What is Pressure-Treated Wood: The Basics

Best Decking Materials for Your Yard Third, composite decking is made from recycled materials, so it's an eco-friendly choice. And fourth, it comes in a variety of colors and styles to suit your home. When choosing decking, the three factors I consider first are appearance, durability and cost, and any other builder likely does the same. Other choices, such as PVC or aluminum, are in the mix, but these three are the ones builders and homeowners most commonly choose. You can build a deck around in-ground or above-ground pools to create a more cohesive look. Make sure you meet local https://www.reddit.com/user/clearviewbuilder/ safety codes for swimming pools, such as ensuring there's a fence or gate around the pool. 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. You’ll need to power-wash, sand, and refinish cedar and redwood approximately every three years to maintain their appearance. While they can last for decades, the sun will fade their natural color to gray without proper protection. Labor costs between $15–$35 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the project, per Angi.

Color schemes can also play a big role in setting the tone for your deck.Learn how to determine the number of footings and support posts you need for your deck when designing your deck frame.If you want to create some space between your home and your outdoor entertainment space, this deck type is for you.In conclusion, building a deck is an excellent way to enhance your outdoor living space and add value to your home.

When choosing your perfect deck lighting setup, keep in mind the balance between function and aesthetics. You want enough light to safely navigate your space while still setting a cozy atmosphere that encourages relaxation and socializing. Custom planters are another great option if you’re looking to incorporate greenery into your design. By building them directly into the deck, you can create an integrated look that’s both functional and stylish.

Pros and Cons of Metal Decking

Cedar also contains natural tannins, which make it resistant to decay, infestation, and rot. Uncapped composite decking isn't usually recommended since it's more susceptible to damage from the elements and likely to fade unevenly and stain over time. In addition, it's prone to mold, mildew, and fungus growth in humid climates, and it can be scratched and damaged easily. It lacks a plastic layer to protect the core, so it’s not as resilient as capped decking. Selecting the right pressure-treated wood means considering the type of structure, environmental conditions, and budget. It’s important to do a little homework (or call us at Decks & Docks!) before buying any pressure-treated wood.

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Fully repairing a deck, especially if structural repairs are necessary, is usually best left to professionals. If you try, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any joist hangers, connectors, and screws or nails that you install. Similar to pressure-treated wood, cedar requires regular maintenance. But if you select quality cedar and provide annual refinishing, you can expect your cedar deck to outperform standard pressure-treated wood decking. In general, the word “composite” means different materials combined to create a new finished product. Composite decking is made from a blend of plastic and wood fibers. It offers the advantage of being lightweight and easy to handle, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts. Cedar also possesses natural tannins that provide resistance against decay, infestation, and rot. By extending the living space outdoors, attached decks create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces and environments, allowing for a smooth flow of activities. A deck not only enhances the aesthetics of your home but also provides an ideal place for relaxation, entertainment, and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. In this guide, we will explore the different types of decks and help you choose the perfect one for your specific needs and preferences. Aesthetically, vinyl provides a wider range of options than wood. It also requires less maintenance than traditional wood decks which means fewer chemicals in the environment. If you reside in a remote area or have a property with breathtaking views, consider the possibility of a rooftop deck. These decks are constructed on top of your home (if you have a flat roof), offering a panoramic view of your surroundings and an additional outdoor living space. However, it’s important to note that building a rooftop deck may not be suitable for homes in neighborhoods or areas with local building code restrictions. Wood is one of the most popular decking materials both in the past and in our current time. For many homeowners, there is just nothing like the look and feel of real wood decking when considering options for their outdoor decking material. Redwood and other hardwoods naturally offer unique colors and textures. Cedar has a classic yellowish look, bamboo is durable and sustainable, and mahogany is resilient. Ipe is the most expensive wood option and is highly resistant to rotting, bugs, wear, splintering, and fire. The ideal wood type will vary based on the weather in your area and how wooded your yard is. Both can affect exposure to the sun, extreme weather, and wood-eating bugs that could ruin a wood deck.