Latitudes® broadens composite deck offering with deck stones

Add creativity and a custom deck appearance with deck stones

– Universal Consumer Products, a subsidiary of Universal Forest Products, Inc., and maker of Latitudes Composite Decking and Railing, announces the addition of Latitudes deck stones to its Spring 2010 lineup.

A unique complement to composite decking, Latitudes deck stones allow builders and designers to add creativity and a custom appearance to any deck project. Deck stones are a stylish deck add-on and a perfect alternative for composite decking when deck surface transitions are desired. Latitudes deck stones can be used in virtually any area on the deck and are well suited for outdoor kitchens, grilling areas and raised fire pits.

Deck stones can be installed on new or existing conventional wood framed decks and are capable of supporting typical building loads. The high-strength fiberglass substrate frame attaches easily to 16" on-center joists with hidden fasteners. Available in durable 16-inch-square Smoke natural slate or Riverstone granite tiles, deck stones are interlocking and self-draining and do not require mortar.

“Our new deck stones present a ‘wow factor’ because they add a highly durable and unique design element to any deck and outdoor living area," said Dick Gauthier, VP of Marketing for Universal Forest Products. “They are an eye-catching complement to our Latitudes Composite Decking line and a good fit for many other types of wood framed decks as well. Contractors will enjoy working with them, as the system is so easy to install.”

Latitudes Deck stones are available per piece or per pallet (100 ct.), and can be shipped direct to the job site or building material dealer using the Latitudes Xpress ship program.

Universal Forest Products, Inc. is a holding company that provides capital, management and administrative resources to subsidiaries that design, manufacture and market wood and wood-alternative products for DIY/retail home centers and other retailers, structural lumber products for the manufactured housing industry, engineered wood components for the site-built construction market, and specialty wood packaging and components for various industries. The Company's consumer products subsidiary offers a large portfolio of outdoor living products, including wood composite decking, decorative balusters, post caps and plastic lattice, and its garden group offers an array of products, such as trellises and arches, to retailers nationwide.