Want a new deck, but worried about the time, energy, and money required to keep it looking like new? Have you considered any of the new, lower maintenance alternatives to pressure-treated lumber? There are a number of high-quality composite and synthetic decking materials on the market today. Some of the benefits to using composite decking include:

• Composite materials won’t warp, crack, splinter, twist, check, or do the other crazy things wood can do.
• Composite decking is mold, mildew, moisture, insect, and termite resistant.
• Although composite materials are more expensive initially, you save time and money on upkeep so they pay for themselves over time.

Composite decking is available in a variety of colors, styles, and finishes to suit any taste. And, most composite decking materials are warranteed against a variety of defects and problems, so you can feel good about your investment. Plus, many of these warranties are transferable if you decide to sell your home.

OutBack Construction is an authorized contractor for the following composite/synthetic decking solutions:

• Azek: Engineered with solid-core, cellular vinyl, with no wood fillers. Moisture, scratch, mold, stain, and insect resistant. Lightweight. Custom fasteners including color-matched screws and exclusive hidden fasteners are available. www.azek.com
• Trex: Made from a combination of reclaimed wood and plastic that resists moisture, sunlight, and insect damage, so there’s no rotting, splintering, or other deterioration. Maintains a solid, natural feel, with good traction even when wet. www.trex.com
• TimberTech: Made from reclaimed wood fibers and pure plastic resins. Provides skid-free, splinter-free surface that doesn't need painting, staining, or sealing and resists fading, weathering, rotting, and warping. Provides a consistent, natural look for your deck. www.timbertech.com