Choosing the Best Deck Material Option for Your Home

Whether you’re building a new deck or renovating an existing one, the material you choose makes a big difference in the deck’s appearance and lifespan. With so many deck options available, there’s a lot to consider when designing your new deck. Homeowners often prioritize the price of materials when shopping; but it’s also important to think about your environment, the maintenance required over the life of the deck, and the deck material’s lifespan.

A new deck is an investment in your home, so it’s smart to find the decking material that suits your budget and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of the most common types of decking materials so you can create a deck design you’ll love.

Wood Decking

Wood was the most popular decking material for many years because it’s a readily available, affordable decking material. However, wood is vulnerable to rot, insect damage, and surface weathering, so a wood deck requires regular maintenance. Different types of wood decking vary in price per square foot and durability. While the up-front cost of wood decking may be slightly lower than engineered materials, maintenance costs will be higher. A real wood deck typically has a 10-20 year lifespan, depending on the climate and whether it is regularly maintained.

Pressure-Treated Wood:

The least expensive wood deck option, pressure-treated wood decking infuses less dense, lower-grade wood with chemicals to seal it and deter insects. This popular deck project material is readily available at big-box retailers. Pressure-treating gives the wood a longer lifespan than just stain or sealant alone. However, because wood is an organic material, it’s still vulnerable to insects and moisture damage and will warp and splinter over time. Pressure-treated wood has the highest maintenance costs of any decking material.

Maintenance including pressure washing is needed to fight mildew and discoloration on wood decking

Hardwood & Softwood:

Wood decking materials also include exotic hardwoods like ipe, mahogany, and teak. These wood species are the ideal choice for homeowners who want the beauty of natural wood with its rich color and grain. When properly sealed and maintained, these tropical woods can stand up to the elements for years. Softwoods include cedar and redwood decking, which create a rustic look and provide beautiful color. However, real wood will fade and turn gray from exposure to UV rays; insects are always an issue. Tropical hardwood species are a more expensive option than pressure-treated lumber, and some types are even pricier than engineered materials like composite decking.

In harsh climates like the Northeast, real wood decking is not the best choice for several reasons:

• Maintenance: For proper maintenance, a real wood deck will need sealer every 1-3 years, and sanding and refinishing every 2-5 years.
• Cost: With the rising price of lumber, the cost of a high-quality wood deck is now comparable to some composite products.
• Not eco-friendly: Wood is not a sustainable decking material because it requires a continuous supply of trees. And hardwoods are not grown on tree farms – they must be cut from forests.