durable and much tougher and abrasion resistant than HDPE. Great video.

[@joanneschlosser1319]

Very clear, detailed information and helpful to select our choice of composite

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Excellent!

[@LAURADAVIS-br1ci]

Thanks for the very informative video. I was confused on the difference between the various brands until I watched your video.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Mission accomplished!

[@ncwoodworker]

Very nice presentation. Informative and precise.

[@overquota6072]

really informative video - thank you!

[@jan-pavelkovar6764]

This is super useful! I'm looking to have a pier/boatdock built and having something like deckorators looks great to bring up with a contractor for estimates.

[@MichaelJ674]

Best video I’ve ever seen on this complex subject. Have you checked out Millboard mineral based composite decking. All the advantages of Deckorators Voyage but even more realistic wood look and even better color choices in my opinion. Based in the UK, they use a cap material that is a vegetable oil-based biopolymer (no petroleum-based products) that is cast using real English oak boards and then hand colored so it’s virtually indistinguishable from real wood when installed. Also, no need for hidden fasteners as the polymer cap is self-healing so it closes back over the top of face-driven deck screws when countersunk below the surface per Millboard installation instructions. You can’t believe it until you see for yourself. Makes it SOOOO easy to install. I believe Millboard is even a little more expensive than Deckorators Voyage, so it’s at the very top of the premium price range. It’s been in use for over a decade in the UK and Australia and has an excellent track record from what I’ve been able to gather. As with Deckorators, Millboard provides free samples so you can see the product for yourself. If you’re looking for the best available decking option regardless of price, Millboard is it in my opinion. It’s what I’ll be installing on my new house.

[@tedspens]

Best composite decking overview on youtube! 🔨🏆

[@davidshettlesworth1442]

Thank you for this excellent video. I learned a great deal. Carry On Sir!

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Great to hear!

[@t-rocket6381]

Excellent vid!

[@joelf5565]

Great video. Thank you so much!

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

You're welcome!

[@tomatlanta2665]

So helpful! Darn I wish you were near me!!! I need to install now

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

The world is small now. We are never far away. :)

[@georgejoseph4164]

Seriously I had no idea there was so much variety out there. Thanks for a great video, I must get out of my cave more often...

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

There are SO many options. It's definitely confusing!

[@salembeeman370]

Great Video. I have a small front porch 8X6. But I want it to look good, function well and last. My concern is during the winter (When we had winter in Connecticut) I shovel snow off the steps. Nervous about scratching the boards.

[@theflyingdutchman787]

Thank you very much, great video.

[@jonnymakers9560]

Awesome!! Thank you so very much

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

You're welcome!

[@Lisacarroll57]

Thank you, very thorough.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Welcome!

[@IraRush]

Thanks for the super informative video! Any experience or insight on Millboard from the UK?

[@scottpeters9089]

Thanks for the informative video. I'm considering either Trex Transcend or Dekorators Voyage (maybe Vault) but the one thing I don't like about the Trex is the large gap that is between boards especially when using the hidden fasteners. It looks so wide at 1/4" and even wider sometimes. You can see the joists easily below which bothers me. My deck is on the second floor. I think I read that Dekorators Voyage can be installed with a 1/8" gap between boards which I think would be better for me (1/16" would be best). My question is, are there hidden fasteners for either Trex or Deckorators that can be used to get a 1/8" gap or less or do they all have the 1/4" gap forcing a different install method like screwing through the face of the boards? Are there any other hidden ways to install without face screwing? Can Trex be installed at 1/8" gap or is that a no-no? I'm in Charlotte, NC so not very extreme weather conditions.

[@riccardoschulz4466]

Brilliant summary! Any experience/opinion with Tanzite stone deck?

[@stanleycleverley2100]

Great info. Very nice breakdown of the major players. What are your thoughts on Duxxbak Dek vs Trex Rainescape?

[@dscn2family]

Hi Shane your videos have very helpful. I cannot find any videos and very few comments on Deckorators "Venture" or Deckorators Tropics-Lowes. We are building a new home and the builder showed us trex enhanced. We went to Lowes, and my husband prefers the look and sturdiness of Deckorators. We live in West Virginia if this helps. Thank you.

[@sharonchavira6645]

What a great video. We are getting ready to replace an old plywood deck. We live in AZ. So we get heat, rain and some snow. Our deck is a hugh wrap around. Approximately 110 ft x 10ft. What's our best option! Middle priced most likely. We need help. Thanks

[@cz1always608]

OK, it’s been a year since you’ve made this video time to do another one new products come out by the same companies and it’s definitely made differently and more options. Would love to see an updated version of this great video by the way.

[@kerriebelle18]

This video was incredibly helpful! I don't want to shell out the premium price tag for Deckorators Voyage, but I need the thermal stability + traction + moisture/mold resistance. Deckorators has come out with a few newer product lines, including Venture (their budget line) and Vista (which is mid-price), and I just can't figure out how they stack up next to the lineup that you laid out so nicely. @TheUltimateDeckShop Any chance you'd be willing to do an update, new video, or even just comment thread telling where you would rank some of the new product lines for these manufacturers?

[@cedarshack]

Very comprehensive review of the lineup of composite decking boards. Mnay thanks. I was wondering if you have ever reviewed the bamboo decking products - fused or composite? (dassoXTR or MOSO)

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Yes we have sold both. I really like the look and the green story behind them. However, there are quality issues. They also tend to splinter up with really fine, hairline splinters. You have to be very diligent with maintenances - sanding and oiling. If that sounds like fun, go for it. If not, stay away.

[@terryw5656]

Great video! Great information! Have your ever used or been exposed to Home Depot exclusive Fiberon ArmorGuard capped composite decking. Just saw it as I was looking for your Fiberon sugguestion.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Never used it, but seems fine for a "box store board". It's scalloped quite a bit and the same embossing as the old Protect Advantage line which was fairly slippery.

[@KoryKnickerbocker]

Hi Shane - thanks for posting this - we found it very informative. Quick question - what is your opinion on using the hidden fasteners vs the face screws for the main part of the decking? Have you noticed any issues with the hidden fasteners over time?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

The hidden fasteners are a nicer finish and faster to install. Rarely seen issues. Sometimes the Trex Hideaway Clips will let the boards slide over time - but that's because the clip is all plastic and doesn't bite into the board. Use Camo Edge Clips - that's the best option on the market right now. Face screwing is great, but more tedious and not as aesthetically pleasing. You could combine with Cortex or Pro Plugs to hide the screws.

[@justindey9997]

I am considering installing metal panels to make a rainproof patio under the deck. Would you recommend full a full capped product for this application?

[@jeffalan6339]

I had as client use ultra deck. It cupped on the ends, shrinks in a couple of days. Cut with 1/8" gap for movement became more 3/8 or more. Cuts as stringy fibers. The fasteners we're the worst part of it all. The plowed out cup like channel, the fasteners slip out as tightened, heads strip out, or the bit. Had to drive slowly or strip, even had a few heads broke off or the screw. The. Screw was more for sheet metal than wood. Took considerable time to drive each screw in. Like , tools, optics and speakers get what you pay for.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

There are a lot of bad products out there unfortunately. And learning that on the fly is expensive!

[@WaysToFreedom]

Excellent video. I wish you'd said even more, especially about Timbertech, which you didn't mention at all in the premium tier, so I wonder about that. Anyway, thanks a lot.

[@alc6284]

same here as I was planning to use timber tech.

[@mrfreezey1]

This is very eye opening...lol.. Getting my house built and the builder said it's time to pick out Trex. I was familiar with them and I think I've heard of Timber Tech, but that's it! I'm in MD and we get all the seasons, so I really don't know which one would work, especially with global warming and the extremes in temps we've already seen this past year. I think mid to premium is what we would be looking at. any recommendations??

[@marinathai5704]

Thank you for the great video - I am looking to do a new roof deck 16x20 ft at the beachfront property. Hope you can advise which material would be the better suit with the concern we have salt water and sand, moist, direct sun, and termite in the area are high. It seems the Deckorators Voyage is the answer, but not sure if it can able to solve my concern. If I have to go with a budget which option would be. Lastly, I also use the material for a small siding of the house any suggestions? Thanks!!

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Deckorators would be a good option. Moistureshield Cool Deck (select Meridian or Vision lines) would be a good option as well. Deckorators Voyage will have the superior traction - Vault or MS Meridian will be a little less money. There's no "budget" option per se that will give you all the benefits of the above mentioned boards, but Fiberon Good Life is a great budget option if the others don't fit the budget.

[@classicretros23]

@theultimatedeckshop any tips for 2nd floor decks ? I have an old wooden deck with a sunroom underneaths that I would like to upgrade/replace. Really liking your video as I just started my research 🧐 😁

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Are there specific things you're curious about? In a general sense, consider a water management system like Trex Rain Escape or something similar. Pay extra attention to frame bracing to ensure it's safe and sturdy. If you're asking specifically just about whether one decking is better than another for second story applications - then no, they'll all be fine and one doesn't serve a particular advantage over another for that specific application. If you're going to see the bottom of the boards, and that matters to you, then Wolf Serenity is finished both sides for the bottoms would still look nice.

[@mr.foreman841]

Just did my deck in the Deckorators voyage decking. It looks amazing and I love the traction because I have two young kids. I hope it stands up to the rest of time. I allowed for about 1/16” to 1/8” spacing on the ends but I live here in Canada where temperatures in the winter can be -30c and summer +30c. One question I have would be is it a good idea to have your mitres tight on your picture frame? Or should you leave spacing there for expansion?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Deckorators Voyage is the most thermally stable composite on the market - so you'll be just fine. With pretty much all other composites, yes you would have to leave expansion gaps if installed when cooler out. We are in Saskatchewan - we hear ya on the -30 to +30. Voyage performs great in our climate. Go tight!

[@robertwilliams7754]

Hi Shane, really got a lot out of this video. We live in the mountains of Colorado at 8,350 feet elevation. So we get tons of UV dosage, obviously even more so on the south part of our elevated 2nd story deck. We have about 630 square feet of deck and also do not want to make a mistake on performance. So we're looking at the higher end (Promenade and the Dekorator MBC product. Seems MBC would be best on the south side especially due to major swings in temperature. Also, not always someone there to shovel off snow that falls from late September to early May (and sometimes June). :) Based on what I've described, would you go Promenade or Dekorators Voyage?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

I don't think there is a clear answer here. Yes the Deckorators will be more thermally stable, so it will handle those temp swings better. But both are great products, so choose the colour that you like the most. Deckorators will have a bit more traction, Promenade will have a bit more durability. So gotta weigh what means more to you. Both are great. Choose lighter colours either way if the sun is a concern.

[@ddyeo503]

When I bought Trex to put on my deck 20 to 25 years ago there was only one color, "Grey!" But even today the Trex boards look good with just one pressure wash per year to keep the mold down. I do wish they had other colors back then, but it is not worth the cost of changing just because of different colors today,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

[@scott.c9587]

Thank you. Great video

[@krikro1952]

We just bought our retirement home and we are both over 70. We have dogs and use the deck that we are building to walk them outside. When there is snow and ice what do you suggest to put on a deck for melting. I s one brand better than another for this? Thanks for the video very informative.

[@jakedupont3882]

I'm going to be re-doing our deck this spring. We bought TimberTech Terrain grooved boards and the square board to go down the center of the deck to butt the grooved boards up to for a clean look. The deck is almost exactly 20 feet deep. How do you calculate how many boards will equal the 20 foot depth? Or will I need to cut some the long way?

[@mojojojo_BB]

How does the mineral based board do vs the 'stay cool' PVC boards in terms of walk-ability on hot summer days?

[@licyjohn3745]

Hi , what’s your review and advice on Tractio composite decking. Pls advice, thanks

[@ebshitbird2217]

Great video. Why aren’t there any finishes that don’t mimic wood? I understand why people want it to look like a wood grain, but I don’t understand why there aren’t any options for people who don’t like things that look fake.

[@maryanna2245]

Hi Shane. I just subscribed and first time watching your video twice to hear it one more time). This morning I met with my contractor on replacing my deck on the second level of the house. I live in San Francisco, nothing too extreme of a weather; however, CA did get tons of rain just this past winter. Otherwise, we neither have snow nor extreme heat. I'm leaning towards Trex - Transcend or Deckorators - Voyage. I'm looking for durability and great traction. Obviously, low maintenance. Would appreciate any feedback please?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

You'll have to decide which feature is more important to you...because Trex Transcend has the edge on durability, but Deckorators Voyage has the advantage on traction. But I would say the gap is larger on the traction side, so maybe that gives the nod to Deckorators. If I had to rate them each on a 10-scale for those features, I'd rate it as such: Durability (scratching, denting): Trex Transcend 8.5/10 Deckorators Voyage 7/10 Traction: Trex Transcend 4/10 Deckorators Voyage 10/10 Hope that helps!

[@billhendrix4125]

Been looking at various deck boards. Thinking about going with Timbertech Prime+ or Terrain. They just seem better than the main brands in HD and Lowe’s. It’s for a low deck that’s less than a foot off the ground. Any other brand you would recommend in that price range? Also trying for a light grey color.

[@rjthomasindyusa]

What is the lightest, most stain-roof and coolest decking materail these days. The decking will be used in mobile platforms/ decks for a event rental company..... so it will be abused. Thanks! Great video!

[@candyapplered3803]

Great info, do you have similar info on Azek?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

We are currently in the process of making a video on Azek is there any particular information you'd like covered?

[@TomrfPhillips]

What do you recommend for a pool deck. I’m replacing my wood deck but hear that some composites are slippery and are too hot for bare feet

[@jonmitchell7626]

Great and helpful video. Do you have any insight into Tanzite stone decking? Does it compare price wise to composite with similar install methods?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

I don't have much, I've only every seem samples. Never seen it on a real deck. Looks size, very durable. Installs over plywood with a flatroof membrane which I'm not a huge fan of that idea. The finished look is nice though. Price I would expect to be at the very high end of high end composites, possibly a bit more.

[@davidme9698]

Try dropping it on cement. It will shatter!

[@jimfisher8990]

I’m looking into Millboard. Naturally, I was hoping you would have included that product in your review. Since this video have you come across or made a review of this product?

[@JohnnyDom2]

I've never been impressed by the colors or texture of composite decking. Real wood is just so much more beautiful. A sealed redwood is not only WAY cheaper than composite (literally about $4 per sq ft vs $25 fir composite) but stunningly beautiful. Obviously, it's the maintenance that costs in the long run. But when you compare price points, I can still do yearly sand and seal on a redwood deck for 11 years and not have it be as expensive as composite until year 12.

[@user-jj6nw1lw8l]

Which brands/lines can be installed over a preexisting cement patio, without 6 inches open space under the frame? Sounds like Dekorators is one option that won't get mold/rot? what about the others?

[@altonkern6931]

Omg this was so helpful. Best review of materials by far. QUESTION: I an resurfacing my deck but want to know if there’s some kind of decking that funnels water away so it doesn’t drip through the slots like my wood deck. I want to use this on a two level and keep the underneath dry? Any suggestions. Thank you!,,

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

If you use a system like Trex Rain Escape or ZipUp Ceiling, then you can use any decking you want and stay dry. If you're looking for a decking that has that function built in, then Duxxback Decking will work. Not sure on the quality personally however.

[@suran396]

​@@TheUltimateDeckShopthanks!

[@ThiccBoi23]

Great video. Heat is my major concern. Our deck will be facing South and West, so tons of hot weather and Sun from end of May - October these days. Deckarators seems to have their Voyage line claiming cuts down on heat. Any thoughts on how it compares to more budget friendly options?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

For heat, it really comes down to going with the lightest colour you like. Many brands claim lower heat absorbtion... Moistureshield Cool Deck, Deckorators, Azek, etc... the difference is minimal and primarily driven by colour. Light greys are a good option.

[@1whitecottagelife770]

I’m so tired of having to strip off stain and pressure wash and clarify and re stain the deck every year. I bought the house with the deck in. I have a question though, I saw several videos talking about how the forest service uses a mix of paraffin and mineral spirits to make the wood water proof and water beads up on it. Could such a mix be used on a deck? Is it going to keep the deck water proof? Won’t it make the deck slippery? I’m in Oregon and the deck on the back of my house has green moss growing since last year when I resealed it, while the deck on the south side of the house is baking in the sun. …..that being said, I’m really tempted to get the Deckorator Voyager boards and replace the whole thing and get it over with.

[@kennybodhaine6558]

GREAT video, well done. We need to re-deck our lake dock that is red cedar. Unfortunately it gets submerged in the winter often, but only for a week or two. Thankfully, not last year, though (2022). Now, we know what to purchase, thank you so much for your knowledge.👍 18:40

[@dougcopple2384]

Thank you for the very informative video. We are going to replace our wood deck with composite decking. We have been looking at the TimberTech Pro Legacy Collection, which is their higher-end product. However, you did not review this product in the higher-end product review. Do you have an opinion on this product or not recommend it at all? Thank you.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Hey there Doug, Thank you for your kind words! We have a video on the TimberTech line that you can watch here if you're interested kzbin.info/www/bejne/nJ3YnYuugK2bpqM

[@brent5626]

Do you have a opinion on Trunorth Enviroboard ? Thanks,

[@cksiam]

I'm in Colorado with a west and south facing elevated deck. I've looked at Decorators Voyage, Trex Transcend Lineage, Timber Tech Pro PVC and composite and placed samples of them on my deck. As you mentioned, color seems to be the driving factor of how hot the deck feels on my bare feet. I was leaning towards Voyage and was disappointed to find that it was more difficult to remove stains. I poured a line of sriracha hot sauce on all of them and left them outside for a few hours. The Decorators still has a faint discoloring even after using a scrub, daddy and soap and water. The Trex Transcend Lineage cleaned up quickly with just a cold, wet paper towel and very little effort. Perhaps the characteristics that give the Voyage better grip also means that spills and stains are going to take more effort to clean up?

[@suran396]

Thanks! I am also concerned with heat. I have east, South and West exposure all on the same deck. I don't want it to get crazy hot. What have you discovered?

[@cksiam]

@@suran396 I ended up going with the Deckorators Voyage (Tundra/Grey) . On bare feet its pretty good in the heat and in cool weather. I think the texture reduces contact area with the feet which helps as well. I think it cleans up well enough. Looks great, but probably scratches easier than the Trex Transcend.

[@suran396]

@@cksiam thank you so much!

[@drdanandsondra]

Which board is best for the hot TX sun? Coolest board?

[@bombshell317]

This is so helpful, thank you! We are building a mountain lake home with nearly 1000 sq. ft. of decking. Can you tell us approximately the price point for the mid-range Fiberon Sanctuary line and price point on the premium Deckorators Voyage product? Thanks so much!

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Totally depends on your market. Sanctuary in our market is about $6-6.50 CDN per linear foot while Deckorators Voyage is about $8.50 per linear. For easier mathing, multiple each of those by about 2.2 to come to a square foot price.

[@davidgervais3893]

what would be the best product for a low ~24" high deck? I read theta Trex isn't recommended under 30"

[@jimsmith8324]

I used Dekorators Voyage for my deck rebuild. One word of caution, clean clay off immediately. If clay dries in those deep grooves, it's difficult to get out.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Good tip. Stuff bristle broom and some TUDS SUDS would help.

[@parisamarashi2935]

Was moistureshield meridian covered? Looks waaay nicer than vision and stays way cooler than boards without cooldeck

[@butterflyjessica1]

Hello ☺️ We want to install “TruNorth” deck boards next to our pool very close to the ground…Is it a good product? (Our winters are around -13F) Does it get splinters? Do I need to know anything about ventilation? I have no idea about the product, its so expensive, I don’t want to regret it😐 Thank you so much

[@kadyq9626]

This is all well and good but how good is the warranty really? I see too many reviews where the home owner states that the warranty is ignored. The most concerning complaints are regarding delamination and buckling which seems to happen well before the 10 year mark. Trex Naturals seems to be the worst.

[@suran396]

One thing I like about my wood deck is that it doesn't get super hot. How do these perform in that respect?

[@debrahubbs3806]

You have helped somewhat with the confusion but reading reviews on the budget friendly boards has me tempted to save money and go with wood lol. Also not mentioned is how hot these boards get which is a concern to me but it doesn't seem feasible to avoid this issue?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

There are many good budget board options that are much better than wood. Just avoid cheap, knock off, imported stuff. All Decking in direct sun on a scorcher day will get hot.

[@blainemcdonald6972]

Spacing of joists must be important ? I’m hearing 16” OC and 12” OC. Present deck is on 16” fir joists OC. Do the products your displaying each require different OC spacing of the joists?

[@robertwilliams7754]

Shane, I have committed to go with DecKorators Voyage in Sedona, but have a question about hidden fasteners. Between the 2 choices of Camo edge clips versus Tiger Claw clips, with which do you think I will be happier? See my post below regarding Colorado mountain weather, plus we have varying joists, ranging from 6x12 Doug Fir beams and between them, 2x8 redwood joists with a redwood 2x12 rim joist.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Camo Edge Clips. TigerClaws were great back in the day. But Camo Edge are the bees knees now.

[@jeannefelfe2914]

​ @The Ultimate Deck Shop I have a question I didn't see below. We need to resurface our 2nd floor cedar deck. It has a rain-tight-style under decking which we imagine is one reason the cedar rotted so quickly. I'm assuming that 4-sided capping is needed given the lack of ventilation?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

It depends on the product. Some products like Deckorators MBC, Moistureshield, or PVC options don't require any ventilation. Other wood plastic composites like Trex, Fiberon, TimberTech do have ventilation requirements so you just need to check their installation guys for your application.

[@terryallen8392]

Are the grooved also capped in all the brands you have mentioned in the budget and midrange price points? Also we have a metal ceiling installed below the deck which might restrict airflow, do we need to get capped on 4 sides? I was asking about the grooves in the sides of the deck boards :)

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

The grooves are NOT capped on Trex or Fiberon Composites. They ARE capped on TimberTech, Fiberon PVC. They are NOT capped on Deckorators - but they also don't need to be as there is no organic content in their MBC lines so water can't hurt it. Capping of the grooves is really a non-issue. Check with the different brands become some composite like Trex, TimberTech and Fiberon DO have ventilation requirements - typically 2-3" of airflow below the joists. Others like Moistureshield, Deckorators MBC lines, and any PVC boards generally do not require ventilation below.

[@faaallc7268]

What is your recommendation for an area like vermont, where there is a lot of snow, also the decking is going to be use for out door stair case entrance

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Deckorators Voyage. Very thermally stable for those temp swings, and has INCREDIBLE traction wet and dry.

[@rittalparmar526]

How about high elevated deck with close storage underneath? Your opinion on duradeck please.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Not sure I understand the question? There are a number of products to keep the space below dry if that's what you mean? Duradek is fine as a brand - but we aren't huge fans of that whole category of vinyl sheet glue down decking for a number of reasons: 1. It doesn't look very nice IMO - looks like old kitchen linoleum. 2. It requires an aggressive slope of th deck...typically 1" over 6-8' which is VERY noticeable when sitting or standing on it. 3. The slope makes the railing trickier to install and looks goofy on the sides. 4. We often get calls from people with tears, seams splitting, leaks. In our opinion, all of these issues go away if you just use a drainage system like Trex Rain Escape or ZipUp Ceilings - and then you can use whatever decking you love.

[@jackofmosttrades9127]

Lumberock also uses mineral/plastic. Not just deckorators

[@johnlechner4091]

Great infornation one quick question: How you rank "CLUBHOUSE" Thanks

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Clubhouse is very scratch resistant and has really good traction. Unfortunately it expands and contracts like crazy... so much that it can snap screws and boards can Crack if you have extreme weather. So I wouldn't recommend it in areas with big temp swings... but in more moderate climates, it's a good board.

[@user-tm9sk7ow7r]

How does Newtechwood compare to Fiberon and Timbertech?

[@janitapanos240]

It would be very helpful if you could show the colour options for each product you are talking about. For example, You said that Trek budget options come in 3 colour but, you do not show what the 3 colours are.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Hi there! We do have other videos on our channel that show the colours, or check out our blog here: www.tuds.ca/blogs/tudsblog/trex-decking-2022-overview/ Thanks for the feedback!

[@ricktackett8099]

Really comprehensive, just wish you had addressed fire rating.

[@brucepetrochuk3296]

Which decking brand / model would you recommend for an installation that will have a air space underneath the deck boards but little to no air movement. (i.e. solid concrete birm all the way around the outside patio border. Also, because I would like to leave little to no spacing between the deck boards how would that affect the recommendation.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Deckorators Mineral Based Composite, Moistureshield, or most PVC options like Wolf or Fiberon Promenade. Any board that doesn't have a ventilation requirement and is okay for ground contact will work. All the above fit the bill.

[@DanielSeigel]

I had all but given up on installing composite decking because of the horror stories of them being too slick when wet, too hot (Full sun exposure), and warping. My contractor is recommending Moso which looks like a great eco-friendly product. Oiling it once a year isn't ideal, but I can live with it, but I hadn't hear about the need to sand it or the splintering you mentioned. Is that from actual experience or something you've heard? I'm now looking at the Tanzite product. Not the Rainier that installs over a plastic sheet, but the Appalachian product that installs similarly to composite. Any experience with that? If I do end up with composite with Final question: I'm not that concerned with the "look" or the color - I can find something that will work with any product. So if my primary concerns are low maintenance, traction, heat, and scratch resistance, what do you recommend?

[@suran396]

What did you go with and how do you like it?

[@matthewandkristyvandelden6368]

Could you make a video about TruNorth? They are out of Ontario and if I can support Canadian, I would like to. I'm hesitating as there has been no reviewers by you guys, the authority on this in my opinion, yet. Thanks!

[@matthewandkristyvandelden6368]

Reviews*

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

I want to like TruNorth because they're Canadian - but I really lack confidence in their products. We have had some pretty serious issues with their Clubhouse line cracking in our prairie climate due to their extreme expansion and contraction. So I can't really recommend them in the Alberta, Sask, Manitoba or northern regions. They're likely fine in BC, southern Ontario, etc. The TruNorth seems like a good value, but I have hesitations about quality. The groove is super wide, and looks like a weak point to me - and the clips are super generic feeling. I don't have enough experience with the composite lines to know for sure, but I'm also too gunshy to invest into stocking them.

[@srt4jediify]

What's your opinion on Zuri decking. I haven't found any review videos on it.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Looks BEAUTIFUL but have heard lots of warranty issues around delamination.

[@davidav8orpflanz561]

For a new front porch: My 1st challenge is finding dark green (like Hunter Green) composite deck boards to match my houses trim and Shutters colour! Then, look at budget and quality options. EH! Any suggestions?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

The only brand I've seen with colours like that is maybe NewTechWood. But quality would be a major concern, being a China manufactured product. Also unlikely to find the green stocked anywhere.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

You can order custom colours from WearDeck as well.

[@davidav8orpflanz561]

@The Ultimate Deck Shop There's also company in the USA Midwest called something like - Cardinal Building supplies, that has a dark green, but still looking for options... THANKS FOR THE OTHER SUGGESTIONS!

[@terryjednaszewski2776]

Is there a tongue and groove porch board that can be installed directly on an existing plywood floor on a covered area. The plywood is in great condition. Thanks.

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Wolf, Azek, Deckorators all make a TG porch board. Never a great idea to put them over plywood unless you know 100% for sure that it will see 0 rain.

[@johnpulomena5481]

How does the TimberTech AZEK board compare to the Dekorators- Voyage?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Both are great products. Deckorators would have better traction and better thermal stability (won't shrink as much in the cold). Aside from that, they are quite similar. Azek generally has some nicer looking options, but that's subjective.

[@greelsdisc]

Okay ultra deck from Menards, junk? I’m going from a cedar deck, just looking for less maintenance and something that might not sctratch as easily from shoveling in the winter for the dogs path.

[@chrishunnicutt3986]

I'm recovering the decking on my houseboat. I want something stable, durable and low maintenance but it needs to be able to be placed 24oc joists. What do you recommend?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Sounds like you might want to look in WearDeck. Tough to find outside of Florida, but their distribution is improving. You could also look into TimberTech Azek MAX boards.

[@joelf5565]

Between the Aztec PVC and Deckorator MBC, which would you say is stronger when walking on, and requires less span?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

They both have the same span requirements and will flex under the foot similarily unless you go to the Azek Max line which is a 1/2" thicker.

[@RichardBoughner]

Do you have any comments on Idekk boards from DuxxBak?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

Don't know anything about them, sorry!

[@marklaffey7972]

What about Wear Deck?

[@appatel1]

I live in Texas and my deck will be exposed to the sun all day long. Is there any temperature benefit to a mineral composite deck like Deckorators Voyage line? Also is the Timbertek Azek heat resistant line really 30% cooler than other decks like the voyager line?

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

No. For both questions. There are lots of claims put there that boards stay cooler - but cooler relative to what? It's mostly marketing. Any actual difference is VERY minor and not overly noticeable. What IS true is "heat dissipation" which is better for MBC and PVC products over composite products. But heat dissipation just means when the deck gets shade, it will cool off quicker. But if it's in direct sun, they are all hot. Lighter colours will be less hot. Focus more on colour rather than brand.

[@appatel1]

@@TheUltimateDeckShop thank you!

[@TheUltimateDeckShop]

@@appatel1 You're welcome!