Key Questions to Ask When Ordering Composite Rock Slice Manufacturer
FAQs - Rock West Composites
Do you have a catalog?
To be as eco-friendly as possible we do not offer a printed catalog. All of our available products, pricing structures, and ordering can be done
online.
I am in Utah. Can I come visit the facility or pick up my order?
For ecommerce orders, yes. When ordering locally, please place the order online prior to coming in. The order must be placed online before Noon MST for the order to be ready same day and available for pick up at 4pm or later. You are welcome to stop by our Salt Lake City location anytime during our business hours to view our facility and see our products in person. Our business hours are 8am – 5pm Monday through Thursday. 8am to 3:30pm on Fridays. If you are a school wanting a tour, please us at .
Visits to our San Diego location must be coordinated with your Business Development representative
Do you sell to the public?
Yes. Our pricing structures are the same for both business and individual customers.
As a business can I get a discount?
Our pricing structure is based strictly on product quantity. These low prices are available to individuals and businesses equally. RWC prices and discounts are subject to change without notice and do not include any state or local taxes. Buyer shall pay, in addition to the price of the goods, all applicable taxes and excises unless Buyer furnishes RWC with a valid “Reseller Number” or copy of tax exemption certificates prior to ordering. Refund for sales tax cannot be refunded after order has been placed. Prices are quoted and payable in US Dollars. All orders are subject to applicable shipping, freight, taxes, and handling charges
Is there a minimum order?
Not for most items. However we do have required lengths. Most of our tubing is sold as full length tubes (72”) and sometimes smaller sizes (sizes will be listed in the length field). The filament wound tubes are sold per foot.
Can I make an order online if I am an international customer?
Yes. Our online ordering system allows for international shipments. These are subject to additional charges due to importation and customs fees. Rock West will not be responsible for reimbursement of these fees unless Rock West shipped erroneously. On occasion the charges automatically collected by the website may not be sufficient for the service, and we will reach out to you to collect the difference.
What forms of payment do you accept?
All purchases must be prepaid either by a major credit card, a bank debit card or by PayPal. We accept MasterCard, Visa, and American Express.
Credit terms: All orders are subject to credit approval. Unless otherwise agreed to in advance, terms are NET 30 DAYS FROM DATE OF INVOICE. Rock West Composites (RWC) may require full or partial payment or payment guarantee in advance of shipment whenever, in its opinion, the financial condition of the buyer so warrants. RWC reserves the right to assess a service charge of 1.5% per month on unpaid balances, until paid. Buyer shall be liable for all expenses, including attorney’s fees, related to the collections of past due accounts. RWC reserves the right to withhold shipment of materials pending resolutions of past due account balances and the right to revise credit terms based on credit history.
Do you charge sales tax?
In response to the Wayfair Decision, we charge tax in states where we do not qualify for an exemption and are required to do so by law. Currently, those states include California, Colorado, Georgia, Government, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin. This list changes regularly.
If you would like to submit an exemption, you must create an account by submitting your Sales Tax Resale Certificate to us via the . The exemption must be approved before purchasing, as we cannot issue refunds for tax after the sale. Please reference the address associated with your account when submitting your forms. The approval process normally takes 1-2 business days. (See Tax Exemptions under Payment Terms on our Policies page.)
How can I determine if I will be charged tax so I know to submit my Sales Tax Resale Certificate?
Fill your cart with your desired order and then view the cart. Under Estimate Shipping, enter your destination/postal code and shipping method. Scroll down to Cart Summary and you will see your estimated price including tax if is required. If you determine you need to submit your certificate to avoid sales tax, you can login and save your cart for later (button is below the Cart Summary). Submit your certificate as instructed in the above answer. (Or see Tax Exemptions under Payment Terms on our Policies page.) Once approved for exemption, you can login, load your saved cart, and make your purchase.
What methods of shipping do you offer?
Most orders are shipped by United Parcel Service (UPS) Ground. When checking out online you can request 3 Day Select, 2nd Day Air and Next Day Air for orders shipping in the US. If you have a UPS/ FedEx account we can ship “collect” on your account.
How much is U.S. shipping?
Shipping costs are determined by the following: weight, lengths, and exact zip codes. You can expect to pay anywhere from $15 – $30 dollars for UPS ground shipping.
How long will it take me to get my order
once placed, processed and shipped?
Most orders placed will be processed the following day. This applies to Next Day Air and any other expedited services. If you must have an order ship out SAME DAY, then please us prior to 12pm MST to determine whether or not we can fulfill your request. Here is a UPS Ground chart. On occasion, we may be temporarily out of stock on an item, in which case we will in good faith keep you updated and give an expected lead time for production.
All goods are sold FOB RWC shipping point. Goods may be shipped in a single shipment or multiple shipments at RWC’s discretion. RWC will attempt in good faith to meet estimated shipping dates but shall not be liable to Buyer for any loss or damages due to delay caused by RWC. We cannot guarantee that all product is available and ready to ship. We do our best to keep enough inventory on hand to fulfill anticipated orders although occasionally a large order will come in that depletes particular items. If in question, please call us at (801) 566- to check inventory status.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. Our international order policy is as follows: We will only ship through UPS. Shipping rates will be dependent on location. International shipments are subject to additional charges due to importation and customs fees. Rock West will not be responsible for reimbursement of these fees unless Rock West shipped erroneously. Please us at if you have any questions.
General Guidelines
Always wear safety glasses & a respirator when cutting composite materials since a fine dust is often generated in the process.
High (spindle) speed, low (travel per time) feed. This is a good rule of thumb when cutting composites with traditional tooling (e.g., drilling, milling etc.)
What Do You Use To Cut Carbon Fiber?
FOR TUBING:
We use high-speed wet saws with diamond abrasive round saw blades.
You could also use a tile saw, abrasive metal cut off wheels, or dremel with diamond cut off wheel.
Do not use a hack saw.
FOR PLATES AND SANDWICH PANELS:
We use a waterjet or CNC mill with carbide tools or diamond abrasive tools. Or we do straight cuts on panel saws with a diamond coated saw blade, dry cut vacuum evacuation or a large tile saw wet with diamond abrasive saw.
You could use a tile saw, abrasive metal cut off wheels, or dremel with diamond cut off wheel.
Do not use a hack saw.
FOR HOLES:
We use carbide drill bits.
You could use any metal drill bits or carbide drill bits.
Do not use concrete bits.
TIP: When cutting, if you are getting chunks, increase the tools speed, and slow down how much you are cutting at a time. Seeing just dust is good!
FOR DRY MATERIALS (FABRICS AND PREPREGS):
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For most materials we sell in their raw form (prior to cure, and or resin infusion), sharp scissors work very well. Electric shears will make short work of cutting dry materials. For aramids (e.g., Kevlar) we suggest you use finely serrated scissors.
Advantages Of Woven Fabric.
DRAPABILITY:
Some weaves will conform to compound curves better because of loose weaves and weave patterns. They also maintain adjacent fiber angles while conforming to complex shapes. (Unidirectional fibers are very difficult to conform to sharp inside and outside corner.) 2×2 twill is the most common for good drapability.
COSMETIC:
Some patterns just look better from a distance and are used to get that traditional carbon fiber look. Again, 2×2 twill is very common.
DURABILITY:
Woven fabrics resist edge fraying better than unidirectional fibers, especially when damaged. The woven tows will stop fraying as they pass under the perpendicular adjacent fibers. Some designers will place a single ply on the outside surface for durability and cosmetics.
THICKNESS BUILDUP:
Woven fabrics are thicker than unidirectional fibers, so they build thickness faster than unidirectional layups.
ISOTROPIC SIMPLICITY:
With each ply, you have an automatic isotropic layup with equal stiffness in two directions. (Isotropic: having a physical property which has the same value when measured in different directions.)
Disadvantages Of Woven Fabric.
PLY ORIENTATION:
With woven fabrics, there is always equal number of fibers running in one direction as is running in the perpendicular direction. This limits the customizable ply orientation by always including ply orientations in two directions for every ply.
FIBER CRIMPING:
As the fiber is woven, it passes over and under perpendicular fibers creating a slight bend in the fiber. As carbon fiber is strongest when it is straight, this crimping can cause a slight loss in bending stiffness. This is generally thought of as minimal, but in some structural applications, it can be a very important distinction.
RESIN CONTENT:
Woven fabrics will require a little more resin content to fill in all the gaps between the woven tows. Typically, it is about 5-10% more resin for woven fabrics. This can add weight and change the structural aspects of the part.
Trex® Composite Decking & Railing FAQs
On average, the estimated material cost for a composite deck runs from $15 - $30 per square foot (including substructure, decking, hardware and fasteners).* We recommend using our online cost calculator tool and guide to get an estimate for your project's cost. For a true cost estimate, reach out to a Trex retailer or TrexPro deck builder.
*Average price range excludes Trex Signature® decking, our luxury decking collection. Trex actual material costs and install costs can and will vary based on geographic area, site location, seasonality, design complexity, whether the product is stocked locally, and additional features such as stairs, angles, curves, lighting, etc. For most professionally installed projects, materials constitute up to one third of the total cost
If you've noticed any staining, scratching or fading over the years, it's likely you have early-generation decking. While our early-generation decking was groundbreaking for its time, spills and scuffs can still leave a mark. Newer-generation decking is easy to spot because of its resilience. Today's Trex decks resist blemishes with an innovative, high-performance shell that wraps around three sides of our deck boards.
Early Generation Trex Decking
Early-generation composite decking (Trex Origins®, Trex Accents®, Trex Profiles®, Trex Brasilia® and Trex Contours®) represented a breakthrough for low-maintenance and durability. While wood decking inevitably suffered splinters, warping and rotting, and required considerable maintenance, early-generation Trex never had to be stained and did not rot, warp or twist like wood. Periodic cleanings with a composite deck cleaner were far easier than the dreaded sanding and staining required to maintain wood decks. As the category evolved, this early-generation composite was offered in additional colors and with grain patterns that reflected a more natural appearance. Even so, all early generation wood-plastic composites, whether Trex or a competitor's product, were not stain, scratch or mold-free, and did fade slightly in color as they naturally weathered. To address these issues, Trex introduced a new kind of high-performance decking in . As of , Trex no longer manufactures any early-generation composite decking.
Newer Generation Trex Decking
Newer generation Trex deck boards ( Trex Signature®, Trex Transcend® Lineage™, Trex Transcend®, Trex Enhance®, Trex Select®, Trex Contour®) are manufactured with a high-performance shell that wraps around three sides of the composite board to protect it from the elements, providing resistance to fading, staining, scratching and mold. In addition to improved performance, the shell technology offers:
- Easier maintenance: requiring only an occasional cleaning with soap and water or a pressure washer.
- Enhanced aesthetics: richer, long-lasting color palettes and natural wood grain patterns.
- Incremental warranty protection: 25-, 35-, and 50-year limited warranties for most products.
Trex materials come with specific warranties, but it doesn’t mean they won’t last longer. When Trex launched its original product in it came with a 10-year warranty. This product is still installed in many homes and looks great after more than 25 years.
There have been many improvements in our current products and our material now is a coextruded shell that protects the board from the weather, making them last even longer than our early materials.
Lowe’s stocks a selection of Trex decking and railing products, designed to elevate your outdoor spaces with style, durability, and innovation. From the timeless appeal of Enhance Basics in Saddle, Clam Shell, and Tide Pool to the sophisticated beauty of Enhance Naturals in Foggy Wharf, Toasted Sand, and Honey Grove, every option reflects the cutting edge of outdoor design. In-store, you’ll find Trex Enhance Railing in Classic White, Charcoal Black, and Saddle, as well as 12’ White Trex Trim and Trex Hidden Fasteners, thoughtfully sized for 50 or 200 sq. ft. projects. For even more tailored solutions, additional profiles and items are available in-store at the Pro Desk or at Lowes.com ensuring you have access to everything you need to bring your vision to life.
Lowe’s also offers Trex railing components, empowering you to create a seamless, polished finish. Explore 4x4 Trex Post Sleeves, Post Sleeve Caps, Skirts, and Railing Kits, which include top and bottom rails, hardware, and modern black aluminum balusters. Additionally, Lowe’s stocks color-matched deck screws in Toasted Sand, Clam Shell, Foggy Wharf, and Saddle, along with Trex Hidden Fasteners for secure, professional results. With these innovative products at your fingertips, Lowe’s makes it easier than ever to build the outdoor space of your dreams—designed to endure, inspire, and enhance your lifestyle for years to come.
Yes, a groove can be routed into a Trex decking board using the Trex Groove Cutter/Router, which can be purchased online. The Trex-branded router is specifically designed for creating grooves in Trex and other composite decking materials, ensuring a precise and clean cut for Hidden Fasteners. If you don't have access to the Trex- branded router, you can also use any 5/16” cut height carbide router bit with a ¼” shank, which is compatible for routing grooves into Trex boards.
Using the right tools, such as the Trex Groove Cutter or the recommended carbide router bit, ensures the groove is accurately milled without damaging the material. The groove will be perfectly sized for Trex's Hidden Fastener system, providing a sleek, fastener-free appearance on your deck. Whether using the Trex-branded router or a compatible bit, it's essential to follow proper cutting techniques to avoid overheating and ensure a clean, smooth finish. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for optimal results when routing Trex decking.
When choosing fireplaces and fire pits, there are various options, each with distinct benefits and considerations. Here are our recommendations for safe installation on Trex decking:
For gas-burning fire pits/fireplaces, these are typically installed by cutting around the Trex decking, not directly on top of it. A fire-resistant material is placed underneath, and a protective stone wall or similar material is used to contain the fire and shield the decking from heat. Gas fireplaces should not be placed directly on Trex decking without proper protection. Propane tables are generally safe, as they don't produce downward heat. Trex Outdoor Furniture also offers propane tables to complement their furniture collections.
For wood-burning fire pits, these should not be placed directly on Trex decking unless a heat barrier is used. While we don’t have a specific recommendation for heat barriers, many are available on the market. It's important to note that Trex can soften at temperatures as low as 176°F, and the intense heat or embers from a wood-burning fire can damage the decking.
When it comes to adding a rug or mat to your Trex deck, we highly recommend selecting a product crafted from natural fibers and materials, such as jute, sisal, or bamboo. These options not only enhance the beauty of your outdoor space but also complement the durability of Trex decking beautifully.
It's important to exercise caution with rugs made from viscose material, as the dyes used can sometimes bleed, leading to potential staining that may be challenging to remove. Additionally, we advise being mindful of rugs made from plastic (polypropylene) or those with rubber backing, as they have the potential to draw out the colorant from the decking itself. This color loss can sometimes be irreversible, and we want to ensure your deck remains as stunning as it is functional.
Trex high-performance decking and railing products combine low-maintenance upkeep and design-minded style—all backed by our 25-, 35- and 50-year limited warranties. The protective shell technology means all of our deck boards resist staining, fading, and cracking, are resistant to scratching with Signature decking our most scratch-resistant board. Beyond that, Trex offers a variety of high-performance railing choices to meet different levels of style, performance and affordability.
Decking Lines
Luxury: Trex Signature® Decking
Distinctively durable and luxuriously crafted with eco-friendly composite made out of recycled and reclaimed materials, Trex Signature decking sets a new standard for style in outdoor living. Offering homeowners and designers alike a new design material crafted with the most realistic wood grain that replicates the elegance of exotic hardwood, all backed by a 50-year warranty. Signature is Trex's most scratch-resistant decking board.
Best: Trex Transcend® Lineage™ and Trex Transcend® Decking
These decking lines offer the broadest range of decking colors and finishes. Engineered with a proprietary shell technology that protects against fading, staining, scratching, mold and mildew, our best decking lines are backed by a 50-year warranty. Plus, Trex Transcend Lineage uses heat-mitigating technology that makes it our coolest decking yet.*
*Although Trex Transcend Lineage is designed to be cooler than most other composite decking products of a similar color, on a hot sunny day, it will get hot. On hot days, care should be taken to avoid extended contact between exposed skin and the deck surface, especially with young children and those with special needs.
Better: Trex Select® Decking
A 35-year warranty backs our Trex Select decking line. The fade and stain protection, as well as enhanced mold and mildew resistance, make maintenance simple. The perfect pairing of price and minimal maintenance, Select is a simple choice. Note: Select boards are slightly thinner than all Transcend and Enhance decking. These decking lines should not be combined to avoid tripping hazards.
Good: Trex Enhance® Decking
With its nature-inspired, authentic wood-grain appearance and lightweight, scalloped profile for simple handling, this collection offers the beauty of wood with the ease of composite. Available in a variety of monochromatic and multi-tonal shades and backed by a 25-year warranty.
Railing Lines
Best: Trex Signature® Railing
Trex Signature aluminum railing offers a minimalist style with maximum strength. This railing is compatible with four unique infill options: glass, mesh, rod rail, and square balusters. Trex Signature also performs equally well in residential or commercial settings. Plus, aluminum is 100% recyclable. A 25-year warranty backs Trex Signature railing.
Better: Trex Transcend® Railing
Trex Transcend railing offers nearly limitless opportunities to mix and match profiles and colors for a customized look. Our highest-performance railing option offers more colors in more component profiles than any other Trex railing line.
Good: Trex Select® Railing
This railing line is our most affordable high-performance system. Available in two configurations, Classic and T-Rail, it is the simple choice for your backyard.
We offer a wide array of railing options with varying levels of customization to create the outdoor space you've been dreaming of.
Trex Signature® railing is made from powder-coated aluminum. With this collection, you can choose square aluminum balusters, mesh infill, glass infill, or rod rails. These top and bottom rails and infills are also compatible with our composite railing posts.
Trex Transcend® railing is a composite crown-top rail with the option of using a square composite baluster or round aluminum baluster. Transcend has a variety of composite color options for the top and bottom rails to match any deck design.
Trex Select® railing is a composite rail in Classic White with two top rail options, as well as options for round aluminum balusters and square composite balusters. The Classic Select configuration features round, black aluminum balusters with a simple white top rail. The new T-rail configuration uses a T-shaped top rail and is available with round black aluminum balusters or square white composite balusters.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Composite Rock Slice Manufacturer. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
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