Frequently Asked Questions
What composite decking brands does Windsor Plywood carry?
Windsor Plywood carries Trex, TimberTech, Deckorators, Azek, and Eva-Last composite and PVC decking products. Each brand offers different performance levels, aesthetic options, and warranty coverage from entry-level to premium collections. Windsor Plywood staff can help compare options based on budget, appearance, and performance priorities.
What is composite decking made from?
Most composite decking is manufactured from a blend of wood fibre (typically reclaimed sawdust or wood waste) and plastic (often recycled polyethylene from bags and film). The ratio of wood to plastic varies by manufacturer and product line. Capped composite products add a polymer shell over the composite core for improved stain, scratch, and moisture resistance. Azek and other PVC decking products use no wood fibre at all.
How does composite decking perform in Canadian winters?
Quality composite decking is engineered for freeze-thaw cycling and performs well across Canadian climates. The capped construction of premium products resists moisture absorption that could cause expansion and cracking through freeze-thaw cycles. Composite expands and contracts more with temperature than pressure-treated wood, so maintaining manufacturer-specified expansion gaps during installation is important for Canadian seasonal temperature swings.
What maintenance does composite decking require?
Composite decking requires significantly less maintenance than wood. It does not need annual staining, sealing, or painting. Annual cleaning with a composite deck cleaner and soft brush removes surface organic material that can otherwise accumulate and cause mildew staining. Remove debris from between boards to prevent buildup in the gaps. Avoid pressure washing at high settings, which can damage the surface of some products.
How do I choose between composite decking brands at Windsor Plywood?
Compare each product on four factors: warranty coverage (25 to 30-year fade and stain warranties are standard for premium products), capping type (four-sided capping provides the best protection), aesthetic options (colour range and texture realism), and price. Windsor Plywood staff can help you compare current product specifications and pricing to match a composite decking product to your project budget and performance requirements.