Composite And Plastic Deck Trends

(Continued from page I 3 ) ed and will be included in the next release of our National Evaluation Report. The system includes all of the components necessary to build multiple styles of handrails as well as the framing connections to ensure that it is built to meet requirements. We will introduce some very exciting additions to the ChoiceDek line later this year. Colored decking products are in the early stages of field testing. A new line of decking called ChoiceDek Performance Plus is now available in eastern Canada."

Shaner (Epoch)

"We've expanded the sales force to service our growing business. We're adding new sleek railing designs."

Goes (Nenuood)

"We started to manufacture all our products in three new colors in 2001. These colors (sequoia red, sierra brown and driftwood gray) are being introduced slowly throughout the U.S. and by the end of 2003 will be able to be ordered in most of the territories in which Nexwood is sold. In the same manner, Nexwood manufactures a tongue-and-groove profile that is very popular in the East and is slowly being introduced to other parts of the U.S."

Pruett (CertainTeed)

"New in 2003 are a post cap and a post base ring. We'll introduce decorative accessories in March. The post cap will be moulded not milled to bring the cost down and provide consistent aesthetics. We added a new tan color to our decking January 1."

Long(LP)

"In 2002 we introduced decking and railing in three colors: Pacific cedar, western redwood and driftwood gray. Coloring adds cost, but consumers have shown that the premium appearance is well worth the price. We have also introduced WeatherBest Crystal White Railing, a premium wood composite railing system with an integral co-extruded white PVC capstock. The system includes top and bottom rails, stair handrail, balusters and a 4x4 post sleeve."

Stammen (Dayton)

"Dayton Technologies has developed a new vinyl deck and rail program targeted to the two-step and one-step distributors. This vinyl plank will have two different colors on the same plank, allowing for reduced inventory at the distributor's site, and installation similar to that of wood products. It will be marketed under the name Dual-Deck. At the same time, we are near completion of releasing a composite profile, which will complement our vinyl program."

Morin (CPI)

"We are test-marketing a new fencing product. The main advantage is its light weight."

Wier (Kroy)

"We just completed spending $4 million on a composite line in our Fair Bluff facility to produce composite deck, rail and other materials. We will have some major product announcements in this arena, the first quarter of 2003."

Robinson (Plastic Lumber Co.)

"This coming season we will market two styles of railing. We are also branding our product 'Leisure Deck' and putting on a bigger marketing push."

Moseby (DuraBord)

"We are working on expanding our sales to wholesale distribution and manufacturers in the future."