Best Decking Materials for Your Yard

What is Pressure-Treated Wood: The Basics It’s easy to get option paralysis when weighing the pros and cons of each one. While wood remains a popular choice, alternatives such as composite and plastic decking have become a top pick for homeowners due to their longevity and easy maintenance. Below, we explore the pros and cons of popular decking materials so you can see which may be best for your outdoor project. Typically square, rectangle, L-shape, or U-shape, attached decks are built directly off your home. They may extend an existing room, like a kitchen or dining room.

Pros and Cons of Plastic Decking

Various deck materials include natural wood, treated lumber, and composite lumber. Here’s everything you need to know about the types of decks available. There are many different types of decks, and they can be attached, detached, multi-level, or custom-built for your property and needs. Experts advise that decks be inspected by a qualified professional. Once a year is ideal for decks older than 10 years, while every two or three years may be acceptable for newer decks. The service life of deck components ranges between 10 years (or less) for decks located on the ocean to thirty years for decks in a dry environment. Learn how to determine the number of footings and support posts you need for your deck when designing your deck frame. However, it’s important to note that some brands may require specific cleaning products or methods. Environmental considerations are important as we all want to reduce our carbon footprint. For this reason, composite decking has become more popular because it is made from recycled materials such as plastic bags or milk jugs.

Composite Boards

You’ll want to be careful in hot or sunny climates as it can get very hot. A side deck sits on the side of your home, rather than the front or the back. This deck type tends to be smaller than other types, and it’s typically used for grilling, lounging, or gardening. One major benefit is that side decks also offer seclusion, perfect for a hot tub, sauna, or private reading area. When building an entryway deck, it's important to match the style and structure of your home. Ideally, the front of your house should have a cohesive appearance and not look as if the deck was an afterthought. Side decks often cost less to build than backyard decks because they’re typically smaller. But they still enhance your home's aesthetic and expand your usable outdoor space. When it https://mu6.me/193010 comes to building a deck, there are certain codes and regulations that must be followed. These safety measures ensure that your deck is structurally sound, durable, and safe for use. Preventing mold growth on your deck is another important part of maintenance. Make sure to keep surrounding plants trimmed back so they don’t impede air flow around your deck, which can lead to moisture buildup and subsequent fungal growth.

Styles of decks, such as wraparound, multi-tier, attached, detached, and entryway decks, can be tailored to fit your home’s architectural style and your specific needs.For example, polyethylene plastic and wood fiber deck boards contain wood fibers, such as sawdust.One major benefit is that side decks also offer seclusion, perfect for a hot tub, sauna, or private reading area.Plastic and wood composite decking work well for some people, but there are also reasons why it doesn’t work for everyone.

In the next section, we will explore different methods for keeping moisture at bay while enjoying your outdoor living space all year round. No matter which option you choose, adding shade to your deck is sure to enhance its usability and comfort. But before you start building any new structures, it’s important to understand the decking codes and regulations in your area. Luckily, there are many types of deck lighting options available that can accomplish both goals. You’ll need to power-wash, sand, and refinish cedar and redwood approximately every three years to maintain their appearance. While they can last for decades, the sun will fade their natural color to gray without proper protection. Labor costs between $15–$35 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the project, per Angi.