Frequently Asked Questions

We utilize a mineral additive to make our plastic lumber stronger and to decrease the expansion/contraction common to all plastic lumber. Our plastic lumber is a mineral filled composite formula meaning that we mix high-density polyethylene with any of a number of available minerals. Our proprietary formula enables us to offer a plastic lumber product that will last a lifetime yet outperform many of its competitors on the market today.

We are one of only a few manufacturers who utilize mineral to enhance the properties of plastic lumber.

Stains or paint will not penetrate the surface of our material and will flake or peel if applied to our mineral filled composite plastic lumber. Our product is engineered to be low-maintenance and therefore it is sold with the idea that it will never need to be painted or stained.

Our plastic lumber stands out as a graffiti-proof product as neither paint nor stain will permanently adhere to our product.

Our mineral filled composite plastic lumber will last forever as evidenced by our warranty which protects against rotting, cracking, splitting and peeling for a minimum of 50 years. BearBoard comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Because we do not incorporate fibrous materials into our product, there is virtually nothing to break down.

Yes, like all alternative wood materials on the market today, our mineral-filled composite plastic lumber expands in the heat and contracts in the cold on the butt ends of the boards. There is no noticeable movement width-wise in our boards.

One of the attributes of utilizing a mineral in our formula is the minimizing of the thermal expansion rate and compares very favorably to 100% HDPE products on the market today.

There is no need to pre-drill any pilot holes when working with BearBoard.

BearBoard cannot be used as a substitute for wood in structural applications. BearBoard CAN be used, if properly supported, as a substructure in some applications such as decking directly over an existing concrete patio. As always, be sure to check with your local building codes.

Yes, because of our closed molecular formula that contains no organic material, mold and mildew have no place to hide and no source of nutrition. If in the rare situations were enough dirt and grime are allowed to form on BearBoard allowing mold or mildew to form on the dirt and grim, a quick cleaning with a pressure washer will remove ALL of the dirt, grime, mold and mildew instantly.

BearBoard is insect and termite proof. The closed molecular formula that contains no organic material provides no nutrition source for insects keeping it free of infestation.

No, BearBoard does not contain wood or any organic material that causes decay or fading like wood based materials.

No, the warranty becomes void if BearBoard comes in contact with petroleum based products. Safety standards and most building codes require that alternative material be used in these areas. Refer to your local building codes for guidelines in what materials to use in these applications.

Because of our closed molecular formula that contains no organic material almost nothing can adhere BearBoard making it resilient to stains.

Yes, as with most other synthetic products, given the right conditions, BearBoard does come with the potential for the build-up of static electricity. We use static eliminators in our manufacturing process which dissipates the built-up charge in the extrusion process. However, just like with carpet, the potential remains for further build-up of static electricity. We have found that over time static electricity dissipates. Hosing down your deck with a combination of Simple Green cleaner and water will also help dissipate static electricity.