The decking material you choose for your home will depend on a few different factors. Do you want an environmentally-friendly option? How much time do you have to dedicate to maintaining the deck? What type of climate do you live in? All these questions and more should be considered before making such a major purchase, but fortunately, there are many options available! Below we’ll discuss some of the most common types of materials people use when building or buying decks. Read this article to determine which option is best for your decking needs.
Composite Decking
One of the most popular types of decking materials is composite. Composite decking is made of a combination of wood and plastic, which gives it many benefits over other materials. For starters, composite decking is environmentally friendly; it can be made from recycled materials. It’s also easy to maintain- all you have to do is hose it down and sweep it off!
Some composites can last up to twenty years without needing any major repairs, and they won’t rot or absorb water. If you choose wood plastic composite decking, you’ll also get the added benefit of extra noise and heat insulation. It’s also important to mention that composite decks are very affordable compared to some of the other materials on this list.
Cedar Decking
If you’re looking for a natural, environmentally-friendly option, cedar decking may be the perfect choice for you. Cedar is a type of wood that is indigenous to North America and is known for its durability and resistance to rot and insects. It’s also beautiful and cedar decks are available in many different colors, including dark brown, light brown, and red.
Another benefit of cedar is that it requires very little maintenance, you can simply sweep or hose off your deck to keep it looking its best. The only downside to cedar is its cost. Since this type of wood is in high demand, cedar decks can be more expensive than other materials. If you’re looking to save money, consider using a cedar alternative such as ipe or incense cedar.
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is another popular option for building decks. This type of wood has been soaked in a chemical solution that makes it extremely resistant to rot, decay, and insects. Therefore your deck will last longer before you need to make repairs. Pressure-treated decking boards are also very affordable, especially if you’re looking for an inexpensive option. Keep in mind that this type of wood will turn gray over time, so if you’re looking for a natural look, you may want to choose a different material.
Redwood
Redwood is another popular type of decking material. This type of wood comes from coniferous trees, and these types of trees are generally more resistant to rot and insect problems. Furthermore, this type of wood is known for its durability and natural beauty. Redwood can range in price depending on the size of the planks you buy, but it will typically be a bit pricier than pressure-treated wood. You should also be aware that redwood can warp and shrink over time, so it’s important to take care of it properly.
Vinyl
Vinyl is a very low-maintenance material. It will never rot, warp, or splinter, so you don’t have to worry about making any repairs to it down the road. This type of decking is also great if you have children or pets because it has no splinters and won’t cause any injuries.
Additionally, vinyl boards are waterproof, so you never have to worry about getting them wet. The biggest downside to the vinyl boards is that they may not stand the test of time since it’s possible for them to crack over time. You should also be aware that this type of decking cannot be stained like real wood can, and you won’t want to use cleaners on it because they can damage the vinyl.
Euro-tiles
Euro-tiles are another option you can consider. These tiles are made from high-density polyethylene and also come in a variety of different colors and shapes. They’re extremely durable and will typically last for many years without needing to make any repairs, which is why they’re such a great investment.
The biggest downside to these tiles is that they can be very slippery when they get wet, which makes them a hazard for young children. Therefore if you’re looking to build your deck in a place where there are children, it might not be the best option for you.
How To Choose?
Now that you know a little bit more about the different types of decking materials, it’s time to decide which one is right for your needs. Think about how you’ll be using your porch or patio and whether or not there will be young children or pets running around the area. Then consider what material will look best with your home and take into consideration what type will require the least amount of maintenance.
Also, think about your personal preference and choose the material that you think will enhance your backyard. No matter what you choose, be sure to consult with a professional before starting your project. They will be able to guide you in the right direction and make sure that your deck is safe and looks great! When it comes to decking materials, there are a variety of options to choose from.
It’s important to know the difference between each type so that you can find the best material for your needs. You can choose from many different types of decking material, such as composite, redwood, cedar, or vinyl. You may also be able to choose from an extremely low-maintenance option such as Euro-tiles. Deciding which one is the right choice for your project will require a little bit of research and a consultation with a professional, but once you know the pros, cons, and prices of each option, you’ll be able to pick one!
We hope this article has helped clear up some of the confusion and given you a better idea of what to expect when choosing decking materials. Happy decking!
