Kleer Coastal Series decking from The Tapco Group provides lighter colors and smooth finishes that combine to create a distinctive appearance. Containing no organic fillers that promote the growth of mold or mildew, the decking also resists scratching and staining. It is made with a 100% cellular PVC core that is fully encapsulated. |
Market Rising Quickly
Principia Consulting agrees that deck projects are growing, even faster than the market rebound. “Decking and railing continue to gain industry attention, as the outdoor-living experience remains a high priority for homeowners when considering remodeling projects,” says the firm’s 2015 report on Residential Decking & Railing. The company expects decking demand to rise 2.4% annually through 2018, hitting 3.5 billion lineal feet.
Although wood still holds a dominant position in the market, the new compositions are gaining ground, the report says. “Wood share has grown during the prolonged economic downturn, but as the economy has improved and consumers have gained more confidence, sales of wood-alternative decking have improved,” it reports. “The availability of a range of products along a good-better-best lineup of price and performance has enticed consumers to upgrade from wood to synthetics.”
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More Wood-Like Looks
Wood’s dominance relies on its affordable price points and aesthetic appeal. But as composite and PVC products improve their ability to replicate the appearance of wood, their durability becomes a key factor. “Customers want lower-maintenance products, with a realistic wood appearance,” says Edie Kello, director of marketing communications for Fiberon. “Grain patterns and colors are important. Homeowners are treating their deck as a decorative element like the cabinets in their kitchen. Composites with an exotic-hardwood appearance are becoming a more popular choice because they’re looking more realistic.”