How to Choose Fiberon Decking Using Physical Samples

Order Your Fiberon Decking Samples

The first step in a successful material selection process is to acquire physical samples of the Fiberon decking lines and colors you are considering. Online images can be misleading due to screen calibration, ambient light during photography, and the inability to convey tactile qualities. A sample allows you to experience the actual product.

When requesting samples, specify the exact Fiberon line (Concordia, Sanctuary, Good Life) and color names that interest you. Lumber Plus offers sample kits to help you compare options directly. While a single small piece gives a basic idea, a larger sample or multiple pieces can better represent the material's appearance over a wider area.

Consider ordering samples of complementary materials as well, such as siding, trim, or railing components, if you plan to integrate them. This allows for a holistic evaluation of the finished aesthetic.

Evaluate Samples in Different Lighting Conditions

Lighting is perhaps the most significant factor influencing how a decking color appears. A Fiberon sample that looks perfect indoors under artificial light might appear entirely different outdoors in direct sunlight, shade, or at various times of day. This is particularly true for multi-tonal boards like those in the Fiberon Concordia line, where subtle color variations become more prominent.

Take your samples outside to the actual project site. Observe them under bright midday sun, in partial shade, and during overcast conditions. Notice how the colors shift and how the surface texture reflects or absorbs light. For decks that will be used in the evening, observe samples under any planned outdoor lighting to see how they respond.

This step helps you understand the dynamic appearance of the decking throughout the day and in different weather, preventing surprises after installation.

Consider Adjacent Finishes and Materials

A deck rarely stands in isolation. It connects to your home's exterior, landscaping, and other outdoor features. The color and texture of your Fiberon decking should harmonize with these existing or planned elements.

Place your Fiberon samples next to your home's siding, trim, window frames, and any hardscaping like pavers or stone. If you plan to incorporate outdoor furniture, cushions, or planters, consider how the decking samples interact with their colors and styles. For example, a warm Chestnut from the Sanctuary line might complement a brick façade, while a cool Graphite from Concordia could enhance a modern stucco finish.

This comparison helps ensure a cohesive design. What looks good on its own might clash when integrated into the broader environment.

Understand Fiberon Product Labels and Specifications

Each Fiberon sample typically comes with a label or accompanying documentation. These details are critical for understanding the product's characteristics beyond its visual appeal. Pay close attention to the following:

Product Line: Is it Concordia, Sanctuary, or Good Life? Concordia, for example, features four-sided capping and deeper multi-tonal blends, while Good Life has a scalloped profile.

Color Name: Ensure the sample matches the color you intend to order. Screen representations can vary, so the physical sample confirms the exact shade.

Profile (Grooved/Square Edge): Fiberon offers both grooved-edge boards for hidden fasteners and square-edge boards for face fastening and picture framing. Confirm which profile your sample represents, as this impacts installation and final appearance.

Understand the specific warranty for the sample you are evaluating.

Material Composition: Fiberon is a capped wood-plastic composite, with high recycled content. Understanding the material helps set expectations for maintenance and performance.

These specifications are not just technical details; they inform the long-term suitability and ownership experience of your chosen decking.

A Sample Evaluation Scenario: Choosing for a Coastal Home

Consider a hypothetical project: a homeowner in a coastal area wants to replace an existing wood deck with Fiberon composite decking. They are looking for a durable, low-maintenance option that resists fading from sun exposure and complements the light, airy aesthetic of their home.

Initial Considerations: The homeowner is drawn to the 'Beach House' color from the Fiberon Good Life line and the 'Graphite' color from the Concordia line, both offering a contemporary, lighter feel.

Sample Acquisition: They request physical samples of both 'Beach House' (Good Life) and 'Graphite' (Concordia). They also gather samples of their home's white trim and a planned light gray outdoor tile for a patio area.

On-Site Evaluation - Morning: In the morning sun, the 'Beach House' sample appears slightly warmer than expected, with subtle beige undertones. The 'Graphite' sample shows its multi-tonal depth, with lighter gray streaks becoming more apparent, complementing the white trim and light gray tile well.

On-Site Evaluation - Afternoon: As the sun shifts, the 'Beach House' color maintains its warmth, but the 'Graphite' sample, in direct afternoon sun, reveals a slight blueish cast in some areas. This is a crucial observation, as the homeowner prefers a neutral gray.

Shaded Area Evaluation: In the shaded areas of the deck, 'Beach House' appears slightly muted but still inviting. 'Graphite' maintains its sophistication, with the deeper tones becoming more prominent, offering a strong contrast against the white trim.

Adjacent Materials Check: Placing both samples against the home's white siding, the 'Graphite' provides a crisp, modern contrast. The 'Beach House' blends more subtly, creating a softer transition.

Decision: After observing the samples throughout the day and with adjacent materials, the homeowner decides against 'Graphite' due to the unexpected blue undertone in direct sun. They lean towards 'Beach House' for its consistent warmth and softer integration with their home's existing elements, despite its entry-level positioning, recognizing its consistent appearance in their specific lighting conditions.

Before you order

• Order physical Fiberon samples of your top choices.
• Observe samples at the project site during different times of day.
• Check samples in direct sunlight, partial shade, and overcast conditions.
• Place samples next to existing or planned adjacent materials (siding, trim, landscaping).
• Review product labels for line, color, profile, and warranty details.
• Consider the overall aesthetic harmony with your home's exterior.
• Confirm the chosen line's features (e.g., capping, grain) meet your expectations.

Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.

Questions to help you decide

Keep planning your project