Choosing the right material for your deck can be difficult if you don’t know where to start. Even harder is choosing a material that meets your aesthetic and construction requirements. The first step in deciding on decking materials is knowing the pros and cons of each one. This way, you’ll be able to make an educated decision to have the deck you always wanted. To help you decide better, we’ve put together this guide with helpful tips on different deck materials to get you started.
Cedar
Cedar has a warm, welcoming look that can be enhanced with stain or sealant. It is lightweight, so it can be carried and installed by one person, and it also resists warping and shrinking—a potential problem with composite wood. Cedar is also naturally insect-resistant, so you can enjoy your deck season after season without worrying about termites or other destructive pests. However, cedar does require annual maintenance to ensure that it lasts as long as possible, according to Soto Bay Construction cedar is one of the coolest woods because it doesn’t absorb the heat and keeps your feet cool even in the summer.
Pressure Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is a traditional option for decks and one of the most common materials used for budget decks. It is a softwood, meaning it’s not only affordable but also easy to work with. It is also infused with chemicals that protect it from rot and insects and exposure to moisture. Treated lumber comes in various grades and levels of decay resistance, so be sure to choose a lumber grade appropriate for your project’s exposure level. Pressure-treated wood may show surface checking when exposed to sun and weather, but this will diminish over time as the wood weathers to its natural color. Generally speaking, this wood can last up to 40 years before necessary replacement. However, this depends on the climate and how well it’s maintained.
Aluminium
Aluminium has gained popularity in recent years and is considered one of the best due to its affordability and durability. It’s also eco-friendly because it doesn’t require any maintenance like painting every few years, making it perfect for people who don’t have time to worry about the upkeep of their outdoor areas. Aluminium decks are also very lightweight, so they’re easy to move around if necessary – this makes them ideal if you’re renting an apartment or house without much space outside but still want some entertainment in your home.
Tropical Hardwoods Tropical Hardwoods like Ipe and Garapa are typically considered the most durable. They are also one of the most expensive materials, but they have advantages. Hardwoods are extremely dense, making them very heavy, adding to their durability. They also have natural oils that protect them against moisture damage. Because these woods contain natural oils that resist moisture and rot, they do not need topical coatings or finishes to keep them in good condition.
Conclusion
Picking out the best decking materials can be difficult, considering there’s such a wide variety from which to choose. However, hopefully, this post has helped you narrow down your search and give you the knowledge you need to buy with confidence. You’ll be on the path to a beautiful new deck in no time!
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