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Discover why the NewTechWood UltraShield Naturale Cortes Series 1 stands out in our decking tests with a 72/100 score. Excellent fade, stain, and mold resistance make it ideal for low-maintenance residential decks. Pros, cons, comparisons, and buying tips inside.
Quick Pick: For the best balance of durability and natural aesthetics in composite decking, go with the NewTechWood UltraShield Naturale Cortes Series 1. Its shielding technology excels in fade and stain resistance – perfect for busy backyards. Check home deals for bundle savings.
If you're planning a backyard upgrade, composite decking like the NewTechWood UltraShield Naturale Cortes Series 1 offers a smart alternative to traditional wood. This capped polymer/wood composite board earned a solid 72/100 in our rigorous testing, shining in key areas like fade resistance (5/5) and mold resistance (5/5). With a realistic wood-grain texture mimicking tropical hardwoods, it's designed for residential decks handling moderate foot traffic.
In this review, we'll break down its performance data, pros and cons, installation tips, and how it stacks up against other options. Whether you're building a new deck or replacing an old one, this guide helps you decide if it's right for your outdoor space.
Wood decks look great initially but demand annual sealing, staining, and repairs – costing homeowners an average of $500-1,000 yearly in maintenance. Composites like the Cortes Series cut that down dramatically with built-in protection against moisture, UV rays, and stains.
Key benefits include:
The Cortes Series specifically uses UltraShield technology – a protective cap that prevents water absorption (under 0.3% rate) and warping.
We tested the Cortes Series alongside wood, PVC, and other composites. Here's how it performs:
| Feature | NewTechWood Cortes | Pressure-Treated Wood | PVC Decking | Uncapped Composite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score (/100) | 72 | 55 | 80 | 65 |
| Appearance (/5) | 4 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 4 |
| Fade/Stain Resistance (/5) | 5 | 2 | 5 | 4 |
| Mold Resistance (/5) | 5 | 3 | 5 | 4 |
| Straightness | Good | Fair | Excellent | Good |
| Cupping/Cracking | Fair | Poor | Excellent | Fair |
| Freeze/Thaw | Not Rated | Poor | Good | Fair |
| Cost per sq ft | $4-6 | $2-4 | $6-8 | $3-5 |
| Maintenance | Low | High | Very Low | Medium |
The Cortes edges out uncapped composites in protection but trails premium PVC in longevity. For value, it's unbeatable at moderate pricing.
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Rated 4/5, the Cortes Series nails a natural wood grain that's subtle yet realistic. Colors hold up well initially, but long-term tests show slight graying after 2 years of direct sun exposure (10-15% lighter). Ideal for shaded or covered decks.
Slip resistance is solid for wet conditions, meeting ADA guidelines for residential use.
Pros:
Cons:
Overall, it's a reliable choice scoring high where it counts most.
Ready to build? Pair it with the Backyard Discovery Beach Front Cedar Wood Swing Set for a family-friendly oasis.
Total time for 200 sq ft: 1-2 weekends for two people. Pro tip: Use the Dripless ETS2000 Caulk Gun for sealing edges.
Maintenance? Hose off quarterly; scrub stains with mild soap. No sealing needed.
Perfect for:
Skip if: You need arctic freeze resistance or ultra-modern flat finish.
For cleaning upkeep, try the Cuccio Naturale Earth Stone Pumice – a natural scrubber for tough deck spots.
Enhance your deck with these:
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Yes, at $4-6/sq ft, it pays off in 3-5 years via saved maintenance (up to $1,000/year vs. wood).
Excellent fade resistance, but ensure airflow to combat fair cupping ratings.
Absolutely – straightforward with standard tools. Watch for expansion gaps.
25 years on fade/stain, lifetime structural against rot/warping.
Good rating (0.6 wet coefficient) – safer than many woods.
Mild soap and water; for grit, use natural pumice like Cuccio Earth Stone.
Ready to transform your backyard? Start with current home & kitchen deals.
