A time-honored choice for decking surfaces, lumber was once the only type of decking material available. While there’s no denying popular options like redwood and cedar offer a sought-after aesthetic, the sun and rain’s weathering effects can be relentless and progressive on wood deck boards. Sanding, sealing and staining are typically recommended every 2-5 years, and in some locations, wood decks can begin to show signs of deterioration after 10 years.
Thanks to advances in manufacturing, wood-alternative surface boards have transcended the challenges commonly associated with traditional decking. As a result, they’re gaining big play with homeowners. Options such as bamboo-based composites have brought awareness to the fact that performance and aesthetics can be twofold—there is no need to sacrifice one value proposition for the other.
With attention paid to wood-alternative decking in 2022, dealers and distributors can meet continued demand for outdoor living scenarios that deliver both form and function. Capitalize on the opportunity at hand and drive sales by stocking Apex® capped bamboo-PVC composite decking from Fortress Building Products.
Apex is engineered to sidestep issues associated with moisture absorption, one of the most common reasons wood decks will deteriorate. Because Apex can effectively resist the effects of weathering and isn’t prone to splintering, cracking or warping, it requires minimal upkeep.
When compared to other decking alternatives, this wood-alternative offering scores best-in-class for both UV protection and slip resistance. It has an acrylic resin cap with a slightly “grabby” surface to provide enhanced levels of friction. Resin caps also provide increased protection from UV rays, meaning boards won’t fade or weather in locations where year-round sunshine is the norm.
To replicate the beauty of tropical hardwoods, Apex undergoes a proprietary extrusion process and embossing technique to reveal non-repeating grain patterns, enhanced wood grain textures and vibrant colors. Fortress Building Products backs its Apex capped bamboo-PVC composite decking with a 30-year limited residential warranty.
The Apex Advantage:
- Lighter – easier to handle and install
- Easier – no sanding, staining, or sealing required (ever)
- Stronger – stays flat and smooth underfoot
- Safer – category leading slip-resistance
- Tougher – higher resistance to the harmful effects of weathering
- Truer – expands and contracts about 25 percent less than competitor boards
- Prettier – an array of colors provides the beautiful look of tropical hardwoods
Learn more about the advantages of offering wood-alternative decking from Fortress Building Products at fortressbp.com.
