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

The Main Types Of Decking Material To Consider The longest lasting deck material is plastic decking as much of it has a warranty of 50 years. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) decking is similar to PVC decking in that it is 100% plastic. It also tries to replicate the look and feel of natural wood with wood colors and wood grain patterns.

Best Composite Decking Materials & Options

That means you don’t have to worry about sanding or staining, which makes vinyl decking almost maintenance-free. Lumber grades tell you the number of knots, imperfections, and the straightness of the wood grain. At Decks & Docks, we only sell the higher grades of lumber, which means fewer knots, consistent boards, and longer life. At Decks & Docks, our top choice for many projects is pressure-treated Southern Yellow Pine.

The most common wood for decking includes cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated.In addition, these boards can be recycled after use which gives them a smaller environmental impact than wood boards.While this may require more time and effort on your part, it can save thousands of dollars in labor costs.However, like any material, it has both pros and cons that should be considered before making a decision.These decks are not directly attached to the home but instead built as a floating deck level accessible via a path or walkway.None of us wants to think the exotic hardwood used on our deck contributes to the warming of the planet.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Deck Type

The main advantage of this design is that the deck borrows stability from the house. 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 https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/view/70318701/clear-view-builders-building-dreams-inside-and-out-in-sacramento 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. Additionally, many home improvement stores offer financing options for purchasing materials, making it easier to spread out payments over time. Another way to cut costs is by choosing alternative materials such as composite or PVC decking. Another consideration when choosing composite decking is the installation process. While some homeowners choose to tackle this project themselves, others opt for professional installation due to its complexity. Unlike wood, plastic decking requires little maintenance and can keep a uniform look for many years. Plastic composite decking combines wood fibers with a durable plastic film. Typically accessed by a path or walkway, detached decks are sometimes called “floating decks.” Often located near a pool or gazebo, these decks are not attached to the house. It is the easiest type of deck to build and is often cheaper than attached decks. The downside of this type of deck is that it requires periodic maintenance and is more prone to moisture damage than elevated decks. PVC is a versatile material used for pipes, wiring, and even decks.