Posted Thursday, July 24, 2008 CR’s July report features buying advice & ratings of decking material & stains Yonkers, NY — Most homeowners installing decks use real wood, but Consumer Reports’ latest tests of common decking materials reveal that synthetic planks can offer lasting good looks with less upkeep. The July issue features the results of Consumer Reports’ one-year exposure tests of wood, composite, plastic, and aluminum decking materials, which found that some synthetic decking didn’t make the grade for rigidity, and some tonier wood products looked worse for wear. If replacing a deck isn’t a priority but maintenance is, the report also features Consumer Reports’ Ratings of 16 fully tested stains and six partially tested stains. But don’t bother looking for a bargain. Consumer Reports’ grueling exposure tests found...
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