The most important decision to be made when installing a new deck is arguably the choice of materials. Today, there is a long list of options available including variations of different woods, metals, fiberglass, and man-made materials. Ultimately, different materials determine a large portion of the budget, the design possibilities, and the long-term durability of the deck.?
Here are 5 different types of decking materials to consider for the future:
1). Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is one of the least expensive and most commonly used materials for decks today. This type of wood is chemically treated to protect against rot, mold, and insects. It is a great budget option, costing roughly $2.00 – $10 per square foot. One thing to keep in mind is that this type of material usually consists of lower-grade pine or fir that can be prone to crack or warp over time.
2). Wood Composite
Warp-resistant, insect-resistant, and splinter-free, composite materials are taking over a huge segment of the decking material industry. Made from wood fibers and plastic, this material looks like wood nearly feels like wood, but does not have the maintenance requirements of real wood. The list of practical reasons to choose a composite material is extensive including its lightweight properties, its decades-long durability, and its environmental friendliness.
What?s the catch? Composite materials can often fade in color from harsh exposure to the sun and given its qualities, refinishing is not an option.
3). Cedar
Cedarwood offers a very natural and unique look with the durability and strength to make it a great choice for a deck. This type of wood is less commonly available, but it is often sought after for its natural resistance against rotting, insects, and the elements. The lifespan of this wood can easily reach 20 years with light maintenance and occasional re-sealing/re-staining.
4). Aluminum Decking
The most notable quality of aluminum decking is that it is essentially maintenance-free. This type of material offers a modern, contemporary look and can have a lifetime of up to 50 years! Often used for homes near bodies of water, aluminum decking is resistant to rust, rot, mold, mildew, and warping. The cost of this material is on the higher end, but if durability and longevity are what you?re after, aluminum decking is a very good option.
5). Fiberglass
The non-porous nature of fiberglass material makes it extremely weather-resistant. Combined with its durability and unmatched strength, fiberglass is one of the most resilient materials to use for a deck. Fiberglass is moderately priced and can offer a wide selection of colors & designs.
Questions about home renovations or repairs? Give us a call or send us a message to schedule a free on-site consultation. J.G?s Home Improvement is licensed in the state of West Virginia. We have proudly served the eastern panhandle for over 20 years! Located in Charles Town, our team is always available to respond quickly and reliably.