Your Guide to All Types of Decks: How To Choose a Deck for Your Home

A Guide to the Most Common Types of Decks Wood flour is the key difference between wood-plastic composite (WPC), top left, and PVC decking, bottom left. Wood flour can attract mold, leading some manufacturers to “co-extrude” a hard plastic cap on composite to at least one side of the plank. PVC always has a cap, and less expensive brands of composite have none at all. This is a traditional style of deck and often called a wraparound porch. Unlike a porch, though, your deck can have varying shapes and levels. It is resistant to decay, but relatively soft and quick to weather. You don’t have to rely on the big box stores for your deck products. There are specialty lumberyards in most cities that carry species of lumber that you cannot find at the big box stores. Deforestation and forest destruction is a leading cause of carbon pollution, causing 20% of total greenhouse gas emissions. None of us wants to think the exotic hardwood used on our deck contributes to the warming of the planet.

The best decking materials for your yard will be durable and fit both your budget and style.Trellis partitions provide both shade and privacy while enhancing the visual appeal of your deck.A major perk of this type of deck is that it adds dimension and visual appeal.They offer a versatile space that can be used for various purposes, such as outdoor dining, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings.

Deck Material Options

For a seamless and unified appearance, you have the option to construct a deck that surrounds either an in-ground or above-ground pool. However, it is important to ensure compliance with local safety regulations pertaining to swimming pools, such as the installation of a fence or gate around the pool area. Given the proximity to water, it is advisable to select a slip-resistant decking material. Opting for composite or Trex decking materials guarantees durability, while applying a sealant to wooden decks can enhance their longevity. The “best” decking material will vary according to each person’s needs. If you are on a strict budget, you should consider a low-cost option like pressure treated wood or cedar. Composite decking looks a lot like naturalwood and comes in a wide variety of colors. Choose from our in-stock or custom composite decking boards, which both come with extended warranties against cracking, splitting, fading and more. If you prefer a natural look, cedar is one of the best decking materials on the market. It adjusts to moisture in the air around it, making it less likely to warp or crack during colder temperatures. Not only do they add value to your home, but they also provide an outdoor space perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying the fresh air. Wraparound decks, often referred to as wraparound porches, provide ample outdoor space that can be accessed from multiple entry points in your home. Unlike a porch, a wraparound deck offers versatility in terms of shape and levels, allowing you to create a customized outdoor area that complements your home’s architecture. Many jurisdictions require a building permit to build a deck, so be sure to contact your local building department to learn their permitting and inspection requirements.

Cedar Decking: Prices, Different Types, Maintenance & More

To further enhance your deck’s durability against water damage, consider exploring coatings and sealants designed specifically for decks. These products provide an extra layer of protection against UV rays, foot traffic, and other environmental factors that can weaken the wood over time. Additionally, building codes outline minimum standards for design, materials used, structural integrity, and more. These codes serve as guidelines for ensuring quality throughout the entire installation process. This material is resistant to rot, mold, and insects, making it a great choice for use in harsh outdoor environments. However, this durability does come with a higher cost compared to some other options on the market.

Choosing the Best Decking Material Option

Learn which material will best suit your home with our full comparison. In https://bizidex.com/en/clear-view-builders-contractors-709090 tough climates or when maintenance has been long deferred, a wood deck will need to be washed, stripped, sanded, and resealed, a process that can cost $2.50 per sq. Do that twice on a cedar deck and you would have been better off buying synthetic decking that needs only an occasional washing and has a life expectancy of 25 years. However, since it's plastic, PVC decking doesn't break down naturally, making it durable with minimal maintenance. Because it has no organic material, PVC decking is highly resistant to water, mold, mildew, and insect damage. If you’re looking for a reliable metal decking supplier, get in touch with us today. Whatever your project requires, we can provide a composite steel decking to suit. We have metal decks in stock at 30 locations, so you can expect timely delivery no matter where you’re located. Depending on your budget and available space, wrap-around decks can be narrow or spacious. This deck type includes railings, steps, and coverings as desired. The advantage of this deck style is that it offers plenty of usable outdoor space and can easily be accessed from different points around your home. Building a deck beyond the minimum standard is recommended for both safety and longevity. In addition to composite and wood decking, a few alternative decking materials are worth mentioning. There are several types of wood decking to choose from when planning your new deck. The most common wood for decking includes cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated. Other wood decking options include tropical hardwoods such as ipe, cumaru, and tigerwood.