GAF CrossTimbers Decking Problems Lawsuit
Last Updated on June 26, 2017
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At A Glance
- This Alert Affects
- Property owners whose CrossTimbers composite decking warped, twisted, shrunk or developed stains.
- What Is CrossTimbers Decking?
- CrossTimbers is a type of composite decking that's made from a mixture of wood and plastic, which are bonded together with various agents to form a material that is meant to be stronger than regular timber.
- What's Going On?
- It has been alleged that CrossTimbers decking is defective and allows water to intrude the decking material. As a result, the decking is allegedly susceptible to warping, twisting, buckling and staining, which may occur just months after installation. In some cases, the warping has allegedly caused the decking to detach from properties, posing a safety hazard and damaging the exteriors of these properties.
- Who Makes CrossTimbers Decking?
- CrossTimbers was originally manufactured by a company called Correct Building Products, but has since been rebranded and resold through the companies GAF Building Materials and Elk Corporation. While the line of composite decking has been resold and rebranded, this does not affect consumers' rights; those who experienced similar problems with their CrossTimbers decking may still be entitled to compensation.
- Type of Lawsuit
- Class Action
Case Update
Important Information
ClassAction.org is no longer reviewing claims for this case. The information here is for reference only.
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Attorneys are reviewing potential lawsuits on behalf of property owners who experienced problems with their CrossTimbers composite decking. It has been alleged that CrossTimbers composite decking is defective because water can seep into the boards, which may cause the decking to fail prematurely. While some property owners allege that their CrossTimbers decking warped, cracked and buckled, others claim that water intrusion caused mold and mildew to grow and stain the boards. Furthermore, CrossTimbers decking may pose a safety hazard, as some property owners allege that the decking on their homes is uneven or exhibits large gaps between boards. In some cases, water damage has even spread to railings and other integral building components, causing them to deteriorate and become unstable.
My CrossTimbers Decking Has These Problems. What Can I Do?
If you experienced problems, such as staining or mildew growth, with your GAF/Elk CrossTimbers decking, you may be able to take part in a class action lawsuit and recover financial compensation. This compensation may include reimbursement for the cost of any repairs or replacements, as well as damages for loss of property value.
What Does the Lawsuit Allege?
GAF is currently facing a class action lawsuit alleging that its CrossTimbers decking is defective because it is susceptible to water damage that can cause the decking to stain, warp or degrade. As a result, the decking can allegedly pose safety hazards and diminish property values.
The plaintiffs allege that the CrossTimbers decking on their home warped, twisted and pulled away from their property. According to the plaintiffs, the allegedly defective decking compromised the structural integrity and physical appearance of their porches and homes. Furthermore, the plaintiffs allege that, in the event that they sell their homes, they must disclose the decking problems to buyers and accept a lower sales price or pay thousands of dollars out-of-pocket to redo the decking.
The lawsuit seeks to cover anyone who owns a structure in the United States in which GAF’s CrossTimbers wood decking is installed. The plaintiffs are seeking compensation for the cost of the defective decking, as well as punitive damages, designed to punish the makers of CrossTimbers decking and to deter other companies from releasing faulty products into the marketplace.
Elk, GAF CrossTimbers Decking Problems Reported Online
Consumers have taken their complaints online about the CrossTimbers decking on their properties. ConsumerAffairs.com, for example, hosts several negative reviews of GAF Elk composite decking, including:
“My house was constructed in 2009 using 2000 sq ft of GAF/Elk CrossTimbers decking on the porch and deck. Over the past several years the boards have bent and twisted to the point that they are separating the deck/porch frame from the house.” (November 18, 2013)
“Within two months [of installing Elk fire-treated decking], I first noticed odd discoloration of the boards; some large greasy looking spots that seemed to ooze up out of the boards, and numerous small black dots. In addition, even rain water left stains on the material. [...] After a year, numerous new defects emerged. First, one 16ft board buckled, creating numerous "s" curves. The contractor came out and nailed it down. At the same time, the contractor reattached the fascia that had already come loose.
In the past few months, numerous other boards have also expanded or contracted, causing the S curves, all across the deck, and numerous 1 inch gaps between the boards.
Now other boards are starting to disintegrate; with craters developing in the face of the boards and the expansion has caused the fascia to detach. In addition, the rails and posts are breaking down--covering your hand in dust when you touch them.” (July 26, 2011)
In some cases, property owners have complained that the decking can develop scuff marks and mildew stains that cannot be removed, even when using deck cleaners, power washers or bleach.
The most common problems reported with GAF composite decking include:
- Warping
- Cracking
- Mildew stains
- Scruff marks
- Grease or oil spots
- Water stains
- Expansion and contraction
- White spots and general discoloration
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