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

Decking Materials: Composite, Wood, or Plastic? This style of deck tends to be quite large and requires a larger budget than other deck styles. If your property has hills or isn’t perfectly level, then you have the perfect setup for a multi-tier deck. You’ll build one level that’s attached to your house and level with your exterior doors. Natural wood is a great choice because it’s natural, durable, and feels great. Its downside is that it requires the most amount of maintenance. Most detached decks have stairs or pathways leading up to them, but not always. The cost of decking material ranges from $2–$45 per square foot. Pressure-treated wood is the least costly at $2–$5 per square foot, while composite decking costs between $12 and $22, and aluminum/metal costs between $15 and $20 per square foot. Attached decks come in all shapes and sizes, including square, rectangular, L-shaped, U-shaped, or custom-designed. They can also lead to https://www.edocr.com/v/a5wr0qx4/clearviewbuildersinc/elevating-homes-and-businesses-clear-view-builders fun outdoor features like a pergola or gazebo.

Wood Decking vs. Composite Decking

Known for its natural beauty, cedar decks are resistant to bugs and offer excellent durability. However, being a softwood, cedar can be prone to damage if not properly maintained. Plastic and wood composite decking work well for some people, but there are also reasons why it doesn’t work for everyone. However, while this wood is inexpensive, it does require constant maintenance like coats of stain and sealer and pressure washing to keep it looking its best. Also, decks made from pressure-treated wood will require sanding to keep them splinter-free. Even so, these boards will crack, warp, and shrink over time and exposure to harsh weather.

The Different Types of Decks and Deck Materials

Metal decking, or steel decking as it is sometimes called, is a broad term used to refer to corrugated metal sheeting used as a structural roof or floor deck. Your guide to understanding the differences between wood deck screws and composite deck screws. Wood decking of any type requires annual refinishing to hold its original luster.

Hurricane Ties: Uses and Installation

With multiple levels, you can separate different functions of your deck into distinct areas while still maintaining an overall cohesive look. Multi-level decks also lend themselves well to incorporating built-in features like benches, planters, and more. However, safety considerations must be taken into account when building these types of structures due to potential fall hazards between levels. Cedar is one of the most cost-effective decking materials in terms of cost and longevity. Cedar is not as inexpensive as pressure treated wood, but it is close. Yet, if you maintain cedar, it will last longer than pressure treated wood.

For additional information please speak to a licensed professional in your area for up-to-date rules, regulations, city ordinances, and pricing.Many factors go into choosing deck material options, from cost and appearance to maintenance and installation.Both can affect exposure to the sun, extreme weather, and wood-eating bugs that could ruin a wood deck.Decks are commonly constructed outdoors and are built to provide additional living space and enhance the functionality and aesthetics of a property.It’s installed over steel beams and joints and supports wet concrete.

Learn more about choosing quality natural lumber, pressure treated wood, composite materials or synthetic varieties. This deck material is the most durable, but it is also the most expensive. Decks made of concrete or stone can last for decades, depending on the installation quality and environmental conditions. The installation cost varies depending on the size of the deck and the exact material used. Stone and concrete decks are an excellent choice for smaller ground-level areas. One of the most popular green decking options is composite decking made from recycled plastic and wood fibers. Not only does this material divert waste from landfills, but it also requires minimal upkeep and lasts much longer than traditional lumber. Other environmentally conscious choices include bamboo, reclaimed wood, and even aluminum.