Outdoor Living

There's More to Vinyl Deck Systems than Meets the Eye

(MS) - The rise in the popularity of vinyl deck systems means a rise in the number of brands available on the market today. Not all vinyl decks are alike, so you need to understand what you are buying and the differences between the various vinyl deck systems. A good deck system will offer features that can handle the various demands that you will place on it. Features such as ultraviolet protection, color retention, impact retention and the proper use of co-extrusion all affect the quality and impact the longevity of the product.

Ultraviolet (UV) protection is essential in vinyl products that are intended for exterior applications. "The UV additives work like a window shade and protect the vinyl from breaking down, becoming brittle and discoloring," noted Deron Manwaring of Royal Crown Limited, a manufacturer of vinyl decking systems. Manwaring explained the industry standard for the UV additive is 10 parts per hundred. The best vinyl decks on the market are produced with 12 parts per hundred of titanium dioxide, the best additive available.

Several deck systems are offered in different colors. Make sure they are manufactured with good quality color additives to ensure that the colors do not fade. Vinyl deck manufacturers that use the very best proven color blends certify the steadfastness of the colors.

In the vinyl industry, the co-extrusion manufacturing process is becoming more common because it reduces material expense. This process is very successful and can result in a high quality product if used properly. All too often though, it is used to hide a sub-standard, recycled base material that the manufacturer can purchase at a reduced price. The outer layer is comprised of a quality material that effectively hides the sub-standard base material.

To avoid sub-standard material, Royal Crown Limited's Manwaring suggests you look for a vinyl deck system that is produced entirely of 100 percent virgin vinyl that does not include inferior or incompatible ingredients that affect the quality of the deck.

Other qualities that identify a well-built vinyl deck system include a single-piece plank design that prevents vinyl-against-vinyl squeaking; safety features such as a slip-resistant surface, outstanding weight-load capacities, self-extinguishing nontoxic vinyl, excellent impact resistance; and a connection system that does not expose fasteners to lift or rust.

A reputable vinyl deck manufacturer will submit its product to aging, strength, durability and safety testing by independent labs and testing specialists that are submitted to the Building Officials Code Administrators (BOCA). Ask manufacturers' representatives for testing information.

For more information on what to look for in a quality deck system, contact Royal Crown Limited at (800) 488-5245, or visit the company's Web site at www.royalcrownltd.com.

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