West Plains RP Lumber manager: 'Composite decking is a durable and maintenance-free option.'
There's a few things to keep in mind when replacing your home's deck, West Plains, Missouri RP Lumber Store Manager Jason Bentley said. The main things to consider are maintenance and budget.
"When it comes to decking options, there are a few choices to consider," he said. "Composite decking is a durable and maintenance-free option, but slightly more expensive."
Then there's Five-quarter treated decking.
"Five-quarter treated decking provides a cost-effective solution with moderate maintenance requirements," Bently said. "Opting for a “five-quarter treated lumber deck offers natural beauty, but requires regular upkeep to maintain its appearance and longevity. Your priorities and budget are the main things to think about when making your choice."
RP Lumber offers a range of decking brands, including Trex and Fiberon. Trex, the pioneering brand in composite decking, doesn't use wood fiber in its composition. Instead, it primarily utilizes recycled plastic, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Fiberon does include wood fibers. The blend combines plastic and wood fibers sourced from various hardwoods, which are ground up and mixed together. This construction method allows Fiberon to incorporate virgin plastic, resulting in less expansion and contraction under extreme temperature conditions.
Composite decking offers a diverse range of color options to choose from, according to RP Lumber's website. Composite decking is highly versatile and can be easily shaped and cut into various designs and patterns.
Most composite decking provides about 20-25 year warranties, whereas for wood decking generally doesn't offer a warranty, since it's up to the home or building owner to maintain it on their own.
The duration of deck construction relies on the contractor's availability, and at RP Lumber, if your desired product is available, customers can typically have their decking delivered on the same day. In order to have a deck ready within a month, Bentley advised customers to promptly determine their preferred decking type, required assistance and visit the store for tailored design and scheduling.
Various RP Lumber locations primarily sell Trex, TimberTech, and Fiberon decking. Availability varies by location, and customers should ask their local RP Lumber about the features and benefits of each brand.
RP Lumber design services cover decks, kitchens and baths, and post-frame buildings, serving both "do-it-yourselfers and professional contractors," according to its website.
Founded in 1977 in Southern Illinois, RP Lumber has more than 80 stores nationwide. Their West Plains, Missouri store is located at 1812 W Broadway St.
Related story: Troy RP Lumber store manager: Composite decking 'offers the advantage of being maintenance free.'