Free samples are a practical tool for UK consumers considering composite decking or siding, allowing direct comparison of textures, colours, and finishes before committing to a purchase. Several manufacturers offer complimentary sample programmes, typically involving an online request form and delivery of small boards or brochures. This article details the available sample offers, the request processes, and key product features based on information from official brand sources.
Composite Decking Sample Programmes
A number of brands provide free sample packs to help potential customers evaluate their composite decking products. The process generally involves selecting a limited number of samples, completing a brief online form, and waiting for delivery.
Mu Boo Composite Decking
Mu Boo offers free composite decking samples to customers in the UK. The company states that up to three samples can be selected via their online form. Once the request is submitted, samples are typically dispatched within three to four working days. The company emphasises the durability and finished appearance of their boards, which are marketed as an affordable alternative to solid wood.
COOWIN Composite Decking and Wall Cladding
COOWIN provides free samples for both composite decking and composite wall cladding products. Their sample programme is designed to address customer concerns about composite materials by allowing hands-on evaluation of textures and colours. The company notes that they will contact the requester within 24 hours of submission and advises checking spam folders for their reply. Alongside physical samples, COOWIN also offers brochures containing product features, project examples, and installation instructions, as well as a USB flash drive with electronic copies of images, videos, and manuals.
Millboard Decking and Siding
Millboard offers free samples of its composite decking and siding. The programme delivers up to three free samples, along with a complimentary brochure, free of charge within the lower-48 US states. For customers outside the UK, Millboard states it may pass the request data to a local distributor to fulfil the order. The company highlights several product features, including resistance to mould and fungus, use of recycled materials and renewable biopolymers, moisture resistance due to a non-porous composition, integrated UV stabilisers, high slip resistance from a pliable Lastane layer, and low maintenance requirements (no staining or oiling needed).
TruNorth Decking
TruNorth Decking offers a limited-time promotion for four free composite decking samples. The samples are delivered without charge, and no billing information is required. The company claims their boards are not filled with wood sawdust like some competitors, and feature a proprietary rice hull moisture blocking formulation on a fully encapsulated, two-sided heat-blocking board. They state their decking is up to 30% cooler than most other composite brands and offers enhanced slip resistance with a natural wood grain look. TruNorth also mentions having retailers in the customer's area who can assist with delivery or connect them with deck builders.
NewTechWood
NewTechWood provides free samples for its composite decking and related products. The company’s website includes a dedicated "Free Samples" section, though the specific request process and sample limits are not detailed in the provided information. The brand offers a range of products, including composite decking boards in various series (Magellan, Cortes, Monarch, Bell), composite deck tiles, and siding cladding products such as All Weather, European, Shadowline, and Board and Batten options.
TimberTech
TimberTech offers free samples of its composite decking, allowing customers to choose up to four samples. The samples are shipped free of charge. The company organises its product range by colour families: Tan (sunny and sandy hues), Gray (silver and stormy shades), and Brown (rich woodland tones). TimberTech also highlights that many of its decking collections have a Class B Flame Spread Rating and/or WUI (Wildland-Urban Interface) Compliance, which is important for customers in fire-prone areas. The brand positions itself as a premium decking option, emphasising authentic wood looks and high performance.
Key Considerations for UK Consumers
When requesting free samples, consumers should be aware of a few practical points derived from the source information.
- Delivery Times: Most brands indicate a standard delivery window. For example, Mu Boo states samples arrive within three to four working days. Other brands may have different timelines, which are typically confirmed after the request is submitted.
- Geographic Restrictions: While some brands explicitly service the UK (e.g., Mu Boo), others like Millboard note that requests from outside the lower-48 US states may be handled by local distributors. UK-based consumers should check the specific brand’s website for confirmation of UK delivery.
- Sample Limits: The number of free samples offered varies by brand. Limits range from three samples (Mu Boo, Millboard) to four samples (TruNorth, TimberTech). These limits are designed to manage shipping costs while providing sufficient material for evaluation.
- Additional Resources: Beyond the physical samples, several brands provide supplementary materials. Brochures are common, offering detailed product information and installation guidance. COOWIN’s inclusion of a USB drive with digital resources is a notable example of providing comprehensive pre-purchase information.
- No Obligation: The sample programmes are explicitly presented as no-obligation offers. Brands like TruNorth state there is no requirement to purchase and no billing information is needed, aligning with the standard practice for free sample promotions.
Conclusion
UK consumers have several options for obtaining free composite decking and siding samples. Brands such as Mu Boo, COOWIN, Millboard, TruNorth, NewTechWood, and TimberTech all offer sample programmes, typically requiring an online request and providing delivery of small boards or brochures. These samples allow for direct assessment of product characteristics like colour, texture, and finish, which is crucial for making an informed decision for home improvement projects. Consumers are advised to visit the official brand websites for the most current details on sample availability, request processes, and delivery terms.