Frequently Asked Questions

CleverDeck Xtreme

What is WPC or Wood Plastic Composite Timber?

WPC or composite timber is an extruded timber replacement product made from a mix of plastic (virgin and recycled) and cellulose fibre (wood/bamboo/rice husk).
It was invented in the USA in the late 1980’s/early 1990’s and has been evolving ever since. Primarily designed as a substitute for certain types of timber (i.e. decking) it is currently produced and sold all over the world.

Why buy composite timber (WPC) in place of timber?

Composite timber offers a low maintenance alternative to timber with no oiling or staining required and the option of a concealed fix. Unlike most timbers, using composite timber ensures that there are no splinters, sap or tannins runs, no rotting and it is also white ant/termite resistant.

Composite Timbers – are they all the same?

No, they all vary according to the type, quality and quantity of the raw materials used as well as the profile of the extrusion, quality of tooling and the skill/knowledge/IP of the manufacturer. Futurewood uses high grades of post-industrial recycled polyolefin (plastic) as well as virgin polymers, hardwood wood flour, rice husks, pigments, UV inhibitors and fungicides. In the harsh Australian environment, solid composite timber decking is preferred to hollow composite timber decking due to the differences in surface area/moisture absorption and profile strength/design. Finish look and the weathering (colour change) of composite timber decking should all be considered before deciding which brand of composite timber you choose. Fixing of decking boards is also an important consideration as not all concealed fixing is the same; some types of concealed fixing are expensive and cumbersome and require glue to be used under each board. Futurewood Deck Clips are very easy to use, reduce installation time (saving labour costs) and are very economically priced. There are 4 types of clips in the range that cover most installations and provide a complete deck board fixing system.

What is Futurewood’s CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking made of?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is made from cellulose material (hardwood sawdust ground into a wood flour) and recycled and virgin polyolefin plastic. The CleverDeck Xtreme shell is made from a proprietary combination of virgin polyolefins (plastics), filler, colour pigments and UV inhibitors. The core of CleverDeck Xtreme is made from a combination of hardwood wood flour and recycled polyolefins (plastics), filler and fungicides.

What is the board size and what colours is CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking sold in?

The standard CleverDeck Xtreme decking boards are 138mm wide x 23mm thick x 5400mm long. The standard colours are Ash Grey, Autumn Drift, Basalt, Desert Oak, Graphite, Limestone Grey and Riverstone Grey. The design of the variable pigmentation in the CleverDeck Xtreme decking boards allows for colour variation across each board and from board to board as well as from batch to batch. Custom length boards and colours are available subject to certain conditions.

How strong is CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking compared to timber decking?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is produced using a proprietary blend of plastic and cellulose fibre materials. The formulation has been designed and tested to meet the demands of a typical Australian deck when installed in accordance with the fixing recommendations. For further information regarding design and performance characteristics refer to the technical specifications on the Futurewood web site.

How hot will the surface of CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking become when exposed to continual direct sunlight and how does this compare with timber?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking will heat up at a slightly higher rate than timber when exposed to direct sunlight. Darker colours will retain more surface heat (up to 20 degrees Celsius or more above the ambient temperature). The scalloped back feature of the CleverDeck Xtreme decking boards is designed to allow a cooling air flow between the joists and the deck boards.

Does CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking burn and can it be used in bush fire zones?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking will burn under excessive heat like all timbers. There are many different Australian standards that relate to the fire performance of a building material. These standards apply based on building types, uses and material placement/applications. AS3959.2009 relates to a BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) rating. CleverDeck Xtreme has been tested and passed the BAL29 level.

Is CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking stain and chemical resistant?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is produced with a polymer skin that is highly resistant to most chemicals and has an extremely high level of moisture resistance. Any chemical/liquid spills should be washed off immediately to avoid the potential of any damage to the polymer shell that may occur over time if the spill remains on the decking surface. Fat, wine and other food stuffs do not stain the material and can easily be washed off using Futurewood’s composite timber cleaner. You can contact Futurewood directly to purchase the composite timber cleaner and refer to the CleverDeck Xtreme Care and Cleaning Guide on the Futurewood web site for more information.

Will the colour in CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking fade over time?

The colour in CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking has been developed using special pigments mixed with a combination of virgin polymers. UV inhibitors are also added to help protect the colour pigments used in the product from continual exposure to UV radiation. The colour will gradually lighten over a long time but will hardly be noticeable much like the duco on your car.

Does CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking last longer than a timber deck and what warranty is offered?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is protected by a 10 year “no fuss” Australian domestic or 7 year commercial warranty that includes covering the cost of labour to replace any faulty boards. The special polymers used in the formulation of CleverDeck Xtreme will ensure that you enjoy years of low maintenance use unlike some timbers that will rot and deteriorate after only a few years if not properly maintained.

Does CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking cost more than a timber deck?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is supplied in a fully finished condition unlike most timber decking. When you consider the cost of cleaning and sealing/oiling/staining your timber deck and the ongoing maintenance associated with annual oiling etc. CleverDeck Xtreme should save you a considerable amount of time and money over the many years of its useful life compared with high maintenance timber. Refer to the “cost calculator” on the Futurewood web site to help you compare the cost of using CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking against hardwood timber on your deck. Simply type in your own quoted prices to determine the cost comparison between CleverDeck Xtreme and the alternative timber for your decking project.

What sort of subframe is needed to support CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking boards and what is the minimum total height of the decking and subframe?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking can be installed on to any type of subframe that meets the required load bearing capacity. The joists can be timber or metal. You can also use Futurewood’s Ultralow Aluminium Joist and Pedestal Grid System that can be used where the maximum height of the deck including the subframe needs to be as low as possible. The Futurewood Ultralow Aluminium Joist and Pedestal Grid System can, when fixed with a CleverDeck Xtreme decking board, fit within a 70mm maximum height limit.

How do I work with and fix CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking boards?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking can be worked with normal wood working tools. CleverDeck Xtreme is fixed using the Futurewood Deck Clip System providing a very appealing concealed fix finish that also makes it very quick and easy to lay. It can also be screwed directly to timber joists by drilling through the face of the board. Refer to the Futurewood web site for full fixing guidelines.

What joist spacing is recommended for CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking will span a maximum of 450mm between joist spacings in domestic installations when installed at 90 degrees to the joist. Closer joist spacing improves the strength of the deck so a joist spacing of 400mm will provide more strength than a spacing of 450mm and if you reduce the spacing to 300mm it will be stronger again. For further information and angled installations refer to the Futurewood web site for full fixing guidelines.

If I use timber joists to support CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking, will the joists need any maintenance over time?

Unlike CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking, timber joists will eventually rot so depending on the timber quality they may not last as well as the CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking. Futurewood recommend and supply a waterproof joist protection tape that is recommended for all timber joist deck installations. The joist tape will greatly increase the life of the timber joists by effectively waterproofing the top of the timber joists.

Can CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking be used as a structural component in a deck?

No, CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is designed for use as decking and is classed as “non-structural” material.

Is CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking slippery when wet?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is finished in a standard wood grain pattern that provides a mid-range slip resistance when either wet or dry. CleverDeck Xtreme can also be supplied in a coarse grain or super slip resistant finish that are available for custom orders.

Does CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking expand and contract as it heats and cools?

Yes, CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking, like most materials will expand as it heats and contract as it cools. Boards generally expand in length with very little change to their width. Your decking design should allow for this and we recommend that long lengths of decking are not butt joined to each other. The preferred method of installing long lengths of decking would be to use a breaker board between the long boards running at 90 degrees. Refer to the Futurewood web site for full fixing guidelines.

Is CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking mould resistant?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking has a fungicide added in the formula that helps to reduce the risk of mould growing within the material under normal conditions. Due to the ability of mould spores to be transported in the air it is important to keep the surface of your CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking free of dirt and other contaminants to reduce the incidence of mould growing on your deck.

Can CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking be used near the sea or around swimming pools?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking has a very low moisture absorption rate and is virtually waterproof with only the cut edges allowing any moisture penetration. The cut edges can be sealed if required so that the whole deck will be impervious to the effects of salty air and saltwater. As such CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is highly suitable for use in coastal areas and around pools, spas and water features. Care should be taken to avoid spilling any highly corrosive swimming pool chemicals on CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking. Any spills should be cleaned up and washed off immediately.

What is the minimum height required to install CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking over soil or over concrete?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is virtually waterproof and can be installed as low as 100mm above well drained soil/screenings or 25mm above self-draining concrete as long as the area below the deck is well drained and there is no opportunity for any water to pool and remain for long periods under the decking. Care must be taken to ensure that the area under the deck is cleaned periodically to stop water ponding against any dirt of leaf matter that may have fallen through the gap between the decking boards and build up over time.

What are the environmental credentials of CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking?

The core of CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is primarily made from hardwood wood flour (sawdust) and recycled plastic (post industrial waste). These products can be classed as 100% recycled/reclaimed. The shell is made from virgin polymers. A small amount of colour pigment, UV inhibitor and other chemicals are added to the recycled products in order to produce the high-quality final product. When you add the fact that you are choosing CleverDeck Original and not using Merbau, or any other rainforest timber, your decision is even more environmentally sound!

Is CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking scratch resistant?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is produced to a level of hardness and abrasion resistance that makes it very difficult to scratch and it is more than suitable for the general traffic use required of a domestic/residential deck. As virtually no product is completely scratch resistant, care should be taken to avoid dragging heavy objects over the deck as deep scratches may be difficult to remove and we recommend that any outdoor furniture is fitted with appropriate protection under the legs/feet to avoid scratching from moving tables and chairs over the deck. If a small scratch is visible on the deck it can be removed using a heat gun. Refer to the CleverDeck Xtreme Care and Cleaning Guide and the scratch removal video on the Futurewood web site for more information.

How do I clean and look after my CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking requires only occasional cleaning in order to keep the surface free of dirt and general grime. We recommend normal sweeping and cleaning of your deck at regular intervals. You can use a pressure washer to clean your deck but do not run this at greater than 8Kpa (1200 PSI) or position the nozzle within 300mm from the deck surface otherwise this may mark the surface of the deck. Periodic cleaning with Futurewood composite timber cleaner will help to keep the surface in top condition and will greatly reduce the potential of any mould growth forming on dirt or food scraps left to build up on the deck. You can contact Futurewood directly to purchase the composite timber cleaner and refer to the CleverDeck Xtreme Care and Cleaning Guide on the Futurewood web site for more information.

Why is the CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking warranty only 10 years when some suppliers offer 25-year warranties or more?

CleverDeck Xtreme composite timber decking is protected by a 10 year “no fuss” Australian domestic or 7-year commercial warranty that includes covering the cost of labour to replace any faulty boards for the first 3 years. Even with the best quality assurance in the world there is still a slight chance that a manufacturing mistake might occur which is why the warranty is offered in the first place. Knowing that any such problem will normally show itself within the first 3-4 years of the products life means that the Futurewood warranty period of 10 years has you covered more than twice over. The warranty is unlimited and based on the simple premise that if a manufacturing fault becomes apparent during the warranty period, Futurewood Australia will make sure that it is fixed. Simple, easy and “no fuss”. Some manufacturers or sales agents like to use the term of the warranty as a marketing gimmick, they tell you they offer a 25-year limited warranty but then you need to read the fine print to find out what sort of warranty you are really getting. There are literally pages of reasons why a warranty will not be acted upon, how the value of the warranty shrinks year after year, that it will not be passed on to a second owner, or even worse, that the warranty is from an overseas factory who may or may not even honour it in Australia!
When you strip away the marketing jargon and look at the real value of the warranty, Futurewood stands out with local on the ground support, genuinely prepared to help when you need it.

CleverDeck Original

What is WPC or Wood Plastic Composite Timber?

WPC or composite timber is an extruded timber replacement product made from a mix of plastic (virgin and recycled) and cellulose fibre (wood/bamboo/rice husk).
It was invented in the USA in the late 1980’s/early 1990’s and has been evolving ever since. Primarily designed as a substitute for certain types of timber (i.e. decking) it is currently produced and sold all over the world.

Why buy composite timber (WPC) in place of timber?

Composite timber offers a low maintenance alternative to timber with no oiling or staining required and the option of a concealed fix. Unlike most timbers, using composite timber ensures that there are no splinters, sap or tannins runs, no rotting and it is also white ant/termite resistant.

Composite Timbers – are they all the same?

No, they all vary according to the type, quality and quantity of the raw materials used as well as the profile of the extrusion, quality of tooling and the skill/knowledge/IP of the manufacturer.

Futurewood uses high grades of post- industrial recycled polyolefin (plastic) as well as virgin polymers, hardwood wood flour, rice husks, pigments, UV inhibitors and fungicides. In the harsh Australian environment, solid composite timber decking is preferred to hollow composite timber decking due to the differences in surface area/moisture absorption and profile strength/design. Finish look and the weathering (colour change) of composite timber decking should all be considered before deciding which brand of composite timber you choose. Fixing of decking boards is also an important consideration as not all concealed fixing is the same; some types of concealed fixing are expensive and cumbersome and require glue to be used under each board. Futurewood Deck Clips are very easy to use, reduce installation time (saving labour costs) and are very economically priced. There are 4 types of clips in the range that cover most installations and provide a complete deck board fixing system.

What is Futurewood’s CleverDeck Original composite timber decking made of?

CleverDeck Original Composite decking is made from a combination of cellulose material (hardwood wood flour & rice husks) and recycled polyolefin (plastic from industrial waste).
These main ingredients are classified as recycled and represent 90% of the overall material. They are combined with colour pigments, UV inhibitors fungicides and fillers to deliver a very low maintenance and sustainable alternative to the rainforest timbers, typically used for outdoor decking.

What is the board size and what colours is CleverDeck Original composite timber decking sold in?

The standard CleverDeck Original decking boards are 138mm wide x 23mm thick x 5400mm long. The standard colours are Weathered Stone, Walnut, Slate Grey, Mahogany and Chocolate.
Custom length boards and colours are available subject to certain conditions. Slight colour variation between boards is natural however we recommend that wherever possible you purchase all the boards required for your project from one batch in order to avoid more extreme colour variation that may occur between different batch runs.

How strong is CleverDeck Original composite timber decking compared to timber decking?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking is produced using a proprietary blend of plastic and cellulose fibre materials. The formulation has been designed and tested to meet the demands of a typical Australian deck when installed in accordance with the fixing recommendations. For further information regarding design and performance characteristics refer to the technical specifications on the Futurewood web site.

Can CleverDeck Original composite timber decking be used as a structural component in a deck?

No, CleverDeck Original composite timber decking is designed for use as decking and is classed as “non-structural” material.

How hot will the surface of CleverDeck Original composite timber decking become when exposed to continual direct sunlight and how does this compare with timber?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking will heat up at a slightly higher rate than timber when exposed to direct sunlight. Darker colours will retain more surface heat (up to 20 degrees Celsius or more above the ambient temperature).

Does CleverDeck Original composite timber decking burn and can it be used in bush fire zones?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking will burn under excessive heat like all timbers. There are many different Australian standards that relate to the fire performance of a building material.
These standards apply based on building types, uses and material placement/applications. A commonly referred to standard is AS1530.3 which relates to ignitability, spread of flame, heat evolved and smoke developed. CleverDeck Original composite decking performs well across these indices for this standard. AS3959.2009 relates to a BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) rating. CleverDeck Original is suitable for BAL – low and in some instances BAL12.5 or BAL19. If a higher BAL rating is required, you could use CleverDeck Xtreme capped composite timber decking that has been tested and passed BAL29. Contact Futurewood for further information regarding BAL options.

Is CleverDeck Original composite timber decking stain and chemical resistant?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking is produced with a non-chemical reactive polymer core and has a high level of moisture resistance.
Any chemical/liquid spills should be washed off immediately to avoid the potential of any staining or damage that may occur over time if the spill remains on the decking surface. Fat, wine and other food stuffs may stain the material if left to soak in over time. Most stains can be washed off using Futurewood’s composite timber cleaner. You can contact Futurewood directly to purchase the composite timber cleaner and refer to the CleverDeck Original Care and Cleaning Guide on the Futurewood web site for more information.

Will the colour in CleverDeck Original composite timber decking fade over time?

The colour in CleverDeck Original composite timber decking runs right through the boards.
These boards are made with UV inhibitors that help protect the colour pigments used in the product from continual exposure to UV radiation. The colour will soften over the first 4-12 weeks that your deck is exposed to the elements. This is a natural bedding in process caused through the lightening of the cellulose fibre in the formulation. Once the initial colour weathering has taken place, the lightened shade will be maintained over many years.

Does CleverDeck Original composite timber decking last longer than a timber deck and what warranty is offered?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking is protected by a 10 year “no fuss” Australian domestic or 7 year commercial warranty.
The special polymers used in the formulation of CleverDeck Original will ensure that you enjoy years of low maintenance use unlike some timbers that will rot and deteriorate after only a few years if not properly maintained.

Does CleverDeck Original composite timber decking cost more than a timber deck?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking is supplied in a fully finished condition unlike most timber decking. When you consider the cost of cleaning and sealing/oiling/staining your timber deck and the ongoing maintenance associated with annual oiling etc. CleverDeck Original should save you a considerable amount of time and money over the many years of its useful life compared with high maintenance timber. Refer to the “cost calculator” on the Futurewood web site to help you compare the cost of using CleverDeck Original composite timber decking against hardwood timber on our deck.
Simply type in your own quoted prices to determine the cost comparison between CleverDeck Original and the alternative timber for your decking project.

What sort of subframe is needed to support CleverDeck Original composite timber decking boards and what is the minimum total height of the decking and subframe?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking can be installed on to any type of subframe that meets the required load bearing capacity.
The joists can be timber or metal. You can also use Futurewood’s Ultralow Aluminium Joist and Pedestal Grid System that can be used where the maximum height of the deck including the subframe needs to be as low as possible. The Futurewood Ultralow Aluminium Joist and Pedestal Grid System can, when fixed with a CleverDeck Original decking board, fit within a 70mm maximum height limit.

How do I work with and fix CleverDeck Original composite timber decking boards?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking can be worked with normal wood working tools.
CleverDeck Original is fixed using the Futurewood Deck Clip System providing a very appealing concealed fix finish that also makes it very quick and easy to lay. It can also be screwed directly to timber joists by drilling through the face of the board. Refer to the Futurewood web site for full fixing guidelines.

What joist spacing is recommended for CleverDeck Original composite timber decking?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking will span a maximum of 450mm between joist spacings in domestic installations when installed at 90 degrees to the joist.
Closer joist spacing improves the strength of the deck so a joist spacing of 400mm will provide more strength than a spacing of 450mm and if you reduce the spacing to 300mm it will be stronger again. For further information and angled installations refer to the Futurewood web site for full fixing guidelines.

If I use timber joists to support CleverDeck Original composite timber decking, will the joists need any maintenance over time?

Unlike CleverDeck Original composite timber decking, timber joists will eventually rot so depending on the timber quality they may not last as well as the CleverDeck Original composite timber decking.
Futurewood recommend and supply a waterproof joist protection tape that is recommended for all timber joist deck installations. The joist tape will greatly increase the life of the timber joists by effectively waterproofing the top of the timber joists.

Is CleverDeck Original composite timber decking slippery when wet?

No, CleverDeck Original composite timber decking has a coarse sanded non-slip finish applied to both sides of the decking board after it has been extruded.
This provides an excellent slip resistant surface in either wet or dry conditions. CleverDeck Original composite timber decking has undergone various slip testing and has achieved a P5 rating from ATTAR Laboratories in Melbourne Australia.

Does CleverDeck Original composite timber decking expand and contract as it heats and cools?

Yes, CleverDeck Original composite timber decking, like most materials, will expand as it heats and contract as it cools. Boards generally expand in length with very little change to their width. Your decking design should allow for this and we recommend that long lengths of decking are not butt joined to each other. The preferred method of installing long lengths of decking would be to use a breaker board between the long boards running at 90 degrees. Refer to the Futurewood web site for full fixing guidelines.

Is CleverDeck Original composite timber decking mould resistant?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking has a fungicide added in the formula that helps to reduce the risk of mould growing within the material under normal conditions. Due to the ability of mould spores to be transported in the air, it is important to keep the surface of your CleverDeck Original composite timber decking free of dirt and other contaminants to reduce the incidence of mould growing on your deck. Extremely damp areas with little or no air flow may promote mould growth and regular cleaning of your deck will be required under these extreme conditions.

Can CleverDeck Original composite timber decking be used near the sea or around swimming pools?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking has a low moisture absorption rate and is impervious to the effects of salty air and saltwater. As such CleverDeck Original composite timber decking is highly suitable for use in coastal areas and around pools, spas and water features. Care should be taken to avoid spilling any highly corrosive swimming pool chemicals on CleverDeck Original composite timber decking. Any spills should be cleaned up and washed off immediately.

What is the minimum height required to install CleverDeck Original composite timber decking over soil or over concrete?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking absorbs a minimal amount of water and can be installed as low as 100mm above well drained soil/screenings or 25mm above self-draining concrete as long as the area below the deck is well drained and there is no opportunity for any water to pool and remain for long periods under the decking. Care must be taken to ensure that the area under the deck is cleaned periodically to stop water ponding against any dirt of leaf matter that may have fallen through the gap between the decking boards and build up over time.

What are the environmental credentials of CleverDeck Original composite timber decking?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking is primarily made from discarded rice husks, hardwood wood flour (sawdust) and recycled plastic (post industrial waste) making it an environmentally sustainable product as these products can be classed as 100% recycled. A small amount of colour pigment, UV inhibitor and other chemicals are added to the recycled products in order to produce the high-quality final product. When you add the fact that you are choosing CleverDeck Original and not using Merbau, or any other rainforest timber, your decision is even more environmentally sound!

Is CleverDeck Original composite timber decking scratch resistant?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking is produced to a level of hardness that makes it suitable for the general traffic use required of a domestic/residential deck. The product is supplied with a coarse sanded finish on both sides. Most smaller scratches can be removed easily by scraping a handheld wire wheel (the type that fits in to the chuck on an electric drill) over the scratch in the direction of the grain. Larger scratches caused by dragging heavy objects over the deck may be difficult to remove so we recommend that any outdoor furniture is fitted with appropriate protection under the legs/feet to avoid any major scratching from moving tables and chairs over the deck. Refer to the CleverDeck Original Care and Cleaning Guide on the Futurewood web site for more information.

How do I clean and look after my CleverDeck Original composite timber decking?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking requires only occasional cleaning in order to keep the surface free of dirt and general grime. We recommend normal sweeping and cleaning of your deck at regular intervals. You can use a pressure washer to clean your deck but do not run this at greater than 8Kpa (1200 PSI) or position the nozzle within 300mm from the deck surface otherwise this may mark the surface of the deck. Periodic cleaning with Futurewood composite timber cleaner will help to keep the surface in top condition and will greatly reduce the potential of any mould rowth forming on dirt or food scraps left to build up on the deck. You can contact Futurewood directly to purchase the composite timber cleaner and refer to the CleverDeck Original Care and Cleaning Guide on the Futurewood web site for more information.

Why is the CleverDeck Original composite timber decking warranty only 10 years when some suppliers offer 25-year warranties or more?

CleverDeck Original composite timber decking is protected by a 10 year “no fuss” Australian domestic or 7-year commercial warranty. Even with the best quality assurance in the world, there is still a slight chance that a manufacturing mistake might occur which is why the warranty is offered in the first place. Knowing that any such problem will normally show itself within the first 3-4 years of the products life, means that the Futurewood warranty period of 10 years has you covered more than twice over. The warranty is unlimited and based on the simple premise that if a manufacturing fault becomes apparent during the warranty period, Futurewood Australia will make sure that it is fixed. Simple, easy and “no fuss”. Some manufacturers or sales agents like to use the term of the warranty as a marketing gimmick, they tell you they offer a 25-year limited warranty but then you need to read the fine print to find out what sort of warranty you are really getting. There are literally pages of reasons why a warranty will not be acted upon, how the value of the warranty shrinks year after year, that it will not be passed on to a second owner, or even worse, that the warranty is from an overseas factory who may or may not even honour it in Australia!
When you strip away the marketing jargon and look at the real value of the warranty, Futurewood stands out with local on the ground support, genuinely prepared to help, if support is ever needed

EnviroSlat

What is WPC or Wood Plastic Composite?

WPC is an extruded timber replacement product made from a mix of plastic (virgin and recycled) and cellulose fibre (wood/bamboo/rice husk). It was invented in the USA and refined in the late 1980’s/early 1990’s. Primarily designed as a substitute for certain types of timber (i.e. decking/screening) it is currently produced and sold all over the world.

Why buy WPC in place of timber?

WPC offers a low maintenance alternative to timber with no oiling or staining required and the option of a concealed fix. Unlike most timbers, using WPC ensures that there are no splinters, sap or tannins runs, no rotting and it is also white ant/termite resistant.

WPC – are they all the same?

No they all vary according to the type, quality and quantity of the raw materials used as well as the profile of the extrusion, quality of tooling and the skill/knowledge/IP of the manufacturer. Futurewood uses high grades of post-industrial recycled polyolefin (plastic), hardwood wood flour, rice husks, pigments, UV inhibitors and fungicides. In the harsh Australian environment solid WPC decking is preferred to hollow WPC decking due to the differences in surface area/moisture absorption and profile strength/design. Finish, look and the weathering (colour change) of WPC decking or fencing should all be considered before deciding which brand of WPC that you choose. Fixing of decking boards is also an important consideration as not all concealed fixing is the same; some types of concealed fixing are expensive and cumbersome and require glue to be used under each board. Futurewood’s Deck Clip System is very easy to use, reduces installation time (saving labour costs) and is very economically priced. There are 4 types of clips in the range that cover most installations and provides a complete deck board fixing system.

What is Futurewood made of?

Futurewood is made from a combination of cellulose material (hardwood wood flour & rice husks) and 35% recycled polyolefin (plastic from industrial waste). These main ingredients are classified as recycled/reused and represent 90% of the overall material. They are combined with colour pigments, UV inhibitors fungicides and fillers to deliver a very low maintenance and sustainable alternative to the rainforest timbers, typically used for outdoor decking, cladding and fencing in Australia.

What lengths and colours are EnviroSlat boards sold in?

The standard length boards are 5400mm long. Custom length boards are available subject to certain conditions. The standard colours are Walnut, Slate Grey, Weathered Stone and Midnight. Slight colour variation between boards is natural however we recommend that wherever possible you purchase all of the boards required for your project from one batch in order to avoid more extreme colour variation that may occur between different batch runs.

Will EnviroSlat burn?

EnviroSlat profiles will burn like most timbers. There are many different Australian standards that relate to the fire performance of a building material. These standards apply based on building types and material placement/applications. A commonly referred to standard is AS1530.3 which relates to ignitability, spread of flame, heat evolved and smoke developed Futurewood composite timber performs well across these indices for this standard.

Is EnviroSlat stain and chemical resistant?

EnviroSlat is produced with a non-chemical reactive polymer base and has an extremely high level of moisture resistance. However, any chemical/liquid spills should be washed off immediately to avoid the potential of any staining of the cellulose material that will occur over time if the spill is allowed to remain on the boards. Fat, wine and other food stuffs may stain the material if left to soak in over time. We recommend cleaning with a special purpose composite timber cleaner available from Aqualis Chemicals. We do not recommend using bleach as it may affect the colour pigment (refer to the Futurewood care and maintenance guidelines for more information).

Will the colour in EnviroSlat fade over time?

The colour in EnviroSlat runs right through the boards. These boards are made with Ultra-Violet inhibitors that help protect the colour pigments used in the product from continual exposure to UV radiation. The colour will soften over the first 4-12 weeks that the boards are exposed to the elements. This is a natural bedding in process caused through the lightening of the cellulose fibre in the formulation. Once the initial colour weathering has taken place the lightened shade will be maintained over many years.

Does EnviroSlat last longer than a timber screen or fence and what warranty is offered?

Most EnviroSlat products are supplied with a 10 year domestic or 7 year commercial warranty against rotting and termite damage. The special polymers used in the formulation of EnviroSlat will ensure that you enjoy years of low maintenance use unlike some timbers that will rot and deteriorate after only a few years if not properly maintained.

Does EnviroSlat cost more than a timber?

EnviroSlat is supplied in a fully finished condition unlike most types of timber. When you consider the cost of cleaning and sealing/oiling/staining your timber deck and the ongoing maintenance associated with annual oiling etc. EnviroSlat should save you a considerable amount of time and money over the many years of its useful life compared with high maintenance timber.

How do I work with and fix EnviroSlat boards?

EnviroSlat can be worked with normal wood working tools. EnviroSlat can be fixed to aluminium, steel or timber fence posts or any other type of posts or frame using a range of different screw types. Refer to the appropriate Futurewood fixing guidelines for more information.

What are the spanning requirements for EnviroSlat screening?

No, EnviroSlat is designed for use as either screening or fencing and is classed as a “non-structural” material.

Does EnviroSlat expand and contract as it heats and cools?

Yes, EnviroSlat, like most materials, will expand as it heats and contract as it cools. Boards generally expand in length with very little change to their width. Your decking design should allow for this fact. EnviroSlat needs to be fixed at either 600mm or 900mm intervals with an appropriate gap/spacing at the ends of the boards. Refer to the EnviroSlat fixing guidelines for more information.

Is EnviroSlat mould resistant?

EnviroSlat has a fungicide added in the formula that helps to reduce the risk of mould growing within the material under normal conditions. Due to the ability of mould spores to be transported in the air it is important to keep the surface of your EnviroSlat free of dirt and other contaminants to reduce the incidence of mould growing on your screen or fence. Extremely damp areas with little or no air flow may promote mould growth and regular cleaning of your screen or fence will be required under these extreme conditions.

Can EnviroSlat be used near the sea or around swimming pools?

EnviroSlat has a very low moisture absorption rate and is impervious to the effects of salty air and salt water. As such EnviroSlat is highly suitable for use in coastal areas and around pools, spas and water features. Care should be taken to avoid spilling any highly corrosive swimming pool chemicals on EnviroSlat. Any spills should be cleaned up and washed off immediately.

What are the environmental credentials of EnviroSlat?

EnviroSlat is primarily made from discarded rice husks, hardwood wood flour (sawdust) and recycled plastic (post industrial waste) making it an excellent environmental product that can be classed as 90% recycled/reclaimed. A small amount of colour pigment, UV inhibitor and other chemicals are added to the recycled products in order to produce the high quality final product. When you consider that by choosing EnviroSlat you are not using Merbau or any other rainforest timber it makes your decision even more environmentally sound!

Is EnviroSlat scratch resistant?

EnviroSlat screening and fencing boards have a coarse sanded finish on both sides of the boards so that the surface will hide any minor scratching but care should be taken when handling the boards to make sure that they are not dropped or dragged over sharp objects as they are pre-finished.

How do I clean and look after my EnviroSlat?

EnviroSlat requires only occasional cleaning to keep the surface free of dirt and general grime. We recommend periodic cleaning of your screen or fence using a mild detergent or household cleaner. You can use a pressure washer to clean your fence but do not run this at greater than 8Kpa (1200 PSI) or position the nozzle within 300mm of the boards otherwise this may mark the surface of the boards. Cleaning will help to keep the boards looking good and will greatly reduce the potential of any mould growth forming on dirt that might build up over time on your fence. Refer to the care and maintenance guidelines for more information.