Are you building a deck? You want to choose a solid material that won’t require constant upkeep, but you also need it to be affordable. With so many options available, it can be hard to know which is the best for you. Here are some options for materials you can use to build your deck.
Lumber
Lumber for decks is generally broken down into two different categories: pressure-treated and naturally stable. Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable option for deck building. The wood is treated to resist rot, bugs, and fungus, but it doesn’t hold up well in the weather without yearly cleanings and stains.
A naturally stable wood, such as cedar, redwood or bamboo, is also popular for building decks. While it has a slightly higher price point than pressure-treated wood, it is still affordable. Cedar and redwood are the most popular choices because of their rich colors, and they only require a new finish every three to four years. Whether you’re using planks of wood or bison wood tiles, talk to your lumber supplier before you start the deck to ensure they have enough material on hand.
Aluminum
Aluminum decking is often overlooked, but it’s one of the strongest, lightest, most weather-resistant options available. The powder-coat finish usually never has to be replaced, and you never have to worry about bugs eating it. Furthermore, aluminum actually stays cooler in the heat than most other types of decking. However, it is the most expensive option at about $10 a linear foot.
Composite
Because of its longevity and the fact that it requires virtually no maintenance, composite is quickly becoming the most popular option for decking. The composite comes in many different colors and is designed to look like wood. Composite doesn’t rot in the weather and doesn’t require sanding or staining. Composite costs about three times more than pressure-treated wood, but it might be worth it because of how long it lasts and how much time it will save you from yearly repairs and restaining.
