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Frequently Asked Questions



General

What are composites?

Fiberon outdoor living products are made from locally sourced, recycled materials and crafted at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility using only the finest raw materials available and the latest in polymer technology. It is this combination of high-quality ingredients and manufacturing expertise that produces the best-performing outdoor living products in the industry.


What is HDPE?

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) provides superior physical and mechanical performance compared to mixed density resins (LLDPE, LDE and MDPE).  HDPE resins are typically found in more rigid products like drinking cups and food packaging.  The use of HDPE results in a decking board that is stiffer, more durable and much harder than other decks made with inferior grades of plastic.


What is multi-chromatic surface?

Unlike other decking boards that use shadows from embossed or molded surfaces, Fiberon products are developed with a proprietary process that injects more vibrant hues into the board to create the rich, natural color variation found in real wood like Cedar, Redwood, and Ipe.


How do I clean and maintain Fiberon decking?

Composite decking materials are pretty resilient. Clean your deck at least twice each year to remove pollen, organic debris, dirt or stains. Generally, a broom or a blower will work better than a hose for removing scattered organic materials like leaves. Over time, especially with kids and pets, the deck may become soiled. Dislodge accumulated dirt with a broom or by using soap and water and a scrub brush. Scrubbing in the direction of the grain is best. Thoroughly rinse off with a garden hose. Click here for full care and maintenance.


Can I power wash Fiberon Decking products?

Skilled professionals may use a pressure washer with wide fan tips, at low pressures under 1,500 psi and at safe distances, 12" above deck. In the wrong hands your composite deck can be damaged. Exercise extreme caution. Improper use could lead to damage of the surface and in-turn, a loss of your warranty coverage.


Do Fiberon products require water sealing?

No. Fiberon products require only periodic cleaning with soap and water. Deck sealants are not required or recommended.


Are Fiberon products slippery when wet?

The textured surface is actually more slip resistant when wet.


Will salt-water hurt Fiberon products?

Salt-water splash has not been found to be detrimental.


What if my decking gets scratched?

Just as wood-decking materials can get marred or gouged, the surface of composite decking can also be scratched. Outdoor Flooring , Horizon Decking and Pro-Tect are the Fiberon products most resistant to scratches. If scratches do occur, we recommend allowing normal wear marks to disappear gradually.


Will heat from cooking grills or fire pits harm Fiberon Decking?

Not usually, but some composites do stain from dripping grease. Place a vinyl-backed splatter guard mat underneath your grill.

Fire features and fire pits are increasingly popular in outdoor living environments. Fire can damage many building products including Fiberon decking. Improperly installed fire features and fire pits can cause damage to the surface of Fiberon decking via direct exposure to the flame or excessive radiated heat. Proper caution should be taken when designing, installing and using these features to ensure damage does not result.


How do I clean off stickers and glue residue from Fiberon Products?

Use denatured alcohol and PVC pipe cleaning liquid.


How much ventilation is required under a deck?

Make sure there is adequate and unobstructed air flow under the deck to prevent excessive water absorption. Improve drainage or grade flat areas where standing water may gather. For decks with limited ventilation, six inches of clear ventilation is required.


Can I put Fiberon Decking over a concrete patio?

Fiberon cannot be installed directly to a solid surface. Allow a minimum of 6" (15 cm) between bottom of deck substructure/joists and the ground. The deck design must allow unrestricted airflow under at least 50% of its perimeter to permit adequate ventilation.


What kind of Fiberon railing systems are available?

Fiberon offers different railing systems for easy, outdoor living – Find out more about Fiberon railing systems.


What makes Fiberon Decking and Railing safe for my home?

Fiberon products are urea formaldehyde-free and no toxic chemicals are used in the manufacturing of our products. Products installed according to our manufacturer's instructions and to local building codes provide sturdy decking and surrounds that do not splinter, crack or decay, protecting workers and users from potential injuries.


What makes Fiberon Decking sustainable?

Fiberon Products are made from locally sourced, recycled materials.  Over 31,000 tons of wood and plastics are also diverted from landfills and incinerators each year.  Products are produced in an energy efficient, virtually waste-free manufacturing process.  Fiberon products deliver long–term performance that requires no chemical preservatives, paint or stains that are common for wood decks, railing and fencing. 


How do Fiberon products produce less waste during installation?

Fiberon products provide unique features that help contractors reduce waste by up to 15 percent per job. Grooved and square edge boards come in a variety of lengths so contractors will have to cut fewer boards to fit, creating less scrap. Boards that are reversible have usable surfaces on both sides that reduce the number of cuts needed, eliminating waste.


Where can I buy Fiberon products?

Fiberon products are available through distributors and nearly 500 retail outlets.
Find a Fiberon contractor or distributor.


Are there designated Fiberon contractors?

Yes. To find a Fiberon contractor near you click here.


Can I install Fiberon or do I need a contractor?

Fiberon materials are available to you for decking, railing or fencing installation.  Be sure to download our installation instructions.  Also check out the complete technical specifications, material properties and product dimensions for all Fiberon products.


Is it possible to get sample products before purchasing?

Yes. Ask your contractor or contact a local dealer for samples. Or go to our Fiberon store to order samples online.


How do I contact Fiber Composites?

To contact Fiber Composites, call 1-800-573-8841 or click here.


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Horizon® Decking

What is Horizon decking with PermaTechâ„¢ Innovation?

Horizon decking with PermaTech™ Innovation is engineered to set a new industry standard for unequaled stain and fade resistance.  Groundbreaking technology sets this product apart, chemically bonding strong HDPE (High-density Polyethylene) and wood fiber with the most resilient surface material available for the ultimate in low maintenance outdoor product performance.  Horizon decking is as stylish as it is strong, designed for those who demand beauty and low maintenance durability.


What is PermaTech™ Innovation?

PermaTech™ Innovation is a groundbreaking technology that chemically bonds strong HDPE (High-density Polyethylene) and wood fiber with the most resilient surface material available.


What are the primary advantages of Horizon decking?

Horizon provides the ultimate in low maintenance performance with unequaled stain and fade resistance. Horizon is environmentally friendly, produced with recycled materials and is resistant to termites, mold and decay. Horizon composite decking is backed by a 25-year stain and fade limited warranty.


What colors of Horizon are available?

Horizon is available in rich, fade resistant colors: Ipe, Rosewood, Castle Gray, Tudor Brown and Greystone.


What maintenance is involved with Horizon?

Clean your deck as often as needed, at least twice each year to remove pollen, organic debris, dirt or stains. Generally, a broom or a blower will work better than a hose for removing scattered organic materials like leaves. For general cleaning, use soap and water or mild household cleaners. See our care and maintenance section for further considerations.


Will Fiberon Horizon Decking fade?

The color of the decking will lighten after installation but the base color tone of the product will remain for years.


Can Horizon be painted or stained?

Generally, wood composites do not absorb or retain paint and stain as well as natural wood. Fiberon advises consumers to test application of paint or stain before applying.  The rich choice of colors available in Horizon decking eliminates the need for paint or stain.


How does heat affect Horizon?

Heat retention is greater in composite decking than that of wood decking. Consumers should test the product in barefoot applications to ensure suitability.


How resistant is Horizon to the elements?

Fiberon Horizon decking resists fading, splinters, termites, and decay, providing a deck surface that will remain beautiful for years to come.  Horizon’s PermaTech Innovation truly makes this product more durable than any on the market.


Will Horizon splinter?

No. Thanks to PermaTech Innovation, Horizon Decking offers the ultimate in  durability, safety and low maintenance.


Why are Horizon boards reversible?

Horizon has identical grains on both sides of the board making both surfaces usable, creating less scrap that might accumulate from installation mistakes.


What lengths of Fiberon Horizon Decking are available?

Horizon Boards come in 12’, 16’ and 20’ lengths (grooved for hidden fasteners or square edge for traditional installation), so contractors can cut fewer boards, creating less scrap per job.


Is railing available with Horizon decking?

Yes. Horizon Decking is complemented by Horizon railing, featuring a smooth low maintenance exterior that protects the railing from harmful sunlight, harsh winters and blazing summers.  For more on Horizon railing, click here.


Can Horizon use hidden fasteners?

Yes. Horizon decking has grooved boards that accept the Fiberon Hidden Deck Fastener System.  Click here to learn more about these fastener.


Why is Horizon faster to install?

Horizon decking accepts Phantom Hidden Deck Fasteners, which require 50 percent fewer fasteners than traditional decks so contractors can build a deck up to 30 percent faster.  Also, the variety of deck board lengths eliminates the need for cutting and trimming, saving time on the worksite.


Does Horizon Composite Decking meet green building requirements?

Yes.  LEED points for recycled content and locally available materials are given where applicable.


What makes Horizon Decking environmentally friendly?

Horizon contains over 50% recycled material and all Fiberon Products are made from locally sourced, recycled materials.  Over 31,000 tons of wood and plastics are also diverted from landfills and incinerators each year.  Products are produced in an energy efficient, virtually waste-free manufacturing process.


Where do I purchase Horizon?

Fiberon products are available through distributors and nearly 500 retail outlets.  Click here to find a Fiberon contractor or distributor.


Can I view existing Horizon decks?

Yes.  Visit the Inspiration Gallery for more pictures of Horizon Decking.


Can Fiberon help me design my Horizon deck?

Yes.  Use our Deck Designer tool located here.


Does Horizon have a warranty?

Yes. There is a 25-Year Limited Warranty on Horizon as well as a 25 Year Stain and Fade Warranty. See the warranty section of this website for more information.


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Outdoor Flooring™ PVC Decking

What are the primary advantages of Fiberon Outdoor Flooring?

Fiberon Outdoor Flooring™ consists of a cellular PVC (foamed Poly Vinyl Chloride) core with no fiber fillers and takes the wood – and its performance issues – out of the board, utilizing only the positive performance features of PVC.


What colors of Fiberon Outdoor Flooring are available?

Fiberon Outdoor Flooring's patented surface technology allows a wide range of colors that are guaranteed to endure for years. Available in bold and rich colors, Outdoor Flooring offers the popular colors of Cedar, Driftwood, Jatoba and Spanish Cedar. Outdoor Flooring offers industry-leading color retention, unmatched by any other PVC product with the category's exclusive warranty against stain and color fade.


How does the color perform over time?

The color of Outdoor Flooring is warranted against color fade for 25 years. Everything under the sun fades, but Outdoor Flooring's colors stand up to the sun as no other decking can. Guaranteed not to fade over 5 Delta E (Hunter) units, it resists fading due to the patent pending Lumenite surface technology. Color change this slight is not generally detectable by casual observers.


What maintenance is involved with Fiberon Outdoor Flooring?

General cleaning twice a year is recommended to remove pollen, organic debris, dirt or stains. A broom or a blower will work better than a hose for removing scattered organic materials like leaves. Dislodge accumulated dirt with a broom or by using soap and water and a non-abrasive scrub brush. Thoroughly rinse off with a garden hose. Outdoor Flooring PVC Decking never needs staining or painting and is highly resistant to stains, termites and mold.


Can I paint or stain Fiberon Outdoor Flooring?

The rich choice of colors available in Outdoor Flooring PVC Decking eliminates the need for paint or stain. Painting or staining is not recommended and may void the warranty.


How does heat affect Fiberon Outdoor Flooring?

The infrared, heat reflective Sensibuilt Lumenite™ surface retains heat less than composite decking and is comfortable underfoot.


What are the differences between HDPE products and PVC Decking?

HDPE and PVC decking offer many of the same benefits, like weather and splinter resistance. PVC is lighter in weight and carries a Class A fire rating for flame spread.


How resistant is Fiberon Outdoor Flooring to the elements?

Fiberon Outdoor Flooring resists fading, splinters, termites, and decay, providing a deck surface that will remain beautiful for years to come. The Sensibuilt Lumenite fusion-bonded surface provides a protective surface that outperforms other PVC decking.


Will Fiberon Outdoor Flooring splinter?

Fiberon Outdoor Flooring resists splintering.


Is Fiberon Outdoor Flooring available in various board lengths?

Fiberon Outdoor Flooring boards come in 12', 16' and 20' lengths so contractors can cut fewer boards, creating less scrap per job.


Can Fiberon Outdoor Flooring use hidden fasteners?

Yes. Fiberon Outdoor Flooring has the exclusive Deck Pilot Hidden Fastener System that is accurate and consistent in installation with square edge boards, without the cost of extra hardware. Click here to learn more about the Deck Pilot Hidden fastener system.


Does Fiberon Outdoor Flooring meet green building requirements?

Yes. LEED points for recycled content and locally available materials are given where applicable. Fiberon products deliver long–term performance that require no chemical preservatives, paint or stains that are common for wood decks, railing and fencing.


Where do I purchase Fiberon Outdoor Flooring?

Fiberon products are available through an extensive network of distributor and retail outlets. Click here to find Fiberon near you.


Can Fiberon help me design my Fiberon Outdoor Flooring deck?

Yes. Use our Deck Designer tool located here.


Does Fiberon Outdoor Flooring have a warranty?

Yes. There is a Limited Lifetime Warranty on Fiberon Outdoor Flooring plus the only 25-Year Stain and Fade Warranty on PVC decking. See the warranty section of this website for more information.


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Professional Decking

What is Professional Decking?

Professional Decking is standard composite decking enhanced with performance additives for long-term performance.


What are the primary advantages of Professional decking?

Professional is never needs painting or staining and is resistant to splinters, termites and decay. The reversible boards save on cuts and reduce waste.


Does Fiberon Professional Decking come in a variety of colors?

Professional Decking is available in three rich colors: Cedar, Gray and Brown.


How does the color perform over time?

No messy, expensive sealants are needed to prevent graying. The initial color (darker than the final color) will lighten but not gray. The final color is very stable.


What maintenance is involved with Professional Decking?

Professional Decking never needs staining or painting. Clean your deck twice each year to remove pollen, organic debris, dirt or stains. For dirt, grime and stains, please refer to our Care and Maintenance guidelines.


Will Fiberon Professional Decking fade?

The color of the decking will lighten after installation, but the base color tone of the product will remain for years to come.


Can Professional Decking be painted or stained?

Generally, wood composites do not absorb or retain paint and stain as well as natural wood.  Fiberon advises consumers to test application of paint or stain before applying.


How does heat affect Professional Decking?

Heat retention is greater in composite decking than that of wood decking. Consumers should test the product in barefoot applications to ensure suitability.


How resistant is Professional Decking to the elements?

Professional Decking is made for outdoor living, resistant to weather extremes, splinters, termites and decay.


Will Professional Decking splinter?

Professional Decking is splinter resistant.


How do I repair Professional Decking if it gets scratched?

Just as wood-decking materials can get marred or gouged, the surface of Professional can also be scratched. We recommend allowing normal wear marks to fade, as they will blend in with the weathered color.


What lengths of Fiberon Professional Decking are available?

Professional boards come in 12', 16' and 20' lengths so contractors can cut fewer boards, creating less scrap per job. Accessories include matching 12" fascia.


Is railing available with Professional decking?

Complementary Horizon Plus rail kits are available. Click here for more information on Fiberon railing.


Can Professional Decking use hidden fasteners?

Yes. Professional Decking has grooved (GV) boards that accept the Phantom Hidden Deck Fastener System.  Click here to learn more about these fasteners.


Does Professional Composite Decking meet green building requirements?

Yes. LEED points for recycled content and locally available materials are given where applicable. Fiberon Products are made from locally sourced, recycled materials. Over 31,000 tons of wood and plastics are also diverted from landfills and incinerators each year. Products are produced in an energy efficient, virtually waste-free manufacturing process.  Fiberon products deliver long–term performance that requires no chemical preservatives, paint or stains that are common for wood decks, railing and fencing.  Plus, the fully reversible boards minimize product waste during installation. View more information about the sustainability of Fiberon products.


How can I buy Fiberon Professional Decking?

Fiberon products are available through distributors and nearly 500 retail outlets. Click here to find a Fiberon contractor or distributor.


Can I install Professional Decking or do I need to hire a contractor?

Fiberon materials are available to you for decking, railing or fencing installation.  Be sure to download our installation instructions.  Also check out the complete technical specifications, material properties and product dimensions for all Fiberon products.


Can I view existing Professional decks?

Yes.  Visit the Idea Gallery for more pictures of Professional Decking.


Can Fiberon help me design my Professional deck?

Yes. Use our Deck Designer tool located here.


Does Professional Decking have a warranty?

Yes. We have a 20-year limited warranty on Professional Decking. See the warranty section of this website for more information.


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Phantom Hidden Fastener System

How do you remove a deck board that has been fastened with hidden fasteners?

  1. Rip the damaged board the entire length on parallel lines approximately 3" apart. This allows the center and each board edge to be removed. Remove the damaged board.
  2. Next, cut off only the single flanges from the exposed hidden fasteners (the flange with the "Phantom" symbol).
  3. Cut a new deck board to length, and pivot it into the double flanges as per a normal installation.
  4. Drop the board in place and check all the gaps.
  5. Finish by face fastening with color-matched composite screws at board ends and every 16" o.c. between on what was the single flange side.

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Fiberon Fencing

What range of widths does Fencing come in?

Fiberon Fencing offers the choice of two picket widths. 3 ½” and 7" wide pickets are available in square top styles, while the 3 ½” pickets are available in dog ear top style as well.


Why is Fiberon Fencing fast and easy to install?

An eight foot run requires only thirteen 7” pickets and posts with steel reinforcement that allows a wide range of lateral and slope adjustments for easy and fast installation.


Does Fiberon Fencing come in a variety of colors?

Fencing is available in three rich colors of natural hardwoods: Coastal Cedar, Pacific Redwood and Weathered Pine.


Can I paint or stain Fiberon Fencing?

The fencing requires limited maintenance and is resistant to weather, splinters, warping and termites, as well as never needing stain or paint.


How is Fiberon Fencing environmentally friendly?

Fiberon Fencing is composed of 84% recycled conent and will also never require chemical preservatives, stain or paint. Read more about Fiberon sustainability on this page.


What is the TriPlex backer rail?

TriPlex features three components - composite sleeve, steel and wood reinforcements that allow for 8’ spans.  Two screws are provided to secure backer rails, resulting in no pilot holes being required.


What are the benefits of steel reinforce posts?

Posts with steel reinforcement allow a wide range of lateral and slope adjustment without mitering backer rails, reducing installation time.


Where is Fiberon Fencing available?

Fiberon products are available through distributors and nearly hundreds of retail outlets.
Click here to find a Fiberon retailer, contractor or distributor.


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