The exterior decking industry is in a rapid sate of change and turmoil. Natural cedar and redwood have become incredibly expensive, represent a misuse of our limited natural resources and require continual maintenance. Treated pine lumber still uses valuable natural resources and much discussion surrounds the potential leaching of toxic chemicals into skin and water supplies. Additionally treated decking requires a higher degree of maintenance than cedar or redwood, and is more apt to split and deform. Now a multitude of hybrid synthetic decking products have entered the market. Unfortunately, many have also left the market, leaving behind a long list of customers with no warranty protection on failed materials. Despite the high cost of these products, the jury is still out on many of them as to whether they are truly manufactured to last and perform maintenance free. Design Rite has taken the position that the South American wood products such as Ipe and Tigerwood represent the best overall value in the market today. First they are incredibly strong, much harder than American Oak or Walnut. Secondly they are naturally regenerative trees, with a short growth cycle, so they do not lead as readily to the reduction in our natural resources. Third, they are naturally resistive to decay with a very tight grain so maintenance is much simpler than open pore woods such as cedar or redwood. Lastly they have an unmatched natural beauty. These products combined with vinyl or aluminum railing systems can give the ultimate in style and durability value for your decking and porch needs. Follow the links above to learn more about our decking and railing products.
