For many homeowners in the Pittsburgh area, there is nothing more satisfying than a home that is well taken care of. This desire often leads people to undertake home improvement projects. When a Butler County resident decides to start a construction project at his or her residence, there is an assumption that the products used in such an endeavor will be of a certain quality. When a construction product is defective, it can be disappointing. In some cases it can be dangerous as well.

Many homeowners improve their abode by building a deck. Recently, a manufacturer of wood-alternative decking announced that it will replace defective decking sold in a total of 16 states. Some of the decking manufactured and sold by Trex Company, Inc., began to flake. In several instances, the decking became so weakened by the flaking that the affected boards broke. It is unclear whether anyone was injured as a result of the defective decking.

In addition to replacing the defective decking, as a result of a class action lawsuit that was filed in the matter, the manufacturer is also paying for a portion of the cost associated with the labor to replace the construction product.

While in this case the defective product was not sold in the state of Pennsylvania, this serves as a good reminder that products off all types can be defective. Consumers should be aware that defective products can prompt products liability lawsuits. Because these cases are often complex, it is best to consult a lawyer who handles such matters sooner rather than later.

Source: Building Online, “Trex Reminds Consumers of Replacement Program for Defective Decking Sold in Western U.S. between 2002 and 2007,” July 16, 2013