Pressure-treated lumber, long the material of
choice for exterior decks, has lost some of its
appeal in the last ten years. Concerns about
the toxicity of CCA-treated lumber, coupled
with the demands
of homeowners for
a better-looking,
more maintenance-free decking material, have led
to the development of a variety of safe, durable,
more attractive alternatives. In this article, we'll look
at representative products in three categories: wood
pressure-treated with non-toxic preservatives; naturally
rot-resistant domestic and imported hardwoods;
and a growing list of synthetic materials
made with recycled plastic.
JUNE JLC 1998
by JLCStaff
ROT- R E S I S
TA N T
Tropical hardwoods,
plastic, and wood-plastic
composites are gaining
favor over pressure-treated
decking
Pau Lope decking/photo courtesy of General Woodcraft
Several new developments