A deck is a comfortable place to spend time with family, grill burgers, and enjoy the outdoors. A well-maintained deck also adds value to a home. If you’re thinking of building a deck or need to replace your current one, you have options when it comes to building materials. Here are three different types of decking materials for you to consider.
Wood Types of Decking Materials
Pressure-treated lumber is the most common type of decking material because of its affordable price. The wood is chemically treated to resist insects and rot. It is usually made from lower grade pine and tends to crack and warp with time.
Cedar is another popular choice for decks. Cedar is naturally resistant to insects and rot so there’s no need for chemical preservatives. It is strong and lightweight and relatively easy to find. It’s grain and density make cedar less likely to warp. Over time cedar ages to a muted gray color.
Any type of wooden decking will need to be regularly stained or weather-sealed to stay in good shape. They are prone to decay over time and are not fire-resistant.
Aluminum Decking
Aluminum decking has become a popular option in recent years. Aluminum doesn’t splinter or warp. It is insect-, rot-, and fire-resistant and you won’t have to seal or stain your aluminum deck. Aluminum can be noisy in bad weather and with foot traffic. It is slippery when wet and installation is a bit more difficult than building a wooden deck.
Composite Types of Decking Materials
Composites are an easy-to-maintain type of decking that’s made up of wood and plastics. These decking boards won’t rot, attract insects, or splinter. A composite deck in a sunny location can be hot on bare feet and they can be slippery in wet weather.
Composites are difficult to stain, which is both good and bad. The ketchup from your cookout can be easily wiped up, but if you decide you would like to change the color of your deck, most composites don’t take stain well.
JW Goad Home Inspections offers home inspections to Clarksville, TN, and the surrounding areas. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to schedule an appointment.