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[CCMC 14154-R] CCMC Canadian code compliance evaluation

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Compliance opinion

It is the opinion of the Canadian Construction Materials Centre that the evaluated product, when used as exterior decking in accordance with the conditions and limitations stated in this evaluation, complies with the following codes:

National Building Code of Canada 2015

ID Code provision Solution type
09-03-02-09-00-0-009.3.2.9. Termite and Decay ProtectionAlternative
09-04-02-03-00-0-009.4.2.3. Platforms Subject to Snow and Occupancy LoadsAlternative
09-04-03-01-00-0-009.4.3.1. DeflectionsAlternative
09-23-15-05-00-0-009.23.15.5. Subfloor Thickness or RatingAlternative

National Building Code of Canada 2020

ID Code provision Solution type
09-03-02-09-00-0-009.3.2.9. Termite and Decay ProtectionAlternative
09-04-02-03-00-0-009.4.2.3. Platforms Subject to Snow and Occupancy LoadsAlternative
09-04-03-01-00-0-009.4.3.1. DeflectionsAlternative
09-23-15-05-00-0-009.23.15.5. Subfloor Thickness or RatingAlternative

Ontario Building Code

Ruling No. 24-05-379 (14154-R) authorizing the use of this product in Ontario, subject to the terms and conditions contained in the Ruling, was made by the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing on 2024-08-06 pursuant to s.29 of the Building Code Act, 1992 (see Ruling for terms and conditions). This Ruling is subject to periodic revisions and updates.

The above opinion(s) is/are based on the evaluation by the CCMC of technical evidence provided by the evaluation holder, and is bound by the stated conditions and limitations. For the benefit of the user, a summary of the technical information that forms the basis of this evaluation has been included.

Product information

Product name

Tropics Deckboard

Product description

The product is a wood thermoplastic composite lumber (WTCL) made primarily from oak hardwood flour and reclaimed/recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The product is manufactured through a continuous extrusion process and formed into planks of solid arched (lobbed) cross-sections with HDPE alloy capping. The product is manufactured in nominal dimensions of 25.4 mm × 136.4 mm and available in 2.44 m, 3.66 m, and 4.88 m lengths. The product is installed either with face fasteners or Stowaway® hidden plastic fasteners.

The product is intended to be used as exterior decking to be installed over traditional structural wood framing, spaced at 400 mm on centre (o.c.).

Isometric profile drawing of the deck boards installation details - with exposed fasteners.
Figure 1. Installation details for the product when using exposed fasteners
  1. 3 mm to 8 mm minimum end-to-end gapping, depending on length of plank and temperature at installation
  2. TG-2 (Tropics Gen 2) decking
  3. 6.4 mm minimum width-to-width gapping, depending on temperature at installation
  4. minimum of three joists per plank
  5. maximum joist spacing of 400 mm o.c.
  6. joist designed to support applicable loads
  7. two fasteners, 64 mm long, per support
Isometric profile drawing of the deck boards installation details - with hidden fasteners.
Figure 2. Installation details for the product when using hidden fasteners
  1. 3 mm to 8 mm minimum end-to-end gapping, depending on length of plank and temperature at installation
  2. 6.4 mm minimum width-to-width gapping, depending on temperature at installation
  3. minimum of three joists per plank
  4. maximum joist spacing of 400 mm o.c.
  5. joist designed to support applicable loads

Manufacturing plant

This evaluation is valid only for products produced at the following plant:

Product nameManufacturing plant
Prairie du Chien, WI, US
Tropics DeckboardProduct evaluated by the CCMC

Product evaluated by the CCMC Indicates that the product from this manufacturing facility has been evaluated by the CCMC

  Conditions and limitations

The CCMC’s compliance opinion is bound by this product being used in accordance with the conditions and limitations set out below.

  • The product must be installed with supports spaced no greater than 400 mm o.c. Each plank must be supported by at least three supports.
  • The product (planks) must be fastened to the wood joists with fasteners specified by the manufacturer that conform to Article 9.23.3.1., Standards for Nails and Screws, of Division B of the NBC 2015. The fasteners must have a corrosion-resistant coating or be made of stainless steel. The planks must be fastened with at least two fasteners per support and the fasteners must be at least 64 mm long.Footnote (1)
  • The product must not be installed below –7°C.
  • The product (planks) must be gapped end to end, based on the length of the plank and the temperature at installation. The end-to-end gapping must be between 3 mm and 8 mm, depending on the ambient temperature at installation. Refer to "Tropic Gen 2 Grooved Decking Installation Instructions" version 10533 3/23 for further details.
  • The width-to-width gapping of the planks must be 6.4 mm.
  • Slip-resistant strips must be provided in accordance with Article 9.8.9.6, Finish for Treads and Landings, of Division B of the NBC 2015.
  • The product is not to be considered as an equivalent to dimensional lumber.
  • The product is permitted where decay resistance is required according to Sentence 9.3.2.9.(3)(a), of Division B of the NBC 2015.
  • The product is permitted where termite resistance is required according to Sentence 9.3.2.9.(1)(b), of Division B of the NBC 2015.
  • The product must not be used as a stair tread.
  • Permanent point loads (such as gazebo posts) must be applied directly above the support.

  Technical information

This evaluation is based on demonstrated conformance with the following criteria:

Evaluation requirements
Criteria number Criteria name
CCMC-TG-067314.01-15CCCMC Technical Guide for Wood Thermoplastic Composite Lumber Exterior Decking
CCMC-TG-067314.01-20ACCMC Technical Guide for Wood Thermoplastic Composite Lumber Exterior Decking

The evaluation holder has submitted technical documentation for the CCMC’s evaluation. Testing was conducted at laboratories recognized by the CCMC. The corresponding technical evidence for this product is summarized below.

Material requirements 

Table 1. Results of testing physical and mechanical properties of the product
Property Unit Requirement ResultTable footnote (1)Table footnote (2)
Dimensional change – coefficient of linear expansion (thermal) – longitudinal cm/cm/°C < 2 × 10-5  2.65 × 10-5Table footnote (3)
Dimensional change – coefficient of linear expansion (thermal) – transverse cm/cm/°C < 2 × 10-5

6.47 × 10-5Table footnote (3)
Dimensional change – coefficient of linear expansion (swelling) – oven dry to vacuum pressure soak % ≤ 0.5 by 80% of specimens –0.28
Strength and stiffness – modulus of elasticity (MOE) – span-to-depth ratio within 18 to 21 MPa ≥ 750 2 424
Strength and stiffness – modulus of rupture (MOR) – span-to-depth ratio within 18 to 21 MPa ≥ 9 24.91
Impact resistance – Izod impact, notched J/m > 53.4 46.35Table footnote (4)
Hardness – 11.28-mm-diameter ball kN > 1.8 4.94
Creep, recovery, and load duration % ≤ 25 for creep 41.3Table footnote (5)
Creep, recovery, and load duration % ≥ 75 for recovery 76.4
Creep, recovery, and load duration % No failure Pass
Strength and stiffness after aging – weathering – impact resistance % ≥ 75 of non-weathered value 94.7
Strength and stiffness after aging – accelerated aging – MOE % ≥ 50 of non-aged value 101.0
Strength and stiffness after aging – accelerated aging – MOR % ≥ 50 of non-aged value 102.6
Fastener holding capacity – face fastening – nail withdrawal strength N ≥ 600 1 120
Fastener holding capacity – face fastening – lateral nail strength N ≥ 720 1 563
Fastener holding capacity – hidden fastening system – nail withdrawal strength N ≥ 600 1 177
Fastener holding capacity – hidden fastening system – lateral nail strength N ≥ 720 1 903
Table 2. Results of testing the decay, termite, and slip-resistance properties of the product
Property Requirement Result
Decay resistance – % loss in weight Mean percentage loss in weight after exposure to decay-causing fungi must be equal to or better than preservative-treated wood conforming to CAN/CSA-O80.1-M97, "Preservative Treatment of All Timber Products by Pressure Processes" Passed
Decay resistance – % loss compressive strength Mean percentage loss in compressive strength after exposure to decay-causing fungi must be equal to or better than preservative-treated wood conforming to CAN/CSA-O80.1 Passed
Termite resistance Rating must be equal to or better than preservative-treated wood conforming to CAN/CSA-O80.1 Passed
Slip resistance (longitudinal) – wet condition Slip coefficient ≥ 0.5 0.372Table footnote (1)
Slip resistance (longitudinal) – dry condition  Slip coefficient ≥ 0.5 0.502

Performance requirements 

Table 3. Results of testing the performance of the product under both concentrated static loads and impact loads: Face fastened boards
Property Unit Requirement

ResultTable footnote (1)
Concentrated static load – decking at 50°C – minimum ultimate load kN ≥ 2.45 4.97
Concentrated static load – decking at 20°C – minimum ultimate load kN ≥ 2.45 6.51
Concentrated static load – decking at –35°C – minimum ultimate load kN ≥ 2.45 7.48
Concentrated static load – decking at 50°C – maximum deflection under 0.89 kN load mm ≤ 2.0 3.34Table footnote (2)
Concentrated static load – decking at 20°C – maximum deflection under 0.89 kN load mm ≤ 2.0 1.80
Concentrated static load – decking at –35°C – maximum deflection under 0.89 kN load mm ≤ 2.0 2.32Table footnote (3)
Following impact load of 102 N·m – decking at 50°C – minimum ultimate load kN ≥ 1.78 No break
Following impact load of 102 N·m – decking at 50°C – maximum deflection under 0.89 kN load mm ≤ 2.0 6.66Table footnote (2)
Table 4. Results of testing the performance of the product under both concentrated static loads and impact loads: Boards with a hidden fastening system
Property Unit Requirement ResultTable footnote (1)
Concentrated static load – decking at 50°C – minimum ultimate load kN ≥ 2.45 4.99
Concentrated static load – decking at 20°C – minimum ultimate load kN ≥ 2.45 6.52
Concentrated static load – decking at –35°C – minimum ultimate load kN ≥ 2.45 7.27
Concentrated static load – decking at 50°C – maximum deflection under 0.89 kN load mm ≤ 2.0 3.29Table footnote (2)
Concentrated static load – decking at 20°C – maximum deflection under 0.89 kN load mm ≤ 2.0 1.75
Concentrated static load – decking at –35°C – maximum deflection under 0.89 kN load mm ≤ 2.0 2.08Table footnote (3)
Following impact load of 102 N·m – decking at 50°C – minimum ultimate load kN ≥ 1.78 No break
Following impact load of 102 N·m – decking at 50°C – maximum deflection under 0.89 kN load mm ≤ 2.0 5.83Table footnote (2)
Table 5. Results of testing the durability of the product
Property Requirement Result – S-P-F lumber Result – Tropics Deckboard
Bending stiffness Mean percentage loss in bending stiffness (MOE) after ultraviolet (UV) exposureTable footnote (1) and accelerated agingTable footnote (2) must be less than or equal to spruce lumber 14.5% 8.5%
Bending strength Mean percentage loss in bending stress (MOR) after UV exposureTable footnote (1) and accelerated agingTable footnote (2) must be less than or equal to spruce lumber 43.6% 12.9%

Additional performance data

Data in this section does not form part of the CCMC’s opinion. 

Table 6. Results of testing additional performance data - flame spread rating
Property Unit Reference value Result
Flame spread rating - ≤ 200 95
Smoke development - Report value 335

 

Table 7. Results of testing additional performance data - hidden fastening system after aging
Property Unit Requirement ResultTable footnote (1)
Fastener holding capacity after aging at 50°C – hidden fastening system – retained nail withdrawal strength % Report value

76.6Table footnote (2)
Fastener holding capacity after aging at 50°C – hidden fastening system – retained lateral nail strength % Report value 109.3
Fastener holding capacity after aging at –35°C – hidden fastening system – retained nail withdrawal strength % Report value

151.1
Fastener holding capacity after aging at –35°C – hidden fastening system – retained lateral nail strength % Report value 51.2Table footnote (2)
Fastener holding capacity after UV aging – hidden fastening system – retained nail withdrawal strength %  Report value 97.8
Fastener holding capacity after UV aging – hidden fastening system – retained lateral nail strength % Report value 110.4
 

 

Administrative information

Use of Canadian Construction Materials Centre (CCMC) assessments

This assessment must be read in the context of the entire CCMC Registry of Product Assessments, any applicable building code or by-law requirements, and/or any other regulatory requirements (for example, the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act, the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, etc.).

It is the responsibility of the user to confirm that the assessment they are using is current and has not been withdrawn or superseded by a later version on the CCMC Registry of Product Assessments.

Disclaimer

The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) has evaluated only the characteristics of the specific product described herein. The information and opinions in this evaluation are directed to those who have the appropriate degree of experience to use and apply its contents (such as authorities having jurisdiction, design professionals and specifiers). This evaluation is valid when the product is used as part of permitted construction, respecting all conditions and limitations stated in the evaluation, and in accordance with applicable building codes and by-laws.

This evaluation is provided without representation, warranty or guarantee of any kind, expressed or implied, and the NRC provides no endorsement for any evaluated product. The NRC accepts no responsibility whatsoever arising in any way from any and all use of or reliance on the information contained herein or the use of any evaluated product. The NRC is not undertaking to render professional or other services on behalf of any person or entity nor to perform any duty owed by any person or entity to another person or entity.

Language

Une version française de ce document est disponible.
In the case of any discrepancy between the English and French version of this document, the English version shall prevail.

Copyright

© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, as represented by the National Research Council of Canada, 2024

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the CCMC.

CCMC recognition

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Most Canadian authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) consider CCMC product assessments acceptable as evidence for product approval.

CCMC assessments are recognized by construction authorities across Canada:

The CCMC provides code compliance assessments to Canadian code requirements, consulting nationwide with construction regulators to elicit regional variations in code requirements as well as provincial and local interpretations. Users are advised to review the technical information presented in CCMC assessments when making approval decisions. Learn more about how the CCMC provides a unique service for Canada.

For more information, contact the CCMC by phone at (613) 993-6189 or by email at ccmc@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca

NOTICE

The information presented on this webpage (in HTML format) is the most up-to-date information available from the CCMC about this assessment.

By downloading this PDF you acknowledge that:

  • this PDF is intended for record-keeping purposes only,
  • it represents the information as it was available at the time of downloading, and
  • it may not reflect the latest available information at some future date.
References to this CCMC assessment (in product literature, on websites, etc.) must be made by linking to the evaluation webpage. This PDF must not be used as a means of distributing this assessment to an audience.

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Code compliance as an acceptable solution

Code Compliance via Acceptable Solutions

If a building design (e.g. material, component, assembly or system) can be shown to meet all provisions of the applicable acceptable solutions in Division B (e.g. it complies with the applicable provisions of a referenced standard), it is deemed to have satisfied the objectives and functional statements linked to those provisions and thus to have complied with that part of the Code.

National Building Code of Canada, Sentence A-1.2.1.1.(1)(a)

The CCMC has determined that compliance with this provision of the Code has been demonstrated as an Acceptable Solution. The evaluation report provides a summary of the basis of CCMC's compliance opinion.

CCMC's code compliance opinions

All CCMC evaluation reports are opinions of code compliance established in accordance with the National Building Code of Canada, Subsection 1.2.1. "Compliance with this Code," which requires compliance to be achieved by:

  • complying with the applicable acceptable solutions in Division B, or
  • using an alternative solution that will achieve at least the minimum level of performance required by Division B in the areas defined by the objective and functional statements attributed to the applicable acceptable solutions.

The CCMC assesses compliance with Canadian building, energy and safety codes, and is trusted by over 6,000 regulators across Canada.

Code compliance as an alternative solution

Code Compliance via Alternative Solutions

Where a design differs from the acceptable solutions in Division B, then it should be treated as an "alternative solution." A proponent of an alternative solution must demonstrate that the alternative solution addresses the same issues as the applicable acceptable solutions in Division B and their attributed objectives and functional statements. However, because the objectives and functional statements are entirely qualitative, demonstrating compliance with them in isolation is not possible. Therefore, Clause 1.2.1.1.(1)(b) identifies the principle that Division B establishes the quantitative performance targets that alternative solutions must meet. In many cases, these targets are not defined very precisely by the acceptable solutions [...] Nevertheless, Clause 1.2.1.1.(1)(b) makes it clear that an effort must be made to demonstrate that an alternative solution will perform as well as a design that would satisfy the applicable acceptable solutions in Division B—not “well enough” but “as well as.”

National Building Code of Canada, Sentence A-1.2.1.1.(1)(b)

The CCMC has determined that compliance with this provision of the Code has been demonstrated as an Alternative Solution. The evaluation report provides a summary of the basis of CCMC's compliance opinion.

CCMC's code compliance opinions

All CCMC evaluation reports are opinions of code compliance established in accordance with the National Building Code of Canada, Subsection 1.2.1. "Compliance with this Code," which requires compliance to be achieved by:

  • complying with the applicable acceptable solutions in Division B, or
  • using an alternative solution that will achieve at least the minimum level of performance required by Division B in the areas defined by the objective and functional statements attributed to the applicable acceptable solutions.

The CCMC assesses compliance with Canadian building, energy and safety codes, and is trusted by over 6,000 regulators across Canada.

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