Best Decking Material Options 2024

How to Choose Between Cedar, Pressure Treated Wood & Composite The main advantage of this design is that the deck borrows stability from the house. https://www.startus.cc/company/clear-view-builders-construction It also requires less labor and materials and is therefore cost-effective. The main disadvantage to an attached deck is that improper installation or maintenance could create structural damage to your home. Water accumulation or poor weight balance could affect the house. Also, since it is an attached structure, it may require code-approved railings and stairways. The cost of decking material ranges from $2–$45 per square foot. Pressure-treated wood is the least costly at $2–$5 per square foot, while composite decking costs between $12 and $22, and aluminum/metal costs between $15 and $20 per square foot. Attached decks come in all shapes and sizes, including square, rectangular, L-shaped, U-shaped, or custom-designed. They can also lead to fun outdoor features like a pergola or gazebo.

Pros and Cons of Wood Decking

Known for its natural beauty, cedar decks are resistant to bugs and offer excellent durability. However, being a softwood, cedar can be prone to damage if not properly maintained. Plastic and wood composite decking work well for some people, but there are also reasons why it doesn’t work for everyone. However, while this wood is inexpensive, it does require constant maintenance like coats of stain and sealer and pressure washing to keep it looking its best. Also, decks made from pressure-treated wood will require sanding to keep them splinter-free. Even so, these boards will crack, warp, and shrink over time and exposure to harsh weather.

Types of Decking Material

PT comes in green, tan, or brown but can be stained to suit your desired palette. To help make your choice, go to a diversified lumberyard or deck yard (the options at home centers are limited) and look at some samples. Have a rough idea of the square footage of your deck and get some costs to compare. Compare the pros and cons of installing a solid concrete deck footing using a cardboard tube or engineered forms. The clear heart grade is more durable than the other redwood grades because of its high-resistance to decay. Redwood is a soft wood and weathers to a yellowish-red very quickly.

Custom planters are another great option if you’re looking to incorporate greenery into your design.However, it is worth noting that Ipe is the most expensive wood option available.However, these materials are heavy, so they are not ideal for raised or elevated structures.Using freshwater-only lumber on an oceanside dock would spell disaster in just a few short years or maybe even months.

In short, decks are complex load-bearing structures that most often require structural engineering, plans, and permits. Composite decking is the best decking material for several reasons. It's resistant to rot, insect damage, and weathering, which means it will last longer and require less maintenance over time. One of the most popular green decking options is composite decking made from recycled plastic and wood fibers. Not only does this material divert waste from landfills, but it also requires minimal upkeep and lasts much longer than traditional lumber. Other environmentally conscious choices include bamboo, reclaimed wood, and even aluminum.