There are more deck material choices now than ever before and each one has its advantages. By choosing the right materials for your situation, building your project carefully, and maintaining it periodically, homeowners will be rewarded with years of enjoying a beautiful deck.
Due to their low maintenance qualities, decks made of composite materials are a popular choice today. Generally there are two types of composite boards – one made with a blend of recycled plastic and wood byproducts and the other made with 100% PVC. Deck boards made with recycled materials may be more green, might cost less, but they are more prone to fading. Boards made of PVC are lightweight, are more resistant to fading and scratching, but may cost more.
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Cedar boards and railings are attractive due to their natural appearance. Cedar costs less than composite materials but more than treated lumber. Cedar will require regular maintenance to keep its natural beauty.
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There are several grades of treated deck boards, each at a different price point. Treated boards are economical, are resistant to rot and decay but the boards are a bit rough and don’t accept paint or stain as well as cedar. Treated lumber is often used in the framing/support structure for decks.
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Ipe and Ironwood are examples of exotic hardwoods that can be used for decks. They are extremely hard, difficult to cut, are more expensive, but they last forever. Generally they do not need to be stained or finished but as with any natural wood they will turn gray as they age. Exotic hardwoods can be reclaimed from old decks and re-used.
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Deck boards can be nailed, screwed down or attached with hidden fasteners. Obviously nails or screws are visible where hidden fastening systems will give your deck a monolithic appearance much like a wood floor in your house.
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