Best Decking Materials for Your Yard

Your Guide to All Types of Decks: How To Choose a Deck for Your Home It’s also easy to find, cut, and work with, although precautions, such as a mask, must be taken while sawing or drilling to avoid inhalation of chemicals. In addition, scraps should not be burned to avoid releasing chemical vapors. Also called vinyldecking, PVC decking boards are a popular synthetic choice for busy spaces where pets and kids spend time. Unlike composite decking, vinyl decking is entirely synthetic and doesn’t include any wood material. It is resistant to decay, but relatively soft and quick to weather. You don’t have to rely on the big box stores for your deck products. There are specialty lumberyards in most cities that carry species of lumber that you cannot find at the big box stores. Deforestation and forest https://www.cylex.us.com/company/clear-view-builders-39251615.html destruction is a leading cause of carbon pollution, causing 20% of total greenhouse gas emissions. None of us wants to think the exotic hardwood used on our deck contributes to the warming of the planet.

Use corrosion-resistant fasteners and perform regular inspections to identify and replace affected parts.Multi-tier decks tend to be larger and require a higher budget compared to other styles.Perform seasonal maintenance, such as removing snow accumulation in winter and checking for mold growth in damp climates.If you’ve skipped a season, add $10 per 100 square feet for brightener.Cedar can be found at an approximate price range of $9 to $11.50 per square foot.To help make your decision easier and better understand outdoor deck flooring materials, check out our collection of articles.

Deck Styles

In construction, the term “metal decking” is often tossed around. It’s essential to find a balance between functionality, aesthetics, and your individual preferences. The chemical preservative is forced into the wood cells under pressure. Pressure-treated wood usually has a warranty against decay and termite damage, in most cases for the lifetime of the original purchaser. Preserved lumber is also used for fencing, landscaping, walkways and other backyard projects. Subjecting pine boards to chemical treatments under pressure produces a low-cost alternative to cedar. Two of the most popular types of deck materials are wood and composite. From pressure treated lumber to more exotic hardwoods, wood decking gives you a variety of styles to choose from. Depending on your location and availability of certain woods, the cost of wood decking can vary. Another popular option that affords homeowners an array of colors and styles to choose from is durable composite decking. Composite decking is made from a combination of wood pulp and synthetic materials covered with a synthetic shell. Learn how composite decking is made from recycled materials at Decks.com. PVC's cost and lack of recycled content are its main limitations. That said, PVC decking has less recycled content than other synthetic choices (some are 100% virgin).

Built-In Features

From obtaining necessary permits to sourcing materials and completing the project itself, there are many steps involved in building a deck. With experienced contractors handling these tasks, you can rest assured that everything will be done efficiently and effectively. Budget considerations are often a primary factor for those considering a DIY deck installation. However, it’s essential not to sacrifice safety precautions or quality control in an attempt to cut costs. If you’re looking for DIY installation tips, consider using solar-powered lights or low-voltage wiring options for easy setup without the need for professional electrical work. Because these decks are near water, it's best to choose a slip-resistant material. Choose a composite or Trex decking material for durability or add a sealant on wood decks. But with so many materials and options available, it can be overwhelming trying to decide on the right approach for your project. Decks are typically made with a variety of pressure treated lumber or other composite materials. However, synthetic decking (aka PVC) also has an impressive life span of up to 50 years with proper maintenance. PVC may be the way to go here because ipe recently got added to the CITES Appendices of endangered species, so trade will be heavily regulated, and prices may soon increase. A multi-tier or two-story deck has more than one level, typically with one level attached to your home. Multi-level decks are great for a large property or one with varying heights (i.e. tricky terrain, hills, or rocky landscaping). Built-in steps or pathways often connect the different tiers for a cohesive outdoor space, making it easier to entertain guests for summer barbecues and cocktail hours. If your property features slopes or uneven terrain, a multilevel deck can be an ideal choice. This style involves building one level attached to your house, providing easy access from your exterior doors. Additional levels are created with steps, offering different-sized deck areas suitable for various purposes. Multi-tier decks tend to be larger and require a higher budget compared to other styles. This guide gives you the pros and cons of every deck material, from solid wood to composite. If lowering your carbon footprint is important to you, contact the manufacturer for information. Many composite hues resemble wood and are scratch-resistant, but performance varies by manufacturer and price. The American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) is a non-profit organization that has long set the standards for treated wood used in residential and commercial applications. The AWPA classifies wood treatment types according to where and how they can be used. Always check the tags on the end of the boards to get critical information about the pressure treatment.