High-Quality Decorating Outdoor Patio Ideas Factories & Products

Like all thermoplastic-matrix composites, WPC exhibits predictable dimensional movement along its longitudinal axis, characterized by a thermal expansion coefficient (α) of approximately 3.5 × 10^-5 mm/mm/°C. Forestar engineered systems account for this via calibrated clip-retention allowances and end-to-end expansion spacing tables calibrated against ambient installation temperatures. Using our engineered hidden POM or stainless steel clips allows longitudinal movement without face-fastener shear stress, preserving deck alignment across a -30°C to +65°C operating envelope.

First-generation composites are homogeneous single-barrel extrusions leaving wood fibers exposed to ambient humidity, UV radiation, and food-oil spills. In contrast, Forestar's TerraShield co-extrusion technology fuses an impenetrable 360-degree, polymer-rich outer shield over an internal recycled core matrix. This outer casing integrates UV blockers, antioxidants, and scratch inhibitors, preventing deep stain absorption and UV degradation while keeping water absorption below 0.08%.

For standard residential light-foot applications, a maximum center-to-center joist spacing of 400mm (16 inches) perpendicular to the board is specified. In high-traffic commercial environments, public pedestrian promenades, or when laying boards at a 45-degree angle, joist spacing must be tightened to 300mm (12 inches) on center. Sub-structures may utilize galvanized steel, structural aluminum systems, or pressure-treated timber joists with adequate ventilation and drainage slope.

Yes. Forestar runs an in-house tooling and CNC machining facility that develops custom profile dies and embossing rollers. Clients can order custom cross-sectional profiles, specify internal wall thicknesses for weight and cost targets, and match local architectural species (e.g., Tasmanian Oak, Siberian Larch, Nordic Ash) with a minimum production volume threshold of 1x40ft HQ container.

Forestar's EclipseGrain series is chemically inert to both hyper-saline maritime atmospheres and concentrated pool water treated with sodium hypochlorite or salt-chlorine generators. In salt-fog chamber testing (ASTM B117, 3000 hours), our composite profiles showed zero surface pitting, blistering, or structural loss. The embossed woodgrain texture achieves an R11 / P4 pendulum slip-resistance rating when wet, ensuring safe footing for poolside and marina installations.