Are you considering building an outdoor deck for your yard? We understand that you may want to expand your living space, eat at an outdoor dining area, or have a monthly barbecue with your friends and family. But this may be your first time, and you may not even know where to start yet.
This blog will provide the most important factor: what kind of material you want for your deck. This will affect how your deck will be built, your budget, and many other factors. Once you pin down what material you want, everything else will fall into place. So, with our expert advice, let’s help you find the best deck construction materials.
Classic Composite Deck Construction for Your Yard
What is Composite Deck Construction?
You may be thinking, what is composite decking? I’ve never heard of that wood type before! Composite decking isn’t actually a kind of wood but rather a mix of wood fibers combined with recycled plastics. This innovative design offers many advantages to traditional wooden decks.What are its Pros and Cons?
Composite decking is durable and can resist problems that traditional wooden decks face, like rot and insect damage. If properly cared for, composite decking can last well over 20 years. It is also eco-friendly since it is made from recycled materials. You can get them in various colors and textures, which are all slip-resistant. Lastly, they can withstand extreme temperatures, making them the ideal choice if you live in a tropical climate subject to frequent rainstorms. However, they do have their drawbacks. For one, it can be an issue if you have a small budget but want a large deck to cover your backyard or landscape. They are also prone to heat retention, which doesn’t make them ideal for extremely hot areas. Heat can also cause it to fade over time since they are not immune to the damage UV rays cause. They can also warp in extreme heat as well. They can also be expensive due to their limited repair options. Oftentimes you’ll need to replace the composite decking if you get damaged boards fully. But, if you have a lot of money to spare and live in a climate with mildly warm to cold weather, it’s a great option that is both environmentally friendly and low maintenance.
Consider Pressure-Treated Wood for Deck Construction
What is Pressure Treated Wood?
The second runner-up is pressure-treated wood. Pressure-treated wood is basically lumber that has been infused with chemical preservatives. This helps enhance its durability and increase its resistance to natural wear and tear from exposure to the elements. It offers several advantages as well as a few disadvantages.What are its Pros and Cons?
Pressure-treated wood is moisture and rot-resistant because the chemical preservatives create a barrier against moisture, effectively preventing the wood from rotting and decaying. Pressure-treated wood also functions as a great insect repellent due to the preservatives it has in the wood. This would be great if you live in a humid area swarming with gnats and pesky mosquitos. It is also durable and resistant to dents and scratches, which gives it a longer lifespan than untreated wood. Lastly, it is typically more affordable than other decking materials like composite decking, making it a promising option for many homeowners. It does have some cons, though. The same chemicals in pressure-treated wood that protect against blood-sucking insects and preserve the wood also have some downsides. For one, they contain toxic chemicals that can be released if the wood is cut, trimmed, or burned. This can cause potential health risks like respiratory issues. Even though it is resistant to dents and scratches, it is susceptible to warping and shrinkage and can fade to a grayish hue when exposed to sunlight after long periods. It also presents more maintenance challenges, is not environmentally friendly, and is not ideal for dining. It is great for people who want to repel insects and don’t plan on using it as a dining surface.
Premium Cedarwood for a Luxurious Deck Construction
What are Cedarwood Decks?
Cedarwood decks are made from cedarwood. Cedar is popular for deck construction due to its unique properties and aesthetic appeal. The cedarwood deck boards are built using lumber from Western Red Cedar, giving them a nice sheen. Cedar is also known for its aromatic fragrance, which can last for decades. Cedar Wood is a great option for people who want a unique wood deck resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage.What are its Pros and Cons?
Cedarwood boards are durable and available in a variety of colors for your deck. They can offer a nice, warm appearance, and many people love them for their tight grain patterns. Unlike pressure-treated wood, they do not warp or split in humid environments and are very environmentally friendly. Lastly, they are ideal for environments where summers get very hot. Even during the midst of summer, they stay cool to the touch. Cedar is a great material for deck construction, but does present some challenges for homeowners. They require the most work to maintain their appearance compared to pressure-treated wood and composite decking. They require regular cleaning, sealing, and maintenance to remain in good condition and not turn an unappealing silvery gray color. They are also prone to scratching and can get easily marked compared to other wood types. Cedarwood deck boards can also be more expensive than other construction materials. A whopping $5-$10 per linear foot on average. But, if you don’t mind maintaining your deck, want a high-quality decking material, and have a lifestyle that won’t expose it to too much wear and tear, cedarwood is for you!
Conclusion
With our top materials, you’ll be well on your way to starting your deck construction project. There are many other decking materials besides the ones we’ve discussed here, so don’t feel crestfallen if you didn’t decide which one you’ll choose. Luckily, we at Southern Love Landscaping & Design can help you! We are local experts who can help you discover the best decking material for yourself…and supply it! With our passion for designing gorgeous landscapes, it’s our main priority to help you fall in love with your landscape. If you’re interested in learning more about what deck construction options are available to you, you can contact us today, and we’ll provide you with a free quote! You can count on us to create a beautiful landscape you’ll adore.
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