FAQ Composite Decking Quebec | 7 Facts About Solid-Core Decks

Like all outdoor materials exposed to direct sunlight (dark wood, concrete, pavers), composite absorbs heat. However, our high-density technology and 60% wood fiber content allow for efficient heat dissipation. For high-exposure areas, we recommend our lighter shades, which remain comfortable for feet even during Quebec’s peak summer heatwaves.

Our boards are made from recycled materials, combining reclaimed wood fibers and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Unlike low-end products, our blend is fused at high temperatures to create a solid-core with no hollow cavities. This unique composition ensures near-zero water absorption (1.1%) and superior structural durability.

The difference lies in climate resistance. Most big-box products are “capped” (covered with a thin plastic membrane that can peel or crack). Écoplast offers a homogeneous product throughout its entire mass: you can sand it, rout it, and cut it just like real wood without compromising its protection. It is a local investment, engineered right here to survive our extreme freeze-thaw cycles.

Water absorption is the primary cause of composite degradation in Canada. According to our ASTM D1037 tests, our material shows an absorption rate of only 1.1%, while many competing products exceed 3%. A low rate means that moisture does not penetrate the core of the board, thereby eliminating the risks of swelling, internal mold, and cracking during spring freeze-thaw cycles.

Yes, and this is a major advantage of our Solid-Core technology. Unlike hollow boards or “capped” products (with a thin membrane), our boards are solid and homogeneous throughout. This allows you to use a router to create rounded edges, custom grooves, or architectural finishes directly into the material, without ever exposing cavities or weakening the product’s structure.

Thanks to our high-temperature fusion process and our density of 1.16 g/cm³, our boards offer superior dimensional stability. While all materials expand with heat, Écoplast composite follows a predictable and uniform curve. By following our installation guides for joint spacing, you achieve a surface that remains straight and safe, without warping, even during extreme temperature swings from -30°C to +30°C.

Thanks to our high-density Solid-Core technology, our boards allow for standard installation on joists spaced 16 inches center-to-center. Unlike entry-level or hollow plastic products that often require reduced 12-inch spacing to prevent sagging (the “bounce” effect), our boards maintain their structural rigidity. This allows you to save on labor time and the overall framing costs of your deck.

Absolutely. The uniform density of our composite allows you to screw directly through the board (surface fastening) without any risk of cracking or warping—a major advantage over pure plastics that expand excessively. High-quality screws sink cleanly into the material, creating a solid and durable fastening that never compromises the product’s integrity or its moisture resistance.

This is one of the greatest advantages of Écoplast: our boards are solid and consistently colored throughout the entire mass. You don’t need end caps or edge banding to hide the interior of the boards. Exposed cuts remain aesthetic and professional-looking, even after years. You can also sand or round off cut edges for a perfect transition, without ever exposing cavities or different materials.

Absolutely not. One of the greatest advantages of our composite is that it requires no painting, staining, or sealing—ever. The color is integrated throughout the entire mass of the product during manufacturing. Unlike pressure-treated wood that peels and turns grey over time, our boards maintain their integrity and appearance without you having to invest time or money in costly annual maintenance.

Maintenance is remarkably simple: mild soap and water are more than enough. For seasonal cleaning, a light brushing with a soft-bristle broom will dislodge dust or pollen. Thanks to our 1.1% absorption rate, stains do not penetrate deeply, making cleaning quick and effective without the need for harsh chemicals or sanding.

Our product features a more natural and matte finish. Like any high-quality outdoor material, a slight color stabilization occurs during the first few months of UV exposure, giving the deck its final, authentic look. Unlike glossy plastics that can look artificial or become brittle, our blend of wood fiber and recycled HDPE ages gracefully, preserving its visual richness while resisting sun-induced cracking.