New generation of Latitudes Composite Decking features great looks, enhanced durability

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., December 9, 2011 – Universal Consumer Products, makers of Latitudes Composite Decking, is set to unveil its next generation of co-extruded composite decking under the Latitudes Capricorn® and Captiva™ brand names. The new composite decking will be available in the spring of 2012 and can be seen in the Latitudes booth (W429) during the International Builders’ Show in Orlando, beginning February 8.

The new generation of Latitudes has an innovative cap stock for a richer look and outstanding performance. The new synthetic cap stock deck boards feature an improved scratch-resistant surface that is also extremely resilient to stains and fading. Backed by an all-new 25-year stain and fade warranty, it offers a more natural-looking surface, realistic grain pattern and is available in two Capricorn tropical colors, Koa and Arabica, and three Captiva™ colors, gray, cedar and walnut. Fortified with the same proven Strandex^® technology, new Latitudes co-extruded composite decking is the perfect balance of beauty, strength and ultra-low maintenance performance.

New Capricorn and Captiva decking features:
• 12', 16' and 20' slotted board lengths
• 16' solid length for stair and trim boards
• Slotted edges encapsulated on one side with a stain, fade and scratch resistant cap stock
• Solid edge boards capped on three sides
• Advanced co-extrusion technology for ultra-low maintenance
• Durable, stain-and fade-resistant exterior finish

“New Latitudes co-extruded deck boards are more durable and better looking than composite decking of the past. The new cap stock we’ve employed is highly durable and proven in many exterior applications. Builders, DIYers and homeowners will appreciate its great looks and exceptional performance,” said Geoffrey Meyer, sales manager for Universal Consumer Products.

Available in the spring, Latitudes new co-extruded composite decking will be showcased at the 2012 International Builders’ Show in Orlando (Latitudes booth W429).

Latitudes Composite decking, railing and accessory products are available through an established network of building material retailers in the United States and Canada. Visit LatitudesDeck.com for complete information.

About Latitudes
Latitudes features composite decking, railing and deck accessory products that inspire builders and homeowners to create a unique outdoor living area that captures personal style and complements a home’s architecture.

Latitudes is a popular, time-tested brand known for innovative products and has an impeccable reputation for quality and performance.

What makes Latitudes composite decking and railing special is the Strandex^® technology it employs on the interior of the product. Strandex technology is much like individual strands that make a rope stronger, it offers superior protection against UV degradation and water absorption because every “strand” of wood fiber is encased in high-density polyethylene. You can be assured you’re getting the highest quality and strongest composite product available.

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.

Universal’s subsidiaries also provide framing services for the site-built market and forming products for concrete construction. The company was founded in 1955 and   is headquartered in Grand Rapids, Mich., with facilities throughout North America. To learn more about Latitudes composite decking, as well as other Latitudes composite decking products, call 877-463-8379, e-mail latitudes@ufpi.com or visit www.latitudesdeck.com. For more information about Universal Forest Products, visit www.ufpi.com.