With an abundant selection of decking materials, colors, shapes, and sizes available to consumers, competitive decking and railing manufacturers can’t afford to lose projects due to a lack of technical data and product certification. Because each type of material used in decks and railings will have different performance characteristics and requirements, these manufacturers find their path to market acceptance shortest when they choose to work with third-party agencies with demonstrated expertise and trust from the market. Be proactive by planning deck and railing testing and certification during product development, in collaboration with a third-party agency before your products go to market.

ICC-ES accredited laboratories conduct tests for various deck and railing materials, including but not limited to:

• Aluminum
• Glass
• Plastic (Polystyrene or PVC)
• Wood (Composite or Natural)

Below is a list of standards or criteria that may be included in test plans for deck and railing products:

• ASTM D7032: Standard Specification for Establishing Performance Ratings for Wood-Plastic Composite and Plastic Lumber Deck Boards, Stair Treads, Guards, and Handrails
• ICC-ES AC174: Deck Board Span Ratings and Guardrail Systems (Guards and Handrails)
• ICC-ES AC273: Handrails and Guards
• ICC-ES AC439: Glass Railing and Balustrade System