Millions of Feet of Decking Material Recalled After Injuries
Millions of feet of composite decking material is being recalled by manufacturer Louisiana-Pacific Corporation. A defect in the material can cause the decking to deteriorate prematurely and break, and the problem has already caused a number of falls and injuries.
The composite deck material was sold under the "Veranda" brand name at Home Depot stores nationwide between January 2005 and August 2008, at a price of $1.50 to $2.25 per foot, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The composite decking was also available for sale at other building product dealers under the "LP WeatherBest" and "ABTCo." brand names.
A CPSC Press Release on the recalled composite decking contains detailed information on affected brands and products, photos of the decking as installed, and a photo example of the deterioration.
The recall of 48 million linear feet of composite decking was prompted by at least 37 reports of the outdoor board and railing materials breaking and causing at least 14 injuries, including broken bones, lacerations, and bruises, CPSC reports.
CPSC offers the following advice to affected homeowners: "Consumers with the recalled decking should immediately contact LP for a free inspection. If the decking is affected by premature deterioration, LP will arrange for a free replacement."
- CPSC Press Release on Composite Decking Recall by Louisiana-Pacific (CPSC.gov)
- L.A. Times: Millions of Feet of Decking Recalled After Breaking, Causing Injuries
- Defective Products - Legal Issues (FindLaw)
- What are Manufacturing Defects? (FindLaw)
- Personal Injuries from Defective Products (provided by Craven Hoover Blazek)