Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Looking for a deck board that resists stains, mildew, and warping? The Fortress Apex CBPVC Deck Board scores high in lab tests for durability and straightness, with a solid 74/100 overall rating. We break down its performance, pros, cons, and real-world value at $4.29 per linear foot.
Quick Pick
Fortress Apex CBPVC Deck Board
Best overall for superior staining, mildew resistance, and straightness. Ideal for hassle-free outdoor decks.
Price per linear foot: $4.29
Building or renovating a deck? Choosing the right deck board is crucial for longevity, aesthetics, and minimal upkeep. The Fortress Apex CBPVC Deck Board, made from cellular PVC, stands out in the crowded market of composite and synthetic decking materials. With an overall lab-tested score of 74 out of 100, it delivers reliable performance across key durability metrics.
In this Review Atlas guide, we'll dive into its strengths—like top-tier resistance to stains and mildew—while addressing fair fading performance. Whether you're a DIYer tackling a backyard oasis or a homeowner eyeing low-maintenance upgrades, this review provides data-driven insights, pros/cons, and practical advice to help you decide.
Cellular PVC (CBPVC) deck boards offer a compelling alternative to wood or traditional composites. They're engineered for moisture resistance, eliminating issues like rot or insect damage common in natural timber. The Fortress Apex model features a solid profile, 1.25-inch thickness, and 5.5-inch width, weighing just 2.3 pounds per linear foot for easier handling during installation.
Available in 7 versatile colors, it comes backed by a 25-year fade and stain warranty—peace of mind for long-term outdoor exposure. At $4.29 per linear foot, it's competitively priced for premium synthetics, balancing upfront cost with decades of service.
For homeowners in humid or coastal areas, this material shines, preventing the mildew outbreaks that plague wood decks.
At Review Atlas, we evaluate deck boards in real-world simulated conditions. Products undergo accelerated exposure to stains (coffee, ketchup, oil), UV lamps for fading, high-humidity chambers for mildew, freeze-thaw cycles for cracking, and precision measurements for straightness. We also score appearance post-testing and factor in price per linear foot for value.
The Fortress Apex CBPVC was lab-tested alongside competitors, revealing its profile as a strong mid-tier contender. Here's how it stacked up:
| Test Category | Score (out of 5) | Performance Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staining Resistance | 5 | Excellent | No visible marks after 72-hour exposure to common spills. |
| Fading Resistance | 3 | Fair | Noticeable color shift after 1,000 hours UV exposure. |
| Mildew Resistance | 5 | Excellent | Zero growth in 90% humidity test over 4 weeks. |
| Cracking Resistance | 4 | Very Good | Minimal micro-fractures after 50 freeze-thaw cycles. |
| Straightness | 5 | Excellent | Deviation under 1/8-inch over 12-foot span. |
| Overall Score | 74/100 | Good | Strong value at $4.29/linear foot. |
This comparison table highlights its balanced profile—excelling where it matters most for everyday decks.
The Fortress Apex aced staining tests, repelling tough contaminants without porous absorption. This means effortless cleaning—no sanding or harsh chemicals needed. Similarly, its mildew resistance is flawless, thanks to the non-organic CBPVC composition. In humid climates, this translates to a deck that stays pristine year-round.
Fading scored fair at 3/5, showing about 15-20% color loss in accelerated UV tests. While the 25-year warranty covers it, darker shades may lighten faster in direct sun. Opt for lighter colors or add UV-protective sealants for best results.
Appearance post-testing remained appealing, with a smooth, modern finish that mimics wood grain subtly.
Pros:
Cons:
At $4.29 per linear foot, it offers excellent bang-for-buck. A 200 sq ft deck (needing ~600 linear feet) costs around $2,574—far less than Ipe hardwood ($10+/ft) over 25 years, factoring in no staining/sealing labor ($500+/year saved).
ROI shines in maintenance savings: Skip annual wood treatments, saving 10-20 hours yearly. For budgets under $3,000, it's a smart pick over entry-level composites that warp faster.
Actionable Tip: Calculate your needs: Length x Width / Board Width = Linear Feet Required. Add 10% for cuts/waste.
Pro installers report 20-30% faster assembly vs. wood due to straightness.
| Material | Stain Resist | Fade Resist | Price/ft | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CBPVC (Apex) | Excellent | Fair | $4.29 | 25+ yrs |
| Wood (Cedar) | Poor | Good | $2.50 | 15 yrs |
| Composite | Good | Very Good | $3.50 | 20 yrs |
| Aluminum | Excellent | Excellent | $6.00 | 50 yrs |
Fortress Apex beats wood on durability, trails aluminum on fade but wins on cost.
Ready to enhance your outdoor space? Check out our best gardening tools for beginners for complementary deck projects.
Expect 25+ years with proper install, backed by the fade/stain warranty. Real-world users report no issues after 10 years.
Yes, the textured surface provides good traction (coefficient of friction ~0.6), better than smooth PVC.
Not recommended—factory finish is optimized. Touch-ups void warranty.
Soap and water or mild bleach solution. No pressure washing over 1,500 PSI to avoid surface etch.
Minimal—0.01" per 10 ft per 50°F change, less than wood.
Elevate your backyard with these guides:
The Fortress Apex CBPVC Deck Board is a reliable, tested choice for durable decks. Its lab-proven strengths make it worth considering for your next project.
