Plastic, WPCs to Lead Comeback in Decking

U.S. demand for decking is growing only 2.4Vo annually, but demand for wood-plastic composite and plastic lumber versions will grow at double-digit rates. according to a new Freedonia Group study.

Wood decking will remain the market leader, accounting for 2.'73 billion linear ft. by 2016, out of a total U.S. market of 3.3 billion linear ft. But wood decking demand will grow only 0.9Vo annually between 20 I I and 20t6.

Plastic decking will see the most rapid growth, thanks in part to the availability of cellular PVC decking that better resembles natural wood. Plastic decking demand will grow 15.2Vo per year, reaching 150 million lineal ft. by 2016.

Wood-plastic composite decking will grow Il .4Vo annually, reaching 420 million linealft. by 2O16.

The residential market consumed 6l%o of decking in 20 I I , a lower share than the historical averase. The depressed level of housing completions suppressed demand, as did an unfavorable lending environment that made it more difficult for homeowners to take out home equity loans, a common method of funding such projects as deck installation and replacement.

Going forward, residential decking demand is forecast to rise at the fastest pace of all markets. An expected rebound in housing completions will spur gains in the new residential segment, while more flexible credit conditions should support upgrades and repairs.