We have used both wood and composite t&g porch flooring in our residential work over the last two decades--the choice for each project made depending upon the historic nature of the work, client aesthetic preferences and budgets. Some of the early composites (i.e., TenduraPlank) have not held up well in our climate here in the NE, but so far our experiences with Azek "Porch" have been very good, in terms of installation, durability, maintenance, etc. The material now comes in four or five different (integral) colors, one of which closely approximates the typical "gray enamel" paint color used here in eastern PA, and is dimensioned to match a traditional t&g porch floor board. This is a key feature, as it can then be cut square at the ends and left exposed, just as traditional porch floors are detailed in our region. It does have slightly eased edges and a wood grain pattern, which is aesthetically objectionable to us, but our clients have told us it helps greatly with slip resistance. It has worn like iron for clients who own dogs and has resisted red-wine stains--or so we have been told!
If your project is not under tight historic review restrictions, and you are looking for something more durable than wood, it is definitely worth a closer look. That said, our HC has approved it for use on locally listed projects.
Also, be sure to closely follow Azek's technical recommendations for individual board gapping, as well as those requirements related to the on-center spacing of the supporting structure.
Finally, I will note that Azek was recently purchased by TimberTech and we have not had an opportunity to spec the product since that change, but order some samples and see for yourself!
Best of luck.
Sincerely,
Christian A. Busch, Principal
20TH CENTURY PRESERVATION, LLC
The Suntop Homes
Ardmore, PA
PS. I do wonder how the thermal treated wood products would hold up as porch flooring. They do take paint very well and we have used them for exterior siding and were pleased with the results, but each material has its applications--interesting suggestion!
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Christian Busch
20th Century Preservation, LLC
Ardmore PA
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Original Message:
Sent: 04-23-2020 08:15
From: Kathleen Sullivan
Subject: Alternatives to Traditional Wood Porch Flooring?
For rehab of residential porch.
Would appreciate thoughts on alternatives to porch wood flooring.
Would like to use a more traditional 3 inch width.
man made-
- Looking at Aeratis Traditional- am not familiar with solid pvc products. Any experience with it? Seems to have limited market presence
- The big ones AZEC etc - celluar pvc
Natural-
- Looking at black locust
Would appreciate feedback on your experience with alternatives and advice on specification.
Thank you
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Kathleen Sullivan AIA
Trio Architecture pllc
Hastings on Hudson NY
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