If you’re building something and you want it to last, it’s important to pay close attention to the materials you’re building it with.
This is especially true when it comes to boathouses, docks and decks, areas that are exposed to constant moisture, baking sun, winds, ice, and more. You need products that are durable, low maintenance, waterproof, and versatile.
For many years, professional builders have been using top quality synthetic lumber like Owens Corning Weardeck to build docks and decks. But, in recent years, pros and amateur builders alike have been using synthetic lumber for much, much more.
“We’re seeing more and more builders and DIY property owners use synthetic lumber for interior and exterior trim, door casings, dock boxes, garbage bins, tables, and many other projects,” says Jason Smith of Baycrest Distribution, the Muskoka supplier of Owens Corning Weardeck. “Basically, anything you can build with natural wood, you can build with our synthetic lumber.”
He says the many benefits of this top-of-the-line, 100 percent synthetic lumber product have made it increasingly attractive to cottagers and homeowners with waterfront properties in Muskoka.
Using an example of cutting and installing trim, he explains the difference between traditional wood and synthetic lumber.
“With traditional lumber, you’re cutting the piece, installing, sanding, then filling and painting it or wrapping with aluminum,” says Jason. “Sooner than later, you’ll have to replace it as it deteriorates. With our synthetic lumber, it’s a one-and-done situation. You choose your preferred colour, you cut, you install, you’re done – saving both time and money.”
Jason describes the North American-made synthetic lumber as a “lifetime” material that is waterproof, rot proof, and mould proof. It has also been designed to not split, splinter, twist or warp.
Rather than take Baycrest Distribution’s word for it, here’s what recent client Paul Feick had to say after his purchase of Owens Corning Weardeck for two of his Muskoka properties.
He says after years of dealing with aging cedar planks that splintered and required constant upkeep, making the switch to Weardeck has been a game-changer.
“It’s incredibly durable, easy to clean with a power washer without any worry of damage, and most importantly, it’s much safer for my grandchildren to play on,” says Paul. “My previous cedar decking lasted about nine years before needing replacement. With Weardeck, I can confidently say we’re set for a lifetime. It looks great, performs even better, and gives me real peace of mind. I highly recommend it.”
With a proprietary mixture – including a UV protection package, pigments, and anti-oxidizing aids to ensure consistent colour throughout – the interior of the board is exactly the same as the surface, so there’s no need to treat cut ends.
This also means the colour and the cool-to-the-touch feature stay true throughout its lifetime, never needing to be painted or having a coating applied. There are 10 colours to choose from, with Baycrest Distribution stocking them all in Muskoka and offering same-day pickup or fast scheduled delivery.
“The boards are built to stand the test of time and remain strong in the face of environmental swings and seasonal changes,” says Jason. “It’s why they are the best choice for building projects at your Muskoka home or cottage.”
Many uses for Weardeck Another Baycrest Distribution client, Allan Skinner, says Jason introduced him to Weardeck approximately four years ago.
“We have used it on two projects for docks, decks and stairs,” says Allan. “The product is visually pleasing, performs extremely well, and is readily available from Baycrest. It certainly helped with minimizing maintenance and upkeep – and it’s also eco-friendly!”
There are many fantastic characteristics that make Weardeck the strongest manmade product on the market, including the fact it has virtually no expansion or contraction. It comes with span capabilities of 24-inches on centre for the 1×6 board and 36-inches on centre for the 2×8 and 2×10 boards when used on decks and docks.
Weardeck comes in board profiles of 1×6, 1×8, 2×2, 2×4, 2×6, 2×8, 2×10, and 2×12. The 2x boards are approved for use as structural members such as joists, ledger boards and stair stringers too. Boards also come in black and white options, which is ideal for all your trim needs.
“There are some boathouses and outdoor sheds where the window and door casings, trims, frames, and wall sills are all made with Weardeck,” says Jason. It’s not just for waterfront properties, either: contractors are using Weardeck to build decks and other structures at all kinds of inland properties.
Contractors also mention being able to quickly cut and install each piece with less muss-and-fuss than other products. And they appreciate the dimensional consistency of each board, thus allowing for easier and faster installation.
“There are so many benefits to using Weardeck for your building projects and we’re seeing new ones everyday,” says Jason. “Choosing Owens Corning Weardeck will save time and money because it’s the last board you’ll ever need to buy. Come see us in Bala to learn more.”
TEXT CHRIS OCCHIUZZI
PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
