So you’re thinking about building or upgrading your deck—exciting! But with so many materials out there, what’s a person to do? Should you go for the classic, timeless wood or one of the new composite options?
No sweat; we’ve got you. Let’s just jump right in and get into our top 10 decking materials that will show us what works best for your home. And let’s admit that if all becomes too overwhelming, professional deck builders are just a phone call away to help you decide what is the best thing to do.
Pressure-Treated Wood: That Inexpensive Classic
If you are looking to save some cash, then the pressure-treated wood might just be what you are looking for. It is among the general recommendations, given the fact that it acts as relatively cost-effective and accessible in most markets.
But what it is really good for is resisting insects and decay. As a matter of fact, it does need a bit of love from time to time because of the chemicals it is treated with.
It does require sealing and staining on a regular basis if one desires to keep the good look and moisture damage at bay. It is the kind of plant that you always forget to water, but it’s definitely kinda worth it.
Is this right for you? If you’re pinching pennies and don’t mind a bit of maintenance, then pressure-treated wood can provide that classic, natural look without spending all your money on it.
Cedar Decking: The Natural Beauty of Nature with a Side of Maintenance
Cedar is kind of like somebody who is so stylish on their own that they don’t make extra effort. It’s natural decay- and insect-resistant, and the grain and color are unmatched.
That said, it does require a lot of maintenance—namely, refinishing every year to preserve all those looks. This one tends to be a little fussy compared to some other types out there, but if you’re into that totally natural, woodsy vibe, it’s got you covered.
Is it for you? If aesthetics tops your list and you’re willing to do a bit of work to keep your deck looking good, then cedar really shines as an attractive, long-spread option.
Redwood Decking: The Durable but Pricey Option
Deck materials to redwood are what a high-end luxury car is to automotive transport. Elegant, resilient, and costly. It’s really resistant, pretty much like cedar, to decay and insects, but it is more rugged.
What’s the downside? Well, it’s pretty darn expensive, especially if you’re not living on the West Coast, where redwood is far more accessible.
Is Redwood right for you? If you want high-quality work that will last practically forever, then Redwood is an excellent choice—provided your budget can handle it.
Composite Decking: Low Maintenance, High Durability
Composite decking has certainly come a long way since its early days on the market. Mixed with polymers from recovered plastics with wood fibers to provide a wood look but a lot less work in maintenance, there are no stainings or sealings, just periodic cleanings.
But remember, the darker colors heat up just fine in the sun. You could have a problem with mold in the shadiest and dampest of areas. Is this the perfect choice for you?
If you want the natural appearance of wood without the maintenance nightmares, then you want composite decking. It is durable, stands up to abuse, is easy to care for, and comes in a wide variety of styles and colors.
The Ultimate Sensation In Water Resistant Decking—PVC
Probably the superhero among decking materials, being completely synthetic, impervious to water, and rot-resistant, PVC will be perfect for installations in very heavy moisture regions that could cause problems for other materials.
It’s lightweight, easy to install, and comes in a variety of colors. On the downside, it just doesn’t give you that same woodsy, warm feeling that a wood deck does naturally, and under the sun, it can get really hot when you touch it with your bare feet.
Is this for you? If you live in a humid climate or near water, PVC decking can be the perfect choice – strong, low maintenance, and impervious to species.
Tropical Hardwoods: The Exotic, Long-Lasting Choice
If you really want the best of the best, exotics like Ipe, Cumaru, and Tigerwood are in a league of their own. They are very hard-wearing, very insect-resistant, and uniquely beautiful in their own raw way, but do beware: they ring in among the top dollar and take constant oiling to preserve that rich color.
Is that right for you? If you’re willing to pay a premium for something beautiful and durable, and you’re okay with a little more maintenance, tropical hardwoods are your best bet.
Aluminum Decking: Lightweight and Super-Strong
Into a dark horse in the deck world: lightweight, does not rust, requires virtually no maintenance, is fire-resistant, and can be recycled. However, it does not possess the inherent warmth that a piece of wood does, and it can be pretty slippery when wet.
Does this sound right for you? If you are looking for a modern, rugged, low-maintenance surface that is more durable than traditional wood, then maybe aluminum is right for you.
Bamboo Decking: Stylish, Durable, And Green
Of a lot of “green” natural products on this list, bamboo is probably the most likely oddity. It is, in fact, a durable, sustainably grown material with an entirely unique look. The downside: it scratches quite easily and needs periodic maintenance to stay in top form.
Is this right for you? If sustainability is a high consideration, this may be the stylish green for your deck or patio—one that best makes a statement.
Recycled Plastic Decking: The Green Choice
This one is the greenest since it’s made from 100% pre-used materials. Tough, requiring very little pampering, amazingly resistant to the elements. However, like all other synthetics, it has a bit of an artificial look, and light colors do fade.
Does it fit the bill for you? If you are dedicated to going green and need low maintenance, then recycled plastic decking is the sure thing that gently treads on the environment.
Modified Wood: Improved Performance, Natural Looks
Modified wood is wood that has been treated to result in better durability and resistance to the elements but in a clear attempt to do so without losing its natural appearance. Since this is relatively new, long-term performance is still being watched, but its popularity is growing for combining natural aesthetics with performance.
Is that right for you? If you are the type that really wants the best of both worlds—natural wood and more durability—then modified wood may just be right for you. It’s more expensive, but with that increased potential for better service life and looks, how can you go wrong?
Conclusion: The Best Choice for Your Home
In the end, the best material you can choose for your deck should be what best suits your specific needs, choices, and budget. Classic beauties like wood or materials that create gorgeous effects with low maintenance are all available, and there is something for everyone.
And don’t forget to call professional deck builders to get advice on your decisions to have a beautiful deck that is built to last.
