Your Guide to All Types of Decks: How To Choose a Deck for Your Home

How to Choose Between Cedar, Pressure Treated Wood & Composite The longest lasting deck material is plastic decking as much of it has a warranty of 50 years. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) decking is similar to PVC decking in that it is 100% plastic. It also tries to replicate the look and feel of natural wood with wood colors and wood grain patterns.

#4 Vinyl Decking

Proper drainage solutions will also need to be implemented to prevent water damage and erosion. First, you’ll want to assess the slope of your yard and determine if any retaining walls or foundation options are necessary for stability. Not only do they provide an attractive visual addition to your home, but they also offer environmental benefits such as rainwater retention and insulation. Regularly inspecting for damage is a crucial aspect of maintaining any decking surface. Second, seal any cracks in the wood with caulk or putty to prevent water from seeping in and causing further damage.

Composite decking is also very low-maintenance and does not require sanding or refinishing.Before you build, be sure you’re fully aware of local ordinances and zoning laws.It is resistant to decay, but relatively soft and quick to weather.Unlike composite decking, vinyl decking is entirely synthetic and doesn’t include any wood material.

Concrete

Despite the wide selection of decking options, builders and homeowners tend to choose among three main ones. Then there are steps that lead up or down to another flat deck area. You could have multiple levels of different sizes to suit different uses.

Aluminum Decking: The Unconventional Choice

Still, you likely won’t have to worry about recycling your deck because aluminum decks last virtually forever. It comes in multiple colors, so it’s perfect for matching any home exterior. Composites aren’t as stiff as wood, and they move more in response to changes in temperature. Because of this, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions exactly. Metal components can rust or corrode over time, particularly in coastal areas with salty air. Use corrosion-resistant fasteners and perform regular inspections to identify and replace https://vimeo.com/1064573503? affected parts. In short, decks are complex load-bearing structures that most often require structural engineering, plans, and permits. Composite decking is the best decking material for several reasons. It's resistant to rot, insect damage, and weathering, which means it will last longer and require less maintenance over time.