Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL

What is composite decking?

Wood plastic composite decking is a blend of recycled wood and plastic that would have otherwise ended up in landfill. Today’s composite decking offers exceptional durability, resilience and performance that you can’t get from pure wood. It doesn’t split, chip, warp or rot – perfect for withstanding the elements! Kind to bare feet, it won’t splinter and is slip resistant unlike wet wood. Already popular with homeowners, restaurants, hotels and leisure centres who choose it as a sustainable solution for decking projects.

What is the difference between composite decking and wood?

The high quality composite decking boards that we offer combine the natural appearance and aesthetic appeal of wood with the durability and resilience of plastic. Wood requires continuous maintenance, is exposed to and affected by weather and environmental conditions. Composite decking on the other hand is more robust and offers excellent traction, won’t splinter or warp and doesn’t need sealing or repainting.

Why is composite decking more expensive than treated wood?

Composite decking may be more expensive to manufacture, but it’s a more sustainable solution in the mid to long term. Investing in this material means that you’ll be spared costs associated with the maintenance, repair and replacement of wood decking which is more susceptible to perish, rot, split and warp – so in the long run, you’ll be saving money.

How long will Neowood decking last?

Composite decking is by nature strong and durable. You can expect it to last for many years with minimal upkeep. All Neowood products come with up to 25-Year Limited Warranty for residential applications and 10-years for commercial applications.

Is Neowood decking suitable for use in commercial and residential settings?

Neowood composite decking is fit for both residential and commercial use. We have been a leading distributor of composite decking for over 17 years, supplying private homes and businesses with excellent quality solutions. We have come to understand that some products are better suited to certain environments over others. To help decide which product may be best for your upcoming decking project, please contact a member of our dedicated sales team on +6012-2899798.

What is the difference between your traditional and Co Ex decking ranges?

Our traditional composite deck boards are made from a single mould of wood and plastic composite material, making them a long-lasting alternative to timber decking. Our new generation of decking is our Deluxe Ranges, which is a modern composite material with a tough polymer shell capped to its exterior. This encapsulates the product and provides a defensive barrier to offer improved performance against the elements. This product features all the great benefits of traditional composite decking, with the added advantages of enhanced stain, mold, and fade resistance.

How are Neowood goods delivered?

The majority of orders are delivered on a long wheel based van by a member of our dedicated Neowood delivery team. For larger deliveries, we tend to select a more suitable heavy goods vehicle with a higher weight capacity. Our logistics team always contact customers ahead of delivery to run through the in’s and out’s and we will never just turn up unannounced!

PRICING & PURCHASING

What is the delivery time for my order?

We stock our entire product range, so your lead time is governed by the delivery option you choose: either a 3-5 working day window on our “Express Delivery Service”, or a 7-10 working day window on our “Economy Delivery Service”.

Where can I purchase Neowood products?

When buying Neowood items, you deal with Neowood directly: either buy online or contact a member of our knowledgeable sales team on +6012-2899798. By self-distributing our products, we have much better control over the experience that our customers received.

How much does Neo Timber decking cost?

As with many things in life, you get what you pay for. Initially, composite decking does cost more board-for-board when compared with traditional wooden decking, however – the payoff you get over time in decreased maintenance costs and increased leisure time provides compelling value. For up-to-date product prices, please check out our online store.

INSTALLATION

Do I have to use Neowood subframe solutions with my Neowood composite deck boards?

Although we recommend using our subframe options in conjunction with our boards, it is not a necessity. Customers can also opt for a timber, plastic or steel subframe and as long as the principles outlined in our installation guide are followed, our warranty terms will still apply.

How do you fix Neowood trims?

The primary fixing method for our trims is screwing. The trims can be screwed to either the boards or to the supporting framework of your decking area. It is advised that you pre-drill and countersink the trims prior to screwing them in order to avoid cracking the composite material. A screw with a similar coloured head is advised for a more discrete finish and we recommend our Neowood coloured trim screws. An adhesive can also be used as a secondary fixing solution. See the fixing our composite edging section of our installation guide for more assistance on best practices.

Can composite deck boards be cut/sawn like traditional wood?

Yes – composite decking can be cut, drilled, and fastened just like traditional wood. You can make simple cross cuts in composite decking the same way you would cut any soft pine – a power circular saw will work fine. A power miter saw can provide very accurate, straight cuts, and a table saw with support extensions can make all types of cutting easier. Check out our cutting composite decking how-to video for more information.

Can Neowood deck boards be placed over a solid surface?

Neowood decking can only be installed over a solid surface when using a joist network and we recommend using our composite joists which have been designed specifically for this purpose. Please see our installation guide for more information and how to install using our concealed FastClip system. Using our composite subframe solution, while recommended, is not a necessary requirement and it is possible to install our boards onto alternative subframe materials, such as timber or metal.

Can Neowood deck boards be glued?

Glue cannot be used as a primary fastener. Please see our online installation guide for more information and how to install using our recommended concealed FastClip system.

Can I use a non-recommended fastener to install Neowood decking?

Neowood does not endorse the use of any non-recommended fasteners. If any condition occurs which is attributable to the use of a non-recommended fasteners, such conditions would not be covered under the Neowood Limited Warranty. Please see our online installation guide for more information and how to install using our recommended concealed FastClip system.

TECHNICAL

Are Neowood deck boards reversible?

Every one of our composite deck boards comes with a fully reversible finish. This allows you to choose between an embossed, textured woodgrain finish and a sleek grooved finish.

Does Neowood composite material expand and contract?

Like all wood-plastic composite materials, our decking will expand and contract in varying temperatures. The rate of expansion and contraction is dictated by the outside environment – primarily the temperature. This must be taken into account ahead of installation as this has a bearing on the “end-to-end” spacing required between boards. For more information on this aspect, please consult the elements to consider section of the online installation guide.

Are Neowood deck boards resistant to staining?

Our traditional composite deck boards (Lite, Bamboo Series) are composed of wood fibres and recycled plastic and are uncapped, meaning they are not fully resistant to spot stains. If spillage or stain occurs, we recommend acting immediately – treating the affected area and following the steps in our care guide. Our Co-Ex composite deck boards (Deluxe Series) are wrapped in a polymer shell that forms a protective barrier around the core of the product. This provides excellent stain resistance and an easy-clean surface.

Are Neowood composite deck boards non-slip?

Neowood deck boards are engineered with safety in mind and we consistently try to better the slip-resistance of our composite products. The slip resistance of Neowood deck boards varies depending on the decking type and material finish that you opt for. For more information, please contact a member our dedicated sales team on +6012-2899798.

What standards does your composite decking meet?

We are proud that our products comply with CE, ISO-9001, ISO-14001, REACH, Intertek Green Leaf Mark and WWF LCMP Silver standards. This means that all materials are sourced from responsible producers and that our products are manufactured to the highest possible quality.

What materials are used to manufacture Neowood composite decking?

Neowood decking is made from 95% recycled materials, including reclaimed wood and sawdust as well as recycled plastic. The exact material composition is 60% wood fibre, 30% recycled HDPE and 10% chemical additives.

How heavy is Neowood composite decking when compared with wood?

Neowood composite decking boards are typically between 50-70% heavier than comparable lumber sections.

Will Neowood products change colour or fade when installed outdoors?

All of our composite decking solutions are more fade-resistant than traditional wooden decking. However, how well your deck endures mother nature depends upon what type of Neowood decking you have. Our Lite, Essential and Classic traditional composite decking will lighten-up in colour-tone, achieving their weathered colour after a period of up to 6 months. The level of fade hereafter will be minimal once the boards have reached this colour tone. Our Deluxe Series Co-Ex composite decking has protective shell technology which provides far superior fade and stain resistance, and in turn will not fade whatsoever.

Does Neowood composite decking get hotter than wooden decking when under the sun?

In extensive studies, it has been found that the colour of the decking board, regardless if it’s made of wood-plastic composite or wood, is the most significant factor in the heat retention of the board. Naturally, the darker colour tones will warm up quicker than our lighter coloured boards. In these studies, pressure-treated wood stained the same colour was hotter in the same test conditions.

AFTER CARE

How do I clean/ maintain Neowood composite decking?

Our entire range of composite materials are very easy to maintain. A routine clean consists of using soap, warm water and a soft-bristled brush and for a deeper clean, a jet wash can be used on your deck. We find that a twice-yearly clean is usually enough to keep your decking project looking excellent throughout the year. The weather-resistant nature of our products means that you shall never need to paint, stain or seal the boards. For more information on cleaning and care tips, please visit our care guide.

Can I use a pressure washer on my Neowood composite decking?

While our composite deck boards are low-maintenance, we recommend a general clean every 3-6 months to ensure your boards continue to look excellent all year round. Using a pressure washer (maximum 3100 psi) is an effective way of cleaning any surface dirt and debris from the deck boards. Using a fan attachment on the pressure washer and applying the spray a minimum of 300mm from the surface of the boards will ensure this process doesn’t damage the boards

Can I paint or stain my Neowood deck boards?

We strongly advise that customers avoid painting or staining any Neowood composite products. Our products are designed to be a low-maintenance alternative to timber decking and traditional staining or painting solutions that are usually used on traditional timber decking will not bond with our products. The colour consistency of our boards is such that it will stay largely consistent throughout their lifespan.

Can Neowood deck boards be sanded?

We do not advise that you sand our Co-Ex composite deck boards (Deluxe Series). The protective polymer shell of the product will be damaged beyond repair if you are to do so and you shall void the product’s warranty. We do however recommend lightly sanding our traditional composite decking (Lite, Bamboo Series) in order to remove stubborn, deep-set stains. Apply a 60-grit sandpaper to the direction of the grain of the board, lightly applying pressure in the affected area. As a result of the sanding, the affected area will initially appear a lighter colour tone. Rest assured this will blend-in with the colouration of the board over time as the board is exposed to UV rays.

LAMINATE FLOORING

What are the differences between laminate flooring and engineered wood flooring?

Laminate flooring is synthetic flooring produced by combining multi-layer of resin and fiberboard as it’s core material. The photographic layer is what gives the laminate floor the appearance of close resemblance to wood flooring.

Unlike laminate flooring, engineered wood flooring is manufactured from real wood. It normally has several plywood layers.
In terms of price, engineered wood flooring is more expensive than laminate flooring due to higher material costs. Engineered wood flooring also provides better resale value on property.

Where can I install laminate flooring?

As laminate flooring is extremely versatile and durable, it can be installed literally any room in the house.

It is commonly installed in living room, bedroom, hallway, stairs, dining room, kitchen and commercial areas like retail shops, restaurant and gym.

Laminate flooring with special features and installation procedures can also be installed at high moisture areas like laundry area. But do remember to avoid standing water on the floor for a long period of time.

Laminate flooring can also be installed over existing floor or sub-floor like concrete and wood surfaces.

What is floating floor?

Floating floor is never a type of floor. Instead, it refers to the method of floor installation. The word floating means floor boards are not fastened to the sub-floor with glue or nail.

It is also sometimes called glue-less or click-lock floor. Laminate flooring is floating floor as floor boards are joined together using interlocking system.

How to clean laminate flooring?

Cleaning laminate flooring is easy. Use only soft brush or broom while sweeping the floor. If you wish to vacuum the floor, make sure to remove attachment like beater bar. Any hard and stiff tools may potentially scratch your floor.

You may damp mop the floor and dry the surface with cloth. Do not use excessive water while mopping the floor. Avoid using strong cleaning agent like soap-based detergent while mopping your floor.

Never use scouring pads or steel wool while cleaning. Wax, polish and steam cleaning are not suitable to be use on laminate flooring as this could lead to severe damaging.

What does AC rating of laminate flooring means?

AC rating is measurement of hardness standardized by Association of European Producers of Laminate Flooring (ELPF). It measures rate of resistance towards abrasions, impact, stains and cigarette burns.

Laminate flooring with highest AC rating is able to sustain high traffic commercial application whilst laminate flooring with lowest AC rating is only for light usage.

AC 5 – Very durable. Best for heavy commercial usage and areas with high foot traffic including crowded areas and department stores.

AC 4 – Durable and perform well under slightly busy commercial areas like retail shops, restaurants and offices.

AC 3 – Suitable for general residential and light commercial application such as cafe and individual office room.

AC 2 – Suitable for common areas of residential application. Not recommended for commercial usage.

AC 1 – Recommend only for areas with low foot traffic like guest rooms or bed rooms.

Does laminate flooring able to sustain wheelchair usage?

Yes but do be careful of any sharp debris that stick on the wheel and cause scratches to the floor surface.

Can I install laminate flooring in damp area?

We do not recommend laminate flooring when it comes to area that is consistently exposed to high level of moisture. Water will seeps in and cause the core of laminate pieces to swell or warp. Laminate flooring is not waterproof eventually moisture will cause severe damage to it. Unless it is well protected from moisture by applying silicon on each joints and cracks otherwise laminate flooring is not recommended for damp area.

Is laminate flooring suitable for people with allergies?

Yes, in fact laminate flooring is considered hypoallergenic. It does not trap dust, mites or allergen easily which make it suitable for people suffer from dust allergies and even asthma.

VINYL FLOORING

What are the differences between vinyl flooring and laminate flooring?

Both vinyl flooring and laminate flooring are synthetic floor products. Laminate flooring uses fiberboard as it’s core material whist vinyl flooring does not contain any wood derivative material in it.

Due to this matter, laminate flooring without waterproof feature is susceptible to water damage as the fiberboard core tends to swell when contacted with water. Vinyl flooring however is made of 100% PVC and does not has any problems caused by wood derivatives.

Vinyl flooring is waterproof, more flexible and resilient than laminate flooring. It can be installed in several methods like glue-down, loose lay and click-lock. Laminate flooring normally installed by using floating system.

Where can I install vinyl flooring?

Being resilient and versatile, vinyl flooring is suitable for various setting and application.

As vinyl flooring is waterproof, it became a popular choice for kitchen flooring. Depends on the installation method, some glue-down vinyl flooring are less favorable to wet areas as moisture may weaken the adhesive bond of glue.

Vinyl flooring is also suitable to be installed at living room, dining room, bedroom, retail shops, restaurants, cafes, offices and fitness centers.

It can be installed over existing flooring like concrete and hardwood floor but not on carpet or chip board floor.

Will color of vinyl flooring faded?

Depends on the area where vinyl flooring is installed. Color of vinyl flooring normally does not change or fade off easily. Unless it is prolong exposed to sunlight, the color will be slightly faded.

Avoid direct UV contact by closing the curtains, drapes or blinds to protect your vinyl flooring.

Will vinyl planks from the same box look alike?

Most manufacturers do not produce identical vinyl planks in the same box to avoid looking fake where every plank looks exactly the same.

Vinyl flooring with arrangement of various plank patterns is the key to make flooring looks natural.

Can I mop or walk on vinyl flooring immediately after installation?

For better curing of adhesive, it is not recommended to mop or walk on vinyl flooring right after installation. Instead, allow at least 24 hours for adhesive to set completely.

To prevent damages caused by moisture on any uncured adhesive, wait for 3 to 5 days after installation before thoroughly mop the floor.

How to decide the quantity of vinyl flooring needed for my house?

Send us the floor measurement of your house and receive a quotation from us for free!Yes but do be careful of any sharp debris that stick on the wheel and cause scratches to the floor surface.

How long can vinyl flooring last averagely?

Vinyl flooring generally has a lifetime of 5 to 30 years. Other factors affect on it’s lifespan include quality of vinyl flooring, maintenance and care of user. Proper maintenance and care can help extend vinyl flooring lifespan.

Can I install vinyl flooring by my own?

Vinyl flooring is known for it’s diy-user friendly installation. However, we do not recommend you to install vinyl flooring yourself if you do not have any experience prior as the outcome may be undesirable. Engage with a professional floor installer will guarantee a satisfying outcome.

What type of vinyl flooring will I find in the store?

We offer a wide range of vinyl flooring products from residential to commercial or industrial application including flooring with special features like anti-slip and high durability.

What other flooring products and services available in store?

Besides our bestseller – SPC flooring and vinyl flooring, we sell and install laminate flooring.

Is vinyl flooring suitable for my home?

If you are looking for easy to clean flooring with high durability and provide a certain level of comfortness when walking, resilient vinyl flooring is your best solution. It comes with extensive range of styles and designs to meet your personal interior style.

OUTDOOR FLOORING

What is WPC decking?

WPC stands for Wood Plastic Composite. It is a environmental friendly outdoor decking manufactured using recycled plastic, sawdust and wood fibers as raw material.

It is rather common to be called WPC decking or composite decking.

What are the differences between WPC decking and wood decking?

Even though WPC decking is artificial product, it is a greener option compared to wood decking as it uses recycled materials.

WPC decking is robust, waterproof, anti-termite and weather resistant without fading off easily. WPC decking do not crack or splinter like wood decking which make it last longer.

Unlike wood decking, WPC decking is easier to clean and maintain without having to sand, varnish and tint.

How to clean and maintain WPC decking?

Cleaning can be done by sweeping and mopping regularly. If pressure washer is used, make sure not to direct nozzle too close to the surface. Pressure used should set below 1500 psi to prevent deck boards being damaged by high pressure.

Unclog leaves, debris and dust between the gap of deck boards by using spatula or plastic gardening tools that will not scratch or damage the surface. Avoid using metal tools like metal rake and shovel.

Place awning or screen to further protect your decking from direct UV lights.

Frequently Asked Questions