Q. What is Boardwalk made of?

A. Boardwalk Composite Lumber is made with CertainTeed’s exclusive patented EcoTech material (U.S. Patent No. 6,344,268) that blends PVC, a weatherable polymer, with recycled natural fibers for an even textured decking material. Boardwalk is cleaner, smarter and stronger that the competition.


Q. What is the difference between Boardwalk Decking and wood?

A. Boardwalk decks combine the look of wood with the durability of vinyl, while wood decks require ongoing maintenance. Boardwalk’s barefoot-friendly surface provides outstanding traction and slip resistance and won’t splinter, crack, warp or harbor insects like wood.


Q. What sizes and lengths does Boardwalk come in?

A. Boardwalk is available in popular deck lumber dimensions. 5/4 x 6 decking planks are available in 20',16' and 12' lengths while 2 x 6 decking planks are available in 16' and 12' lengths.


Q. Does Boardwalk come with a warranty?

A. Yes. Boardwalk has a 10 year limited non-prorated warranty and covers against splintering, splitting, checking, rot, decay and termite damage. CertainTeed’s exclusive warranty is among the best in the industry.


Q. How does Boardwalk react to weathering?

A. When exposed to sunlight and water, Boardwalk weathers uniformly from medium-tone color to a pleasant, lighter hue similar to that of weathered cedar. UV screeners have been added to help assure that Boardwalk maintains its good looks over time. It does not fade as much or have a "checker board" affect like other composite decking products.


Q. How do I dispose of Boardwalk? Can it be taken to a landfill?

A. This product should be discarded with normal construction debris or household waste. Because of the plastic content, Boardwalk must not be burned.


Q. Where can I buy Boardwalk and how much does it cost?

A. Contact one of our National Sales Reps at Austin Wholesale Decking Supply, or fill out one of our

Installation and Care
Q. Do I need special tools to work with Boardwalk?

A. Working with Boardwalk is as simple as working with wood. Conventional tools can be used for cutting, drilling, routing, and nailing. Carbide blades are recommended for best performance. Protective clothing and safety glasses should always be worn for your safety. This versatile lumber is also suitable for planter boxes, benches, and other deck amenities.


Q. What type of fasteners and nails are recommended?

A. Virtually any deck fasteners work well with Boardwalk. Nails, screws and bolts can all be used. As with wood, spiral shank nails provide better holding power in Boardwalk than do common nails. Galvanized or stainless steel screws are highly recommended to take full advantage of Boardwalk’s durability. Self-tapping or deck screws generally do not require pre-drilling.



Q. Can Boardwalk be used for load bearing applications, such as joists, beams or structural posts?

A. No. While the engineered design of Boardwalk provides superior surface integrity and strength, it is not intended for use in structural applications and can only be used for decking and post railing.


Q. What joist spans should I use for my deck when using Boardwalk Composite Decking?

A. Joist spacing for Boardwalk 5/4 x 6 decking must be no more than 20 inches on center for residential uses. Joist spacing for 2 x 6 planks must be no more than 24 inches on center for residential uses. When laying decking diagonally across joists, adjust joist spacing for appropriate load. Special conditions (i.e. herringbone design) will require engineering inspections and/or reduced spans. Always consult local building codes.


Q. Does Boardwalk require gapping between planks?

A. Yes. As with any decking material, width-to-width gapping is essential for drainage and to take into account changes in dimension due to temperature. A gap of 1/8 inch (approximately the width of a 16 penny nail) will satisfy most installation conditions. When joining planks end-to-end, the size of the gap required will depend on the length of the planks, the temperature at the time of installation, and the highest anticipated temperature in the local area. As a rule of thumb, allow 1/16 inch end gap for every 20 degrees Fahrenheit difference between installation temperature and the highest temperature expected during the year.


Q. Can Boardwalk be painted or stained?

A. Although not required to maintain Boardwalk’s longevity, paint or stain can be applied. Quality, acrylic exterior latex deck paints are suggested for best results. Boardwalk must first be primed before applying paint. See your paint supplier for recommended products. You may wish to postpone the sealing of wood deck components until they weather to the same color as Boardwalk. Keep in mind that once Boardwalk is painted or stained, subsequent applications will be necessary to maintain its appearance, and slip resistance will be affected. Deck sealants are not recommended or required.


Q. How do I care for my Boardwalk deck?

A. Periodic washing with a soft bristle brush and clean water from a garden hose may be necessary to remove surface dirt and chalk, which accumulate on the surface. This is a normal condition for pigmented materials exposed to the elements. For additional information on removing mildew and stains, please call 1-800-233-8990 for the Boardwalk Technical Bulletin on Cleaning.


Product Characteristics

Q. How should Boardwalk be stored and handled?

A. Individual Boardwalk planks may weigh more than wood. Planks should be stored on a flat surface supported every 24 inches. Do not stack more than 4 skids high.


Q. Does Boardwalk Composite Decking provide good traction?

A. Boardwalk meets ADA recommendations for slip resistance (ASTM F1679). Its heavy-duty performance features mean it can be used for decks as well as light commercial applications such as docks, boat slips, piers and marinas.


Q. What happens to Boardwalk in cold weather?

A. Boardwalk decking performs well in extreme cold weather environments. From an installation standpoint, during cold weather, Boardwalk may become stiffer due to its plastic content. In these cases, pre-drilling before fastening is recommended.

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