Non-Wooden Materials for Deck Building
Composite Decking Material
Composites are gaining popularity among materials for deck building. They are made from a combination of recycled plastics, reused wood scraps, polyethylene, or polyvinyl chloride plastic.
The Pros:
- The upkeep is incredibly easy.
- Composites won’t splinter.
- A composite deck can last 30 years.
The Cons:
- Composite materials cost more than wood.
- Plastic composites can become moldy and mildew over time.
Aluminum Decking Material
Aluminum decking is strong and durable. Use aluminum materials to build a deck that has a modern, sleek design.
The Pros:
- Is very low maintenance.
- The finish won’t peel or fade.
- Aluminum doesn’t rust, splinter, or crack and won’t grow mold or mildew.
The Cons:
- It can be noisy when walked on and slippery when wet.
- Aluminum is expensive compared to other types of decking materials.
Wood Materials for Deck Building
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is one of the most used materials for deck building. It is chemically treated which makes it resistant to wood-destroying fungi and pests.
The Pros:
- It is an easy material to work with.
- Pressure-treated lumber is the most affordable decking material.
The Cons:
- Compared to non-wood options, pressure-treated wood takes more effort to maintain. It needs to be repainted and sealed every few years and requires an annual pressure washing.
- The wood will eventually begin to warp, crack, and splinter.
Cedar and Redwood
While these two species of wood do have small differences – redwood tends to be a bit smoother and with fewer knots, for example, they’re both great materials for deck building.
The Pros:
- Cedar and Redwood are more durable than pressure treated wood.
- These woods are attractive and add beauty to your home.
The Cons:
- Maintenance includes power washing annually and occasionally re-staining to preserve the color.
- These materials need to be resealed every few years.
Tropical Hardwood Materials for Deck Building
Tropical hardwood is unique because of the source material. As the name implies, it comes from wood that’s gathered from tropical forests.
The Pros:
- Tropical hardwood is very durable and can last up to 50 years.
- It is fire resistant.
- It is durable and does not scratch easily.
- Tropical hardwood is not susceptible to damage from insects or rot.
The Cons:
- Tropical hardwood is very expensive and difficult to install.
- The decking needs to be oiled regularly in order to maintain the color.
Oasis Home Inspections provides home inspection services to Brevard County, Florida and the surrounding areas. Contact us to book your appointment.