A deck is a place where you can rejuvenate, enjoy the outdoors, and entertain. When you invest money building a new deck or upgrading an existing deck, you want to make sure it will look great and stay safe for years. When selecting the decking materials, it is important to consider their durability along with the looks of the chosen material, as a deck remains exposed to heat, rain, dirt, and other elements.
In our state, we experience some harsh weather conditions, including factors like heat, rain, humidity, hurricanes, and winds that can affect decking material.
One of the most popular deck options is pressure-treated wood. Pressure-treated decks are well known for being chemically treated to avoid fungus, termites, and mildew. Pressure-treated wood is economical and readily available. You can stain it to the color of your choice, and it’s known for its longevity, lasting up to 20 years. However, the wood can warp, split and crack. It also requires a yearly power washing and staining, or application of a wood preservative every two to three years.
Cedar is considered softwood, but it’s full of natural preservatives and can last 15- 20 years. People love cedarwood because Cedar doesn’t require chemical treatment to resist bugs, decay, and rot. It has natural resistance from its oils and tannins. However, it tends to be more expensive than pressure-treated wood.
Composite decking, made from plastic or PVC material, is ideal when wood doesn’t sound like the best option. This type of decking is resistant to insects, and it won’t warp or rot but will look just like wood. However, composite decks can still grow mold and mildew in a damp area. If you spill anything that can harbor moisture, you’ll need to clean it up quickly so it won’t permanently damage the surface.
Aluminum is a highly moisture-resistant deck option. Aluminum can also resist damage caused by insects, and the aluminum does not splinter, crack, warp or rot. But, aluminum decks will look artificial, so it is not a popular option.
When you want to build a deck for your summer enjoyment, it can feel overwhelming to find the right material. At Shore Builders, our experienced contractors have expert knowledge of these materials. When it comes time to design and build your new deck, look no further than Shore Builders. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.