How to Choose the Right Materials for Your Deck
Maybe you’re installing a beautiful new deck for the first time, or perhaps you are replacing an old, worn-down one. Whatever the reason, your deck has to be amazing. It is a place to entertain, relax, and even eat meals when the weather’s nice. Your deck is exposed to more than just human activity. It Is exposed to the elements, and depending on where you live, that could be heat, rain, snow, slush, and UV rays.
It’s important that when you install your deck, you use the right materials for the job, and hire reliable deck contractors to make sure the job is done properly. The experts can also help you decide on which material is the best for your home, they will take everything into consideration, and give you their best advice. Back in the day, people used to believe that you could only use wood, but now there are many more options. When making a choice for materials, it’s important to not only factor in the climate but also insect resistance, durability, budget, and how easy it is to work with. Here’s how you can make the right choices regarding the materials for your deck.
Aluminum or Metal
Many decks are built in places where there is a lot of moisture. For instance, a pool could be nearby, a built-in hot tub, or even a lake. If your deck will be built near water or is at risk of getting wet regularly, it might be a good idea to use metal decking materials. These materials will not rot or fade when they are exposed to moisture.
If it gets very hot where you live, then aluminum is also your best bet. It might not seem like it, but aluminum is cooler than wood. If you like to walk around in your bare feet, then that can be a bonus. Also, insects that like to make their home in wood will stay away. It is a bir pricey to pay for, so you must fit it into your budget. However, it’s long-lasting and will withstand the effects of water.
Pressure-Treated Wood
This is the most popular decking material and with good reason. Pressure-Treated wood is the most affordable decking, and it’s relatively durable as well. It will hold any stain and can be treated to resist bugs and rot.
However, to get the cost, you have to accept some drawbacks. For one, it is susceptible to shrinking, cracking, warping, and swelling due to climate and weather. You will likely have to replace boards regularly, and your deck will require regular maintenance to stay strong and maintain its look. Maintenance will include power washing once or twice a year and staining it every few years.
Redwood or Cedar
When it comes to using wood for decking, redwood, and cedar are common choices. Either wood indeed provides a touch of luxury and class to any deck. The good thing about these woods is that they are naturally protected from the elements due to the oils that the woods produce.
However, you will still need to provide special care because even though they have some resistance to the weather, they will wear down over time. Therefore, you will need to apply a waterproofing formula regularly, which might mean every year if you want it to keep its look and strength. Also, since it’s untreated wood, it will lose its color, so make sure to stain it every couple of years.
Plastic
While not very popular, a plastic deck is certainly something you can choose. It’s light but durable and won’t rot or wear down. It is waterproof and weatherproof. That said, a plastic deck does not resemble a traditional deck, so if you like the wood look, this isn’t your option. You have to watch out for sagging or weaknesses in the hinges, as plastic is not as strong as wood. You will have to put down runners or rugs because plastic decks are known for being slippery. The price is usually in the middle, which might make plastic an attractive choice for you.
Composites
If you ask any custom deck builder, they’ll tell you that composite decking is the highest-quality material you can buy. It is the most weather-resistant, and very little maintenance is involved. It is not hard to install and provides great value to your home.
That said, some traditionalist homeowners have expressed their displeasure with the look of composite decking in comparison to natural wood. Composite decking is a mixture of wood and plastic; it has a more modern and sleek appearance due to its durability and low maintenance properties. Therefore, those who like the rustic feel of a traditional deck should not choose this option. However, those who are seeking longevity and a contemporary look should consider composite decking sourced from a reputable supplier like NexGEN Decking. Such innovation can truly transform your deck into a sophisticated outdoor space. Furthermore, techniques and technology are constantly changing and evolving, so sometime in the near future, there could be composite decking that simulates real wood.
Concrete
Your deck needs to be solid and durable. That means that concrete will be an important material in its construction. You will anchor your posts in concrete so that it won’t shake or collapse. Make Sure that you make your post holes deep enough so that the concrete is protected from the harm that can come from the freezing and thawing that comes with the changing of the seasons. Too many DIYers cut corners and do not dig deep enough, only for them to have to replace their concrete prematurely.
Your new deck will only be as strong and stable as the materials used. There are many options, and you need to choose your home and situation. Use these tips to balance budget and performance to create the deck you’ve always wanted.
