When it comes to getting the best deck building tips, there is no information more valuable than knowing the type of material you should use to build your deck. You have plenty of options from which to choose and the decision you make will have a significant impact on the cost of your project.
You will find decks Candler, NC, made from all types of different deck materials. But one thing that most of them have in common is the size of the boards you can purchase. Just about all boards made of some kind of wood come milled or manufactured in five-quarter thickness with a varied width of four to six inches. The size you select will depend largely on the type of deck you plan to build and the size of the surface.
The most common materials used in decks around the country are as follows:
Pressure-Treated
This is the most cost effective of the decking materials you’re going to find out there because it only costs about two bucks a square foot. This option comes with definite pros and cons, even if it’s among the most commonly chosen material for your average deck. The biggest benefit here is that the decking is treated for durability and resilience against rot and pest infestations. On the negative side, the wood used to make this material is lower-grade and tends to demand a higher level of homeowner maintenance in order to preserve it.
Natural Wood
Many homeowners go with natural wood because it has a certain aesthetic that many consumers prefer. The two most popular options are cedar and redwood, with the former costing less than the latter by a few dollars per square feet. But when you choose natural woods like cedar or redwood, you’re getting the benefit of the tannins and oils that exist within the wood normally, which are highly effective at deterring mold, pests, and rot.
But you will need to stain and seal the material in order to protect it from the elements, otherwise you run the risk of the decking losing its natural luster and turning dull and grey.
Synthetic Composite
If you want a deck surface that looks great and requires next to zero maintenance, you may want to go with a composite deck. With this type of material, you’re getting a board that’s made from a mix of wood fiber and recycled plastic. The result is a deck that won’t show any signs of warping, you need not worry about splinters, nor pests or rot either. Since the decking is made of this combination of materials, your maintenance is going to be extremely simple.
Many homeowners are concerned about choosing composite because it lacks the authentic appearance of wood, but more manufacturers are designing and building composite to emulate the real thing in every possible way.
Aluminum
Maybe you don’t want to go with wood, you can also choose aluminum. It’s a versatile option that comes in multiple colors. It’s about as maintenance-free as you can get and each of the planks is treated for slip-resistance so everyone stays safe out there. However, it can be one of the more costly choices.