
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are ThruFlow™ Interlocking
Panels?
ThruFlow Interlocking Panels are the ideal choice for decks, docks,
walkways, in the home and around pools and spas. ThruFlow is a unique
polymer panel that allows water; debris and sunlight to pass through
your walking surface, keeping your walking surface clean. Sunlight and
water penetration in concert helps to keep vegetation alive, helping to
minimize the effect of your walking surface on the environment.
Now there’s a new way to increase the usable space in
your home with the ThruFlow™ system. Ventilated panels keep air flowing
while allowing you to walk freely throughout your attic and increase
storage space.
Why should I choose ThruFlow™
Interlocking Panels for my application?
ThruFlow Interlocking Panels have the perfect mix of qualities that make
it a superior product to many competitors. To compare ThruFlow to some
competitive products please click
HERE.
What colors does ThruFlow™ come in?
ThruFlow is currently offered in three colors; Light Grey, Sea Foam
(Off-White) and Maple (Beige). Color is consistent through the entire
material.
 |
 |
 |
| Sea Foam |
Light Grey |
Maple |
Are ThruFlow™ Interlocking Panels made
of recycled materials?
ThruFlow is made from virgin plastic reinforced with fibreglass and
contains no recycled materials. The use of premium virgin plastic allows
ThruFlow™ to offer increased load bearing and flexural stiffness
properties. This allows ThruFlow™ to be used on 16” centers, like most
existing structures, without the need for further support. ThruFlow is
recyclable (subject to local regulations).
What sizes do ThruFlow™ Interlocking
Panels come in?
ThruFlow is currently offered in three sizes; Three Foot Panels (12" x
36"), Four Foot Panels (12" x 48") and Five Foot Panels (12" x 60").
The three-foot panels are meant to cover approximately
36 inches in length and 12 inches in width with a product thickness of
approximately 1.25 inches.
The four-foot panels are meant to cover approximately 48
inches in length and 12 inches in width with a product thickness of
approximately 1.25 inches.
The five-foot panels are meant to cover approximately 60
inches in length and 12 inches in width with a product thickness of
approximately 1.25 inches.
Will the color of ThruFlow™ change?
ThruFlow™ panels should not change color significantly (more than 15%
from new) over the first 7 years of exposure.
Do ThruFlow™ Interlocking Panels come
with a warranty?
Yes, ThruFlow™ has a limited warranty. The ThruFlow™ limited warranty
offers coverage against material defects in workmanship and materials,
and against rot, decay and termite damage. The total life expectancy for
ThruFlow™ interlocking panels is currently undetermined. Accelerated age
testing is ongoing and to date we know of no environmental factors that
harm or cause significant deterioration to ThruFlow™.
See warranty
details.
How do I dispose of ThruFlow™ panels?
Can it be taken to a landfill?
ThruFlow™ contains no toxic preservatives and is recyclable. Please
consult your local authorities on whether you need to recycle ThruFlow™
construction waste or dispose of with regular construction waste.
Where can you buy ThruFlow™
Interlocking Panels and how much does it cost?
ThruFlow™ is available through a network of regional distributors and
local dealers. You can call 1-888-478-3569 for the dealer or distributor
nearest you. You'll find that ThruFlow™ is very competitive in cost to
premium grades of decking lumbers. And, since ThruFlow™ panels never
require stains or sealants for protection, you will be dollars ahead in
the future.
What types of fasteners are
recommended for ThruFlow™ Interlocking Panels?
We recommend high quality screws such as #10 or #12 pan head stainless
steel screw to take advantage of ThruFlow’s™ longevity. Pre-drilling is
not required as the holes are molded in with a countersink for your
convenience, screws should be clear through the panel and fastened into
the material of your structural frame. Remember not to tighten the screw
down to allow for expansion or contraction.
Are ThruFlow™ Interlocking Panels
structural?
No. While ThruFlow™ is tough and durable, it does not have the same
stiffness as wood. Therefore, it is not intended for use as a
load-bearing structural member.
What joist spans should I use for my
dock, deck or walkway when using ThruFlow™?
For ThruFlow™ panels, the joist spacing should be 16" on center for all
applications (18” for 3’ Product, 15" for 5' Product), which is the same
span generally recommended for wood. Special applications/loading
conditions will require engineering analysis and/or reduced spans,
please consult and adhere to your local building code.
Do ThruFlow™ Panels require gapping
between panels?
Yes, in both directions. While ThruFlow™ Interlocking Panels will not
shrink or swell due to changes in moisture, changes in temperature will
cause slight expansion/contraction. Therefore, gapping is required both
side-to-side and at the panel ends to allow for thermal
expansion/contraction. Rules of Thumb: ThruFlow Interlocking Panels
should be allowed to grow minimum of 1/16" in total length (1/32” each
end) and 1/32” in total width (1/64” per side) for every 30°F of
difference between installation temperature and the hottest temperature
expected.
Can ThruFlow™ be painted or stained?
It is not recommended to paint or stain ThruFlow™. Stain will not
penetrate well and paint will not adhere well to the panel.
Does ThruFlow™ provide good traction?
ThruFlow’s™ entire walking surface has a knurled finish for slip
resistance and has been tested to provide a 0.78 static coefficient of
friction.
Can ThruFlow™ be used in full ground
contact? Is treating required?
ThruFlow™ is ideal for ground contact applications such as walkways and
in-ground pool surrounds. ThruFlow™ is resistant to rot and insects, and
absolutely no treating is required.
|