Frequently Asked Questions

 

Who is the Macx?

Where are you located?

Do you sell retail?

Do you deliver locally?

Can I pick up from your office?

Can you ship Procell outside the United States?

How can I place an order?

I am a dealer/ distributor in Florida.  Can I buy Products from You?

 

Procell FAQ's 

Who is Procell

Is this new technology?

What makes Procell different from other decking material

    Composition

        Why use PVC? 

        What is flax?  Why is it used?

Installation

    Special installation of rim joist cover?

Warranty

What are the dimensions of the Procell products?

What colors does Procell make?

Does the product color fade over time?

Why doesn't Procell offer weathered samples?

Does the color vary by run number?

Does the product mold?

Is Procell Flammable?

Where can I find technical specifications about Procell?

Do you have Procell decking products in inventory?

What sizes and colors do you stock?

 

Moisture Shield FAQ's

What is MoistureShield®?
How is MoistureShield® manufactured?
Does MoistureShield® contain any preservative treatments?
How long has the product been in use?
How does the composite MoistureShield® is made from stand up against termites?
What is the warranty on MoistureShield®?
Does MoistureShield® come in different styles and colors?
Will MoistureShield® rot, splinter, or decay like wood?
Does MoistureShield® require water sealing or staining?
Can MoistureShield® withstand incidental salt-water contact or spray?
What type of fasteners should you use with MoistureShield®?
What type of tools are required?
Are installation instructions available?
When and how do I clean MoistureShield®?
Is polyethylene plastic toxic?
How is MoistureShield® rated?
Where has MoistureShield® been installed?

 

    

 

Answers

 

Who is the Macx?

You can find about our company by visiting the About Us page.

 

Where are you located?

We are located in Ft. Myers, FL. near Southwest International Airport.  Visit Contact Us for further information.

 

Do you sell retail?

We do not sell retail.  A retail customer can purchase through one of our dealers or contractors.  View Where To Buy.

 

Do you deliver locally?

We deliver to the local trades.  We deliver to both jobs sites and yards.  The receiving contractor must supply labor to unload the delivery.  We charge a nominal delivery charge to the local trades.

 

Can I pick up from your office?

Contractors can pick up from our office during normal business hours.  Please notify us when you will be arriving.

 

Can you ship Decking outside the United States?

We do have the ability to ship products outside of the United States.  Please contact us in advance to make arrangements.  Contact Us

 

How can I place an order?

You can place an order several ways.

    You can call your order in (239) 332-0400

    You can fax your order toll free to 1 (866) 374-8959.  An order form is available for download here.

    You can also place your order online here.

 

I am a dealer/ distributor in Florida.  Can I buy Products from You?

We at The Macx are the master distributor for Procell and Moisture Shield in Central and Southern Florida.  Please contact us for additional information.

 

 

Procell Answers

 

 

 

Who is Procell

Procell LLC is a manufacturing company based in Foley, Alabama.  They are located just west of Pensacola Florida.  The principals of Procell have worked with outdoor weathering polymers for many years.  Throughout those years they have specialized in PVC outdoor products.  They decided to bring their combined knowledge of superior outdoor products to the dock and deck industry.

 

Is this new technology?

There are a few specialized manufacturing processes specific to products like Procell that are somewhat new to the United States.  Some of these have been used in Europe for many years.  The base of PVC, pigment and UV inhibitors has been used in long lasting outdoor building products for many years.  It was time to introduce these proven components to the deck and dock industry.

 

Composition

Procell Decking Systems are very different from wood composite products.  Most first generation decking products were designed to use waste stream products the manufacturers could acquire inexpensively.  Procell decided to produce first quality outdoor building products.  

 

Why use PVC?

Many composite manufacturers use polyethylene (HDPE or PE).  Procell decided to base its formula with PVC.  PVC has been used in outdoor products for over 30 years.  Some of the most common uses include: vinyl siding, vinyl windows, fence, and outdoor furniture.  Polyethylene has been widely used for many years although its use has been largely devoted to products which are not exposed to direct sunlight or dramatic temperature swings such as underground tanks, indoor or underground pipe and consumer packaging.  PVC's rate of thermal expansion is about one third of Polyethylene's.  Its tensile yield strength is 2.5 times that of polyethylene.  PVC's thermal conductivity is almost one third of polyethylene.  

 

Thermoplastic Tensile Yield Strength 
(10-3 psi)
Tensile Modulus
(10-3 psi)
Coefficients of Linear Expansion
(106 in/in oF) 
Thermal Conductivity
(Btu in /h ft2 oF)
PVC 8.0 410 30 1.1
PE 3.2 120 90 3.2

 

When you consider the expansion, strength, and low thermal conduction, it is obvious why PVC has remained at the forefront as the premier polymer for outdoor building products. 

 

What is flax?  Why is it used?

Procell uses a proprietary "Fibertech" technology in its products.  PVC is blended with flax.  Flax is most commonly known for its seeds which are used to make water seal products used to treat wood.  While many manufacturers have added filler products to reduce costs, Procell uses flax to further limit thermal expansion.  The flax is mixed throughout the product during the blending process.  It bonds to the PVC molecules restricting their growth or contraction.  It is also very lightweight and strong making it a perfect companion to PVC.

 

Installation

Installation instructions are available for download here.  Procell is designed to work just like 5/4 lumber.  The product spans 16" centers and cuts and screws just like wood.  No special screws are needed to control "mushrooming" because screws do not distort the surface of the Procell boards.  The ends of boards may be butted together and clearances around pilings and other obstructions are minimal.  **A special note** Procell rim joist cover is designed to be attached with construction adhesive as well as mechanical fasteners. 

 

Special installation of rim joist cover?

Procell rim joist cover is designed to be attached with construction adhesive as well as mechanical fasteners. 

 

Warranty

All Procell products come with a residential lifetime limited warranty.  The warranty is available for download here.

 

What are the dimensions of the Procell products?

Procell makes deck boards in 12, 16, and 20 foot lengths.  These boards are made to mimic the sizes of standard 5/4 pressure treated lumber.  The thickness is 1 inch and the width is 5.5 inches.  Procell also produces a rim joist cover which is .5 inches by 11.5 inches by 12 feet in length.

 

What colors does Procell make?

Procell makes all of its products in four appealing colors.  They are: Brownstone, Ivory, Gray, and Clay (Please see the grid Here for current availability)

 

Does the product color fade over time?

Procell Decking Systems will weather similar to a high quality outdoor or automotive paint.  Procell uses very specialized pigments and UV inhibitors that have been developed to ensure proper weathering.  The products will weather uniformly and no dramatic changes will occur.  A simple analogy is to look at a one year old car.  It still gives the appearance of its original color, however the color has changed slightly when compared to an original color chip.  

 

Why doesn't Procell offer weathered samples?

Unfortunately, weathered samples have become an industry norm in wood composite decking.  Many companies have been forced to provide these samples because of the rapid and dramatic color change associated with their products.  These products were not designed to change color, but they were also not designed to keep their color.  Because of its advanced weathering technology that has been used in PVC polymers for more that 30 years, Procell does not need or use weathered samples.    Weathered samples are simply a byproduct of inferior weathering.

 

 

Does the color vary by run number?

Because Procell is made entirely of first quality components, color variation has been eliminated.  Wood composite manufacturers simply can not control the color of their finish products because they can not control the color of their ingredients.  Wood species and post consumer plastics all vary in color.

 

Does the product mold?

Unlike many other composite products, There is nothing in Procell decking that will harbor the growth of mold.  Mold may form if dirt is left on the decking surface for long periods in the right environment.  If the product is kept clean, no harsh or toxic chemicals like bleach are needed to clean the decking.

 

Is Procell Flammable?

Procell decking is self extinguishing when exposed to an open flame.  Once the flame is removed, the product will stop burning.  The flame spread rate is extremely low at 45.

 

Where can I find technical specifications about Procell?

Technical data is available for download and review here.

Architectural testing, Inc (ATI) July, 2005 report is available here.

 

Do you have Procell decking products in inventory?

Yes, we always keep an abundant supply of product to support the local dock building trade.  Dealers are serviced directly from the factory.

 

What sizes and colors do you stock?

Please use the grid below.  

 

 

 Item Description

Availability

12 foot Deck Boards: Brownstone, Ivory, Slate Gray, Clay

Special Order

12 foot Deck Boards White

N/A

16 foot Brownstone Deck Boards

In Stock

16 foot Ivory Deck Boards

In Stock

16 foot Slate Gray Deck Boards

Special Order  

16 foot White Deck Boards

N/A

16 foot Clay Deck Boards

In Stock

20 foot Brownstone Deck Boards 

In Stock

20 foot Ivory Deck Boards

In Stock

20 foot White Deck Boards

In Stock

20 foot Slate Gray Deck Boards

In Stock

20 foot Clay Deck Boards

Special Order

12 foot Rim Joist Cover (Fascia Board) Brownstone

In Stock

12 foot Rim Joist Cover (Fascia Board) Ivory

In Stock

12 foot Rim Joist Cover (Fascia Board) Slate Gray

In Stock

12 foot Rim Joist Cover (Fascia Board) White

In Stock

12 foot Rim Joist Cover (Fascia Board) Clay

In Stock

 

 

Special order items are subject to additional lead times, order minimums and/ or shipping and handling charges.

 

Moisture Shield Answers

 

What is MoistureShield®?

MoistureShield® is a long-lasting, low-maintenance decking product manufactured by A.E.R.T., a leading composite building products manufacturer. MoistureShield® is made from a 50/50 blend of recycled plastics and wood fibers. Its long lasting durability and good looks make it an ideal choice for new and resurfaced decks.

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How is MoistureShield® manufactured?

MoistureShield® is a professional grade composite decking and is manufactured using unique technology that is protected under several patents. The recycled plastic is mixed with sized wood fiber and melted together in a process that aligns and encapsulates the fiber in plastic. The plastic surrounds and bonds to the wood fibers, making them virtually moisture proof. The wood fibers reinforce the plastic, making it stiffer and greatly reducing its thermal movement. MoistureShield® decking is extruded and cured slowly producing a product that will not twist or warp. This process takes more time, but the results are worth the wait.

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Does MoistureShield® contain any preservative treatments?

MoistureShield® does not contain any preservatives. MoistureShield® is virtually impervious to moisture and does not require preservative treatments, water sealing or staining to maintain its longevity and beautiful appearance.

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How long has the product been in use?

A.E.R.T. composites were first placed into commercial use in 1989 as thresholds, bottom door rails and sub sills for several national door companies, including Peachtree and Therma-Tru Doors. A.E.R.T.'s composites resist swelling, rot and termites that are particular problems for doors and windows. Those 15 years of experience makes A.E.R.T. the oldest plastic and wood composite building products manufacturer. A.E.R.T. introduced its first decking products in 1992. Since its inception, A.E.R.T.'s composite building products have been used in millions of homes to make those homes more enjoyable and care free.

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How does the composite MoistureShield® is made from stand up against termites?

The advanced composite MoistureShield® is made from has been extensively tested for termite resistance. In fact, it was even buried in Formosan Termite Mounds in Hawaii for over nine months and successfully withstood a continuous hostile termite exposure.

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What is the warranty on MoistureShield®?

MoistureShield® has a Lifetime transferable manufacturer's limited warranty against rot and termite or insect damage. Both warranties apply only to residential use.

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Does MoistureShield® come in different styles and colors?

Yes. MoistureShield® Classic and Plus both come in five rich colors that will make your deck standout from the crowd. MoistureShield® Plus is also embossed with a unique wood grain finish that gives it the appearance of real wood, but without all the maintenance. See for yourself, MoistureShield® has been created to sustain its beauty over time.

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Will MoistureShield® rot, splinter, or decay like wood?

MoistureShield® has been extensively tested under hostile conditions and is guaranteed not to rot, splinter or decay for 10 years.

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Does MoistureShield® require water sealing or staining?

No. MoistureShield® requires no sealing or staining and is virtually maintenance free. It will only require periodic cleaning as with any flooring surface exposed to normal use and the outside elements.

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Can MoistureShield® withstand incidental salt-water contact or spray?

MoistureShield® will withstand the most hostile environment, including incidental saltwater contact or spray in coastal areas. The hardwood fiber in performance deck is encapsulated to give MoistureShield® durability and long life even the most difficult environments. The use of stainless steel screws is always recommended for applications in theses environments.

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What type of fasteners should you use with MoistureShield®?

Always install MoistureShield® with stainless steel trim head screws or hot-dipped galvanized casing nails. Regular steel or electroplated screws and nails are not recommended due to their tendency to create rust stains on any deck.

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What type of tools are required?

Installation can be done with regular woodworking tools including such things as hammer, rasp, level, square, and circular saw. Standard carbide saw blades with less than 20 teeth are recommended.

Top

Are installation instructions available?

Yes. Installation instructions can be downloaded here

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When and how do I clean MoistureShield®?

After your deck is installed, clean it thoroughly using a deck cleaner such as Dekswood® Deck Cleaner & Brightener by Flood, which contains oxalic acid, as debris from construction can create temporary stains. All decks can accumulate dirt and mildew through normal outdoor exposure. Periodic cleaning is recommended as with all exterior building products. Use deck cleaners that are specific to your needs for such things as cleaning mildew, grease, or general cleaning.

Top

Is polyethylene plastic toxic?

No. Polyethylene is non-toxic and is used for applications such as milk jugs, water jugs and grocery sacks. When burned completely under controlled conditions, it converts to carbon dioxide and water vapor.

Top

How is MoistureShield® rated?

MoistureShield® has a Class C fire rating, similar to wood. Residential decking has a uniform live load of 150 psf when spanned on 16-inch centers.

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Where has MoistureShield® been installed?

MoistureShield® has been installed in numerous applications from coast to coast. The initial commercial boardwalk was installed in 1992 at the South Padre Convention Center at South Padre Island, TX. Other notable installations include the Cape Cod National Seashore, MA; Fire Island National Park, NY; Springdale, AR; Aquatic Center; the Morrison Knudsen Nature Center in Boise, ID; and Knots Berry Farm, CA.

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Moisture Shield Stocking Grid as of 5/15/07

 

 

 Item Description

Availability

12 foot Deck Boards: Gray, Earthtone, Cherry, Cedar, Mahogany

Special Order

16 foot Cape Cod Gray Deck Boards

In Stock

16 foot Earthtone Deck Boards

In Stock

16 foot Cherry Deck Boards

Special Order

16 foot Cedar Deck Boards

In Stock

16 foot Mahogany Deck Boards

Special Order

20 foot Cape Cod Gray Deck Boards

In Stock

20 foot Earthtone Deck Boards

In Stock

20 foot Cherry Deck Boards

Special Order

20 foot Cedar Deck Boards

In Stock

20 foot Mahogany Deck Boards

In Stock

12 foot Rim Joist Cover (Fascia Board) Cape Cod Gray

Special Order

12 foot Rim Joist Cover (Fascia Board) Earthtone

Special Order

12 foot Rim Joist Cover (Fascia Board) Cherry

Special Order

12 foot Rim Joist Cover (Fascia Board) Cedar

Special Order

12 foot Rim Joist Cover (Fascia Board) Mahogany

Special Order

 

 

This information is accurate on the above date but is subject to change.

 

Special order items are subject to lead times of up to 6 weeks, order minimums and/ or shipping and handling charges of up to $600.  Please contact us to determine actual lead times and additional charges.