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6 Great Decking Material Options to Choose From

When it comes to creating the perfect outdoor oasis, choosing the right decking material is a crucial decision. Your deck…
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Jacob Wadding

When it comes to creating the perfect outdoor oasis, choosing the right decking material is a crucial decision. Your deck is an extension of your living space, where you can relax, entertain, and soak in the beauty of the great outdoors. In this homeowner’s guide, we’ll explore six fantastic decking material options to help you transform your outdoor space into a dreamy retreat.

Inside this blog

  • Why the right decking material matters
  • 6 great decking material options for homeowners to consider
  • Key features of each decking material
  • 8 factors to consider when choosing a type of decking material for your home

Ready to learn everything you need to know about decking materials and how to boost your home’s aesthetic with the right one?! Start scrollin’!

Why Decking Material Matters 🏡

Before we dive into the various decking options, let’s understand why the choice of material is essential:

  • Aesthetic Appeal: The material you choose will greatly impact the appearance of your deck. It should complement your home’s architecture and your personal style.
  • Durability: Your deck faces the elements year-round, so it must withstand rain, snow, UV rays, and foot traffic. The right material ensures your deck stands the test of time.
  • Maintenance: Different materials require different levels of upkeep. Choose one that matches your maintenance preferences and schedule.
  • Comfort and Safety: Consider how comfortable the deck will be underfoot, especially in hot or cold weather. Safety is paramount, so select a material that provides good traction.
  • Budget: Decking materials come at various price points, so align your choice with your budget while also considering long-term savings.

Let’s Explore the Decking Options 🪵

deck-on-house

Now, let’s delve into 6 great decking material options for your outdoor space:

1. Pressure-Treated Wood

Pressure-treated wood is a classic and cost-effective choice for deck construction. It’s treated to resist decay and insect damage, making it a durable option.

Key Features 🌟

  • Affordable and widely available.
  • Natural wood appearance that can be stained or painted.
  • Suitable for various architectural styles.
  • Resistant to decay and insects.
  • Requires regular sealing or staining to maintain appearance.

2. Cedar Decking

Cedar is a popular choice for wood decking due to its natural beauty and durability. It has a rich, reddish-brown color and a pleasant aroma.

Key Features 🌟

  • A cedar wood deck has an attractive appearance with natural color variations.
  • Resistant to decay and insects, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
  • Cedar’s natural oils act as a barrier against moisture.
  • Suitable for staining or leaving natural.
  • Requires regular sealing or staining to preserve color and appearance.

3. Composite Decking

Composite decking is a low-maintenance and environmentally friendly option made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic. It mimics the look of wood without the same level of maintenance.

Key Features 🌟

  • Low maintenance, no need for staining or sealing.
  • Resistant to rot, decay, and insects.
  • Available in various colors and textures.
  • Long-lasting and durable.
  • Environmentally friendly, as it reduces the demand for virgin wood.

4. Tropical Hardwood Decking

Tropical hardwoods like Ipe, Tigerwood, and Cumaru are known for their exceptional durability and natural beauty. They are an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a luxurious deck.

Key Features 🌟

  • Exotic and stunning appearance with rich colors.
  • Highly durable and resistant to decay, insects, and weather.
  • Low maintenance; may naturally silver over time.
  • Ideal for high-traffic areas and coastal environments.
  • Requires periodic sealing to maintain color.

5. PVC Decking

PVC decking is made from polyvinyl chloride and is known for its durability, low maintenance, and resistance to moisture. It’s an excellent choice for areas with heavy rainfall.

Key Features 🌟

  • Highly resistant to moisture, rot, and insects.
  • Low maintenance; no need for staining or sealing.
  • Available in various colors and styles.
  • Stays cool to the touch even in hot weather.
  • Lightweight and easy to work with.

6. Aluminum Decking

Aluminum decking is a modern and innovative choice. It’s exceptionally durable, resistant to corrosion, and offers a contemporary look.

Key Features 🌟

  • Exceptional durability and longevity.
  • Resistant to moisture, rot, and insects.
  • Lightweight and easy to handle during installation.
  • Modern appearance with various finishes.
  • Requires minimal maintenance, with occasional cleaning.

Choosing the Right Decking Material

gray-deck

To help you make an informed decision, here’s a checklist of 8 factors to consider when choosing the right decking material for your home:

1. Budget

Determine your budget for the deck, including materials, labor, and potential maintenance costs.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

Consider the appearance of the material and how well it complements your home’s design and your personal style.

3. Durability

Think about your local climate and how well the material can withstand it. You’ll want a decking material that can handle the elements.

4. Maintenance

Consider the level of maintenance you’re willing to commit to. Some materials require regular upkeep, while others are virtually maintenance-free.

5. Comfort and Safety

Think about how the material feels underfoot, especially in extreme weather conditions, and whether it provides good traction.

6. Environmental Impact

If eco-friendliness is a concern, explore materials like composite decking that incorporate recycled content.

7. Longevity

Consider the expected lifespan of the material and whether it aligns with your long-term plans for your home.

8. Local Building Codes

Check if there are any local building codes or regulations that dictate the type of decking material you can use.

Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal With The Best Decking Material

Your choice of decking material can significantly impact your outdoor space’s beauty, functionality, and longevity. Whether you opt for the classic charm of wood, the low-maintenance convenience of composite, or the modern allure of aluminum, each material has its unique benefits. Take your time to weigh the pros and cons, consult with professionals, and select the decking material that best suits your home, lifestyle, and budget. With the right material, your deck will become a cherished space for relaxation, gatherings, and enjoyment for years to come.

Get in Touch with our expert team at Arch Exteriors today. Experience customized exterior options for any budget and lifetime warranties on all products. We’re excited to chat about your next project!

About the Author
Your home is probably the most expensive thing you own. When you hire somebody to make improvements, you want high-quality work. In addition, you hope they’ll take the same care you would. You want someone with a good reputation, legitimate credentials, well established, using quality materials, and who charges a fair price. For over 11 years, I have worked hard to provide all of those benefits to my clients. One of the major reasons we have been able to do that is our ability to keep highly qualified personnel. Our workers are well trained, properly motivated, and managed professionally. I make certain that I convey measurable systems and procedures that our team understands and can readily follow.

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