Decks: The Ultimate Guide To Materials, Options, And Approaches

Deck Materials Composite & Wood This increases the carbon footprint and doesn’t necessarily translate to a higher-quality deck board. Below we compare the costs, durability and appearances of wood and composite decking. If neither option sounds right for you, there’s also synthetic PVC decking, which we discuss later in the guide. Pressure-treated wood is an essential material for outdoor construction projects, offering unparalleled durability and resistance to decay. Composite metal floor decks are strong and lightweight and can have deep or shallow profiles depending on the end requirement. The three common types of composite floor decks are 1.5-inch, 2-inch, and 3-inch composite decks.

Best Pool Decking Options and Materials

Additionally, some buyers have issues with how loggers source these woods, as most of them come from endangered tropical rainforests. If you’re environmentally conscious, this is likely not the deck material for you. Learn the pros and cons of some of the most popular deck materials. Decks are sometimes built around permanent aboveground swimming pools to provide access to the pool and a place to relax at the water’s edge. While metal decking can be more expensive, it’s an excellent choice for areas prone to extreme weather conditions. The cost of composite decking can vary widely — as much as $5 to $13 per square foot.

Tropical hardwoods such as ipe, cumaru, and red balau are prized for their exceptional durability and rich colors.There are many options for choosing the best wood for your deck, like pressure treated pine, cedar, redwood or mahogany.The anti-rot treatment once included arsenic, but since 2004 relies on less poisonous agents, such as copper, which poses a health hazard only if burned.

Which decking requires the least amount of maintenance?

If any concerns arise during an inspection or maintenance check, it’s recommended to seek professional consultation from a licensed contractor who can assess the situation further. Sealant application is another important step because it helps protect against moisture penetration by forming a barrier on the surface of your deck. Alternatively, you may want to consider applying a sealant or stain that contains waterproofing agents.

The Different Types of Decks

You can access this deck type through French doors, sliding doors, or standard exterior doors. Most often, attached decks are next to the kitchen, dining room, family room, or primary bedroom. When planning to build a deck, there are many factors that need consideration before choosing the right size. To truly create an oasis in your backyard, consider incorporating comfortable seating options such as lounges or dining sets into your outdoor furniture plan. Adding greenery like potted plants or flowers can liven up any space while providing privacy from neighbors. Decks are often made of wood, but Browse around this site they can also be constructed using other materials such as composite decking, vinyl, or even concrete. A major perk of this type of deck is that it adds dimension and visual appeal. They can be custom-designed to include a range of sizes and shapes. Multi-level decks are usually more expensive to construct than single-tier decks due to extra materials and labor.