Lots to consider with composite deck boards

Question: Is there a synthetic wood veneer that I could install over the top of my pressure-treated deck, or will I have to tear the deck out? The structure itself is still in good condition -- I just don’t want the hassle of tearing off all the wood decking and taking it to the dump.

Answer: You can install composite deck boards over what you currently have, but there are some things to consider. Make sure the present deck has good drainage with large enough gaps between the existing deck boards to allow for water runoff. You’ll have to install spacers between the current layer of decking and the new one to create an airspace that will help to prevent rot from occurring between the two layers.

Also consider how your current deck is attached to your house. The added thickness will end up being higher and may create a trip hazard at the exterior door.

Even though you don’t want to do it, you would be better off tearing out the current deck -- it’s still cheaper than completely rebuilding. And don’t forget, there are many recycling centers that now take lumber and may even pay for it.

For the marble or onyx look

Question: My husband and I are considering replacing the vanity tops in our bathrooms. We have heard a lot about synthetic marble and synthetic onyx. Can you tell me what these products are and the differences between the two?

Answer: The products to which you refer are called cultured marble and cultured onyx. Although the products are very similar in construction and equally durable, there are distinct differences in appearance.

Cultured marble is a material composed of a mixture of natural stone and polyester resin. It has a gel-coat finish, which provides a nonporous, stain-resistant surface. No two pieces are ever the same. Cultured marble products have a deeply veined colorization throughout, not merely on the exterior, which results in the appearance of real marble.

Cultured onyx also is made of natural stone and polyester resin with a gel-coat finish. However, onyx products have a radiant translucence, giving the appearance of depth.