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

Decking Materials: Composite, Wood, or Plastic? Decks have long been a gathering place for homeowners and their families and neighbors. These elevated structures provide an area for dining and socializing and can add value to your home if properly maintained. While wood used to be the primary choice, there are many other great options if you don’t want to put in the time you need to maintain it. Your decision to invest in a deck is an important one, and before you do, you should research all the material options that are available to you. Aluminum decking is an excellent choice for areas with high moisture or extreme weather conditions, such as docks or waterfront properties. Still, this plastic decking doesn’t always look, sound, or feel much like wood, which can be unappealing if you’re not used to it. 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 fun outdoor features like a pergola or gazebo.

Cellular PVC Decking

This versatile and durable lumber is well-suited for a variety of construction needs, looks great, and lasts for decades. Understanding the classifications and grades of pressure-treated wood can help you choose the right type for your specific project. You can cut it to your unique requirements before transporting it to the construction site, making it easier to carry.

Capped Composite Decking: What Is It?

For those who want more greenery on their decks, living walls are becoming increasingly popular. These innovative planters allow you to grow herbs, flowers, and even vegetables vertically using hydroponic systems. Like the curtains that adorn our homes, outdoor curtains add a touch of elegance and privacy to your deck. These curtains can be hung from rods or cables attached to your home’s exterior or surrounding trees. They come in various colors and patterns, allowing you to customize them based on your preferences. While many homeowners may be tempted to save money by taking a do-it-yourself approach, it’s important to consider all the factors before making this choice. When comparing composite and wood decking, ordinary lumber tends to split, warp, or crack, and pressure-treated wood requires far more maintenance than composite decking. But with care, including power washing, sanding, and regular re-staining, you can extend the lifespan of your pressure-treated deck. Decks are common additions to single-family homes, especially those with large yards, and provide outdoor space to entertain and relax. While there are many types of decks, with structural designs ranging from detached to island to multi-level, each kind adds functional, livable outdoor space.

Ipe is the most expensive wood option and is highly resistant to rotting, bugs, wear, splintering, and fire.Most detached decks have stairs or pathways leading up to them, but not always.By considering all of these factors, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on which contractor is right for your deck-building needs.Rooftop decks aren’t only for city apartments and hotels anymore.Often built at the front of a home, an entryway deck extends your outdoor living space toward the street.

If any concerns arise during an inspection or maintenance check, it’s recommended to seek professional consultation from a licensed contractor who can assess the situation further. Sealant application is another important step because it helps protect against moisture penetration by forming a barrier on the surface of your deck. Alternatively, you may want to consider applying a sealant or stain that contains waterproofing agents. As the name implies, a wraparound deck is an attached deck that connects to more than one side of your home and creates an expansive outdoor area. Most wraparound decks have railings and are slightly elevated to meet your home’s floor level. Maintenance requirements and design options can also impact installation time. In our next section, we’ll dive into how you can add privacy to your outdoor space using fencing and screening options.