I have a client here in the Northwest that wanted me build a 900 Sq. ft. multi-layered deck using “Trex”, which I have used many times in the past. Now the client has changed their minds and wants me to use “Carefree Decking”, which I have never used.
In talking to my local lumber yard, who used to inventory Carefree Decking….but now only special orders it, I was not especially excited by their responses for the product nor the installation.
I was mystified about how to trim the ends of the decking, eliminate the “expansion” problems, and make it look good. I want a clean end, especially on the numerous stairs, without having to jump through hoops.
I also am concerned about the traction on the decking after a frost or rain. I have reports of it being very slippery!
Does anyone have anything “good”, or “bad” to contribute regarding the product?
Replies
Trex is great. Carefree has issues which you are only just finding out about. Sometimes when you already know the answer, the question must be asked again. Do you really need the work bad enough that you are willing to use a product which may not meet your expectations? How much (extra) time will you allow yourself to try and get it to look as good as you expect it to? What will a scratch look like after it gets dirt and grime pushed into it? I feel that I can say these things only because I have been forced into this situation many times. Sometimes the happy client is the one that you state your case to and tell them that you are not comfortable with their decision of product. If they still insist and you still don't feel comfortable with the product, walk away. If you are correct in your suspicions, you will be the one they hire to come back and replace the decking that they chose. Just my opinion, so don't beat me up. Sure would be nice if people would listen to their contractor and not the local big box flunky. Sometimes we actually know what we are talking about also. But, some people hate Trex. What can I say.
Kim Sheehan
Meridian Construction
Thanks for your straight forward response......you said exactly what I felt. I've been through all those times when I built things that the client wanted, even if I didn't agree. Now, I'm on the downside of my career and want to enjoy what I do. I only take small jobs that I can do in the manner I see fit......and I expect to be satisfied with the outcome. Sometimes I think pride is worth more than money! Perhaps, that's why I have so many repeat customers.
It's refreshing to see that I am not alone.
1.Trex is much easier to install than Care free.
2. Care Free creates alot of static electricity because it is plastic. I mean big zaps!
3. Care Free expands and contracts much more that Trex. We had decking almost fall off the joist in the cool morning and be butt tight and buckle by noon. This is after we installed it to factory specs and cut the 16' material in half to help remedy the problem.
4. Most the people that want CareFree have already purchased it to save money so if you are installing only, make sure that they, not you will be responsible for the trips to the lumber store for fasteners,clips,fascia.
5. One thing that is a plus about CareFree is that it not slipery when wet, but it is slipery when dry. Very Strange.
6.CareFree does have a wide selection of fascia,we had to make our own 2x2 by cutting the 2x4 material.
7. Carefree will clog up in your table saw because it makes shavings not sawdust.
there is a picture of a CareFree deck on my website http://www.pro-dek.com
Hope this helps a little
Bob
"Rather be a hammer than a nail"
I was in Lowes and they were selling their own brand by Weyerhaeuser called ChoiceDek. Now I not sure if its like or is the same as Carefree Decking but isnt Trex. Looks pretty good except has little or no structual strength. The static electricty part worries me, what area of the country do you live in? Roger
Carefree Decking has more of a "plastic feel" to it. I have also seen the ChoiceDek at Lowes. Same problem....how do you finish the ends when you want the ends to extend past the perimeter? Also, have reports that when "nailed" close to the ends, splitting can occur.Johnny On The Beach...........
VERY NICE WORK!!! VERY NICE!
Thanks for your input..........it's helped tremendously. I see from the excellent presentations on your Website we're in the same neighborhood so you understand the weather issues. I have taken all your comments to heart and will make my decisions wisely based on them.
Thank You...............(I like your bench support systems, very attractive)
Johnny On The Beach...........
Edited 6/28/2002 10:35:30 AM ET by Johnny192
Edited 6/28/2002 10:36:19 AM ET by Johnny192
Thanks Johnny- I use two bench support systems. 3x12 toe nailed to the deck or 6x6 box framed. Good luck and have fun building that deck. Bob
"Rather be a hammer than a nail"