Landscape architects and engineers are faced with multiple options when it comes to selecting the best material for their design projects.
Today, we’re going to take a look at TAMKO’s line of composite decking, called Envision.
Generally speaking, homeowners and deck builders, as well as some landscape architects, are familiar with Evergrain decking. Evergrain decking is one of four products under the TAMKO Envision decking products line we’ll discuss below.
The most important consideration when considering a decking product such as Envision is: residential vs. commercial. What type of project is the product primarily designed and produced for?
With that in mind, we’ve put together a detailed comparison between the Envision line of composite decking from TAMKO and PermaTrak concrete boardwalk system. Let’s go!
TAMKO has been a manufacturer of building products since 1944, starting with a roofing shingle product. Based in Joplin, MO, TAMKO launched the Envision line of composite decking in 1999. Envision decking uses compression molding to create a realistic wood grain surface and, like other brands, is made of recycled plastic.
TAMKO’s Envision line features four products:
Each product is compression molded; the deck boards are 1" thick by 6" lay length (direction of travel) and come in lengths of 12, 16, and 20 feet. The Envision website promotes their products as having “TRUE” beauty, which stands for:
Now, let’s look at each product in more detail.
EverGrain Composite Lumber
EverGrain Composite Lumber is TAMKO’s most economical solution for composite decking. Currently, it is available in five colors (Cape Cod Grey, Cedar, Redwood, Weathered Wood, and Forest Green), is compression molded and features deep, realistic wood grain textures.
Envision Expression
Envision Expression is a mid-grade composite decking solution. It is currently available in four colors (Canyon Ridge, Caribou Brown, Harbor Grey, and Woodland Bark). Like EverGrain Composite Lumber, it is compression molded; however, this product has been taken a step further in that the outer layer and core board are bonded for more durability.
Envision Inspiration
Envision Inspiration is another mid-grade option. The biggest difference in this line is that it uses two colors of ink to create a more natural wood grain look. The decking is currently available in three colors (Barnwood Plank, Tangled Twine, and Weathered Wicker.
Envision Distinction
Envision Distinction is the luxury version of TAMKO’s composite decking. Four different ink colors are used on the boards to create a look that is very similar to natural wood. Decking is currently available in four colors (Spiced Teak, Shaded Auburn, Rustic Walnut, and Greywood).
Warranty
All TAMKO composite decking comes with a 25-year limited warranty against things like “excessive degradation,” splitting, splintering, checking, or termite damage. Within the first five years, TAMKO will replace decking at its full value; however, the replacement will be pro-rated during the last 20 years of the warranty period. The warranty also includes protection for stain resistance, but only if the stain is tended to in accordance with the warranty.
The warranty does not cover surface wear, scratches, “minor degradation,” or color variation. Reviews say that the warranty claims can take months, if not years, to process.
Landscape architects and engineers who are looking for a maintenance-free product will find that PermaTrak offers a 50-75 year design life. With over 100 concrete boardwalk installationsin the US and Canada, PermaTrak is most often specified on publicly funded projects.
Common PermaTrak applications include heavily used trail systems, pedestrian bridges under 45' spans, boardwalks with heavier loading requirements (10,000 lb. vehicle, ambulance, maintenance truck, etc.), and walkways located in harsh environments (coastal, extreme heat/humidity, floodplains, etc.).
PermaTrak Advantages (Pros)
PermaTrak Disadvantages (Cons)
Envision Disadvantages (Cons)
Making the right choice between Envision composite decking and PermaTrak depends on the project type (residential or commercial), owner/client needs, budget, timeline, and many other factors.
We hope this comparison between Envision Composite Decking and PermaTrak has been helpful as you research your decking product options.
Let us know about your experience in the comments below!
*Photo credits:
2nd photo: (outdoor rediential decking) Envision website
4th photo: (up close Envision decking texture) Envision website