Monday, February 06, 2012

Capstock Decking for Maryland & Virginia Homes

Capstock decking is a composite material with a protective cap layer, making it an excellent choice for Montgomery County and Fairfax County homeowners seeking low-maintenance outdoor living spaces. This hybrid decking combines wood-like aesthetics with enhanced durability against the region's variable climate, resisting fading, staining, and mold better than traditional lumber while requiring minimal upkeep.

A new development in composite decking, capstock decking is made of a composite deck core and covered with a thin protective wrap – hence the name capstock. As with all products, there are advantages and disadvantages to choosing this type of material.

Trex Transcends and Fiberon Horizons are the producers of capstock decking. Trex in particular produces a green product while Fiberon’s is slightly less expensive than its competitor’s offering. Both get the job done, providing that more wood-like appearance for which capstock is known. The color options and combinations are many, allowing you to satisfy your aesthetic, match your home, and create curb appeal. There are also many railing options so that you can further personalize your outdoor living space.

Now, what are the drawbacks to using capstock decking? It doesn’t perform well in high-moisture areas. Particularly rainy environments with decks built closer to the ground have encountered problems when using capstock decking. Water can invade the open composite ends of the deck boards and cause swelling – and that you definitely do not want in a carefully constructed deck. While some capstock decking is available as fully encapsulated boards, providing more protection from the elements, the grooves that give the capstock its wood-like appearance ultimately compromise the surface.

While you have a variety of color combinations from which to choose when opting for capstock decking, there are limitations when it comes to design. If you’re envisioning a curved deck and bending deck boards, it’s time to expand your search for a decking material – capstock decking cannot be used in this manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about A Look at Capstock Decking

How much does capstock decking cost?

Capstock decking costs vary by brand and board quality. Trex Transcends costs more than Fiberon Horizons. Our deck contractor near you in MD and VA provides free estimates tailored to your project size and material choice.

What's the difference between Trex and Fiberon capstock decking?

Trex Transcends is eco-friendly but pricier; Fiberon Horizons is budget-friendly. Both deliver wood-like aesthetics and color variety. Our composite deck builder in Montgomery County and Fairfax County helps you select the best fit for your budget and climate.

Can capstock decking work in humid climates like Maryland and Virginia?

Capstock struggles in high-moisture areas. Water infiltrates open composite ends, causing swelling. For rainy Maryland and Virginia climates, ask our deck contractor near you about fully encapsulated boards or alternative composite materials.

Can you build a curved deck with capstock material?

No. Capstock decking cannot bend for curved designs. Our outdoor living contractor in the DMV recommends exploring other composite or pressure-treated options if you envision a curved deck layout.

What outdoor living contractor services do you offer besides decks?

Design Builders provides screened porches, outdoor kitchen installation, and complete outdoor living solutions throughout Montgomery County MD and Fairfax County VA. Contact us for a consultation in Bethesda, Potomac, McLean, Arlington, or nearby.

A Look at Capstock Decking