Vinyl products have been around for some time, but its use for patio decking is still relatively new. There are several of these vinyl (PVC) decks on the market, but Kane International Corp. is featuring a new decking system called "Sheerline" from L.B. Plastics Inc. of Mooreville, N.C.
It was introduced to home builders this year.
"This is much stronger than the building code requires for both concentrated and live loads," said Bill Ignas, vinyl manager at Kane International in Mapunapuna. Tests were done by Architectural Testing Inc. of York, Pa.
Installation is done without special spacers, and pieces snap together in what is called "one piece installation." Ignas recommends using a screw gun to attach decking to the wooden or steel frame. Fastening screws are hidden.
"You can put in vinyl decking in half the time of other decks," Ignas said.
Cost is slightly higher than a redwood deck, but wood requires a protective coating, he said. Sheerline decking sells for $3.09 a square foot, compared to about $3 a square foot for redwood in 2-inch-by-6-inch pieces, Ignas said.
The vinyl decking comes in a slip-resistant surface in white, grey or beige color.
The first shipment of the decking material will be coming to Hawaii in about three or four weeks, he said.