The most affordable option (applicable to free draining, relatively dry conditions only) is to use treated softwood. Although softwood substructure will become slimy/moldy easily over time, this is normally acceptable as it is not seen. We can also provide a composite substructure profile which is useful in wet conditions or areas with low air circulation. In particularly damp conditions where the deck is over 1 meter off the ground, we recommend the use of galvanized steel box section beams / hard wood structure or other stronger structure. 

No. Please do not use any glue to fasten or seal between Forestar boards. This application will damage the performance of plank, such as its drainage system and natural expansion.

Of course. Forestar product does not absorb water, which makes it an ideal solution for area near water. Also, it can be used in marine environments since salt has no effect on it. Additionally, burring-free is a big plus for Forestar product, which can protect your bare foot.

Yes. Almost everything will fade over time when exposed to sunlight and other weather conditions. Forestar product is added high quality UV-inhibiting pigments and made from hardwood fibers in order to minimize the fading (softwood fades far more than hardwood), but there will still be some visible fade over first few months(the speed and degree of this fading depend on actual weather conditions) giving a more textured appearance. As with any timber based product, some fade will occur but the plastic content holds its colour. Any initial colour difference between boards is due to the natural colour variance in the wood fibers and once weathered, the boards will all be similar colour tone.

If Forestar product has been installed as mentioned in the Installation and Maintenance Guide, most of melt off will flow away rather than freeze. However, we recommend to use rock salt or calcium chloride for ice or snow removal. These may only leave white residue, but it can be cleaned easily by mild soap or rinsing with water.

Forestar product can adapt to various weather conditions. It will shrink in hot and expand in cold when installed. We recommend to put boards in the working spot 48 hrs before installation so as to make it’s adaptation to the weather.