House Works: Your questions on composite decks, the best roofing, drywall cracks

Composite deck materials
Q: Is composite deck lumber really better than wood? I know that keeping a wood deck looking good involves a lot of work, but I’ve heard about problems with composite materials, too. Besides, I hear composites can be much more expensive than wood.
Composite deck lumber like these Trex boards is a blend of reclaimed plastic and recycled wood fibers. There’s no need for finishing composites. Just keep them clean.
A: I’ve lived with a wooden deck and compo