Plastics processors have taken many approaches to replacing wood in building and construction-related applications, but last week's International Builders Show 2010 (Jan. 19-21) at the Las Vegas Convention Center revealed there are still more wood-replacement avenues to wander.

For example, extrusion processor United Plastics Corp. of Mt. Airy, NC, extended its range of brand-name products with the launch at IBS of ProFekt, a recyclable, realistic-wood extruded sheet designed to be used to cover old wooden deck and patio surfaces. ProFekt (www.ProFektDecks.com) installs directly onto deck and patio surfaces to eliminate direct air and water contact with the surface and give old decks a 'new' look without replacing the lumber. 

The extruded rolls of ProFekt come in rolls sized 21.5" wide x 12' long, and 5.5" wide by 40' long planks. ProFekt can be cut with a simple razor knife to the desired measurements, and then rolled over the old wooden surface using a vinyl adhesive and finishing nails at the top and bottom to hold it in place.

"Installing ProFekt will double and even triple the life of decks and patios with minimal maintenance for years," said Jack Nagy Sr., VP of sales and marketing for United Plastics Corp.

Another wood-replacement product was introduced by Royal Outdoor Products (www.novationdeck.com) with its new Novation decking, which has the look of real wood planks. The company extrudes the planks from cellular PVC that stands up to chairs, spilled drinks, and harsh weather. Unlike composite decking that contains wood, Novation won't absorb moisture.