Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there toxic problems the consumer should be aware of?
There are no toxic chemicals or preservatives involved in the manufacturing of Nexwood.
Nexwood has been designed to look like lumber, what are the main differences?
Nexwood has a higher density than wood; however, certain profiles are engineered to be lighter in bulk weight than actual lumber. Nexwood is resistant to termite and rot, and has low moisture absorption. Thus, Nexwood has a much longer life span than regular lumber.
What are the main differences between Nexwood and the "plastic woods"?
Plastic wood refers to lumber products that are made of 100% plastic. Generally, "plastic woods" are more expensive, more slippery, have shorter span length and experience more problems with expansion and contraction, whereas Nexwood is revolutionized to minimize these problems with a cutting-edge formulation of raw materials.
What are some of the other uses of Nexwood?
Nexwood can be used for flowerbeds, fences, railings, patio covers/overheads, docks, boardwalks, picnic tables, benches, children playground and many other applications.
Does Nexwood comply with building code?
Nexwood was listed with BOCA-Evaluation Service for compliance with the National Building Code. It converts to NES file NER-A74167 (pending), ICBO file No.011117 (pending).
For properties of Nexwood decking, refer to the span chart and Nexwood Test Results.
What reaction will Nexwood have to fire?
Nexwood will burn due to the 60% cellulose content; but, Nexwood has a much higher ignition temperature than wood (Self Ignition Temperature = 450° C / 842° F), and it has a low burning rate (Rate of Burning = 0.8"/min). Based on ASTM E-84 (Flame Spread Rating), Nexwood is in Class B (Class II).
Plastic lumber is known as being slippery. Is Nexwood slippery when wet?
Nexwood has a unique wood-like finish, which increases traction in all directions and meetsthe Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommendation.
Can Nexwood be used for fencing?
Nexwood can be used for fencing, with or without railings. The installation is similar to that of railings; you can use 4x4 post sleeves. Insert wood as a post core, 2x4 as rails, and 5/4 T&G or Fascia Board for fence board. You must consult your local building officials before construction.
What happens to Nexwood when left under water for extended periods of time?
Nexwood absorbs very little water. After a test in which Nexwood was submerged in boiling water for 24 hours, no substantial effect in strength was found. Water absorption of Nexwood is less than 0.8%. Nexwood can be used for docks.
Nexwood does not float in water.
What are Nexwood's standard colors?
Nexwood is available in 3 different colors: Driftwood Gray, Premium Sierra Brown, and Premium Sequoia Red. We recommend you choose Driftwood Gray for areas with high traffic, i.e., commercial docks, since this darker shade will hide stains better.
What are the standard lengths available for Nexwood?
The Nexwood 2x6 and 5/4 T&G are manufactured in lengths of 12', 16' and 20'; Nexwood 2x2, 2x3, 2x4, and C-Channels and E-Channels are manufactured in lengths of 12'; Nexwood 4x4 is manufactured in lengths of 8'; 0.5"x9" Fascia Board is manufactured in lengths of 8' and 12'.
Product availability may vary by store or territory. Please check availability with your local dealer or lumberyard.
Can Nexwood be milled? If so, are special tools required?
Yes, Nexwood profiles can be milled, but it may reduce the strength of the profile.
Can Nexwood be painted or stained? If so, what types of products should be used?
Painting and staining is not recommended for Nexwood; however, if required, use a proper high quality primer and paint only on the brushed surface. Do not use paint or stain on surfaces of high traffic areas.
What will happen if gases or other petroleum products are spilled on Nexwood?
Due to the cellulose content in Nexwood, it will absorb gas or petroleum to a minimal degree on the surface. If washed shortly after the spill, it should not stain. For spills that have been left for a long time, lightly brush with sandpaper or a stiff brush to remove the stain.
What are the differences in storing Nexwood and lumber?
Nexwood should be covered when stored outdoors for long periods of time to keep it clean and presentable for your customers. Each crate of 80 pieces of Nexwood 2x6 or 96 pieces of Nexwood 5/4 T&G is shipped with a Nexwood plastic cover for protection. No more than three crates should be stacked in a column and make sure that the wooden bands securing the units are all aligned.
How long can Nexwood be stored?
Nexwood should be covered and stored indoors. When properly stored, it has a long shelflife. Customers are protected by Nexwood's 20 year limited warranty for 2x6 Nexwood deck boards and 10 year limited warranty for 5/4 T&G Nexwood deck boards. Please visit our website or call us to obtain copies of the warranty.
What kind of glue should I use for Nexwood caps?
We recommend using one of the following brands: Lepage PL400 Bulldog Grip Sub-Floor & Decking Adhesive, OSI PL400Heavy Duty Structural & Sub-Floor Adhesive, or Devcon - Plastic Welder II.
Can putty be used on Nexwood?
Putty can be used to cover small nicks and holes on the Nexwood surface. We recommend you choose a color of weatherproof/exterior putty that most closely matches your Nexwood surface.
Can Nexwood be delivered to a job site and rolled off without damage?
Nexwood may become pocked or dented if rolled off a truck and left to fall to the ground. When packaged in units of 80 the unit weight of the 80 boards is over 2000 pounds. If pushed off from a truck in this state, some of the boards may be damaged. Like wood, cosmetic damage may occur if handled roughly.
Can Nexwood be used for sub-structure?
Nexwood cannot be used for a sub-structure. We recommend using pressure treated lumber for the sub-structure.
How does Nexwood react to cold weather?
Nexwood is designed to perform extremely well in all weather conditions. For expansion and contraction data see the gapping guidelines.
Can scrap Nexwood be taken to a landfill or thrown in the garbage?
Yes, as Nexwood contains no toxic chemicals or preservatives, it is accepted in landfills.
