If you’re considering adding an outdoor deck to your renovation to-do list, one of the first steps is to choose your building materials. With so many options available, making the best choice for your outdoor living space might seem like a daunting task.
Here is a basic guide of the most popular deck materials to help you get started:
Cedar is commonly regarded as one of the most high-quality building materials for outdoor decks. It’s an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts interested in building their own deck, as it’s lightweight and easy to work with.
While it does require regular refinishing, this dense and weather-resistant wood is naturally impervious to pests and decay.
Other natural wood options include exotic hardwoods like Ipe. Similarly to cedar, these decking options have natural defense against pests like termites and damage from rot.
The density of hardwood makes it extremely long-lasting, though it is heavier and more expensive than other materials.
Pressure-treated wood, or PT wood, is the most common outdoor deck material. Pressure-treated lumber is infused with chemicals that improve its resistance to pests and rot. These chemicals help preserve the natural aspect and durability while keeping the cost down.
PT wood is widely available, affordable and can be easily stained to match your specific color preferences.
Composite decking is made of multiple materials combined to form an affordable and easy-care decking material. While it’s not technically wood, most composite materials mimic the appearance of real wood decking to achieve the same natural aesthetic.
Composite material has some great advantages, such as being weather-resistant and long-lasting. With practically no maintenance, some composite wooden decks can last up to 25 years or more.
However, quality and appearance can vary from one brand to the next. Price can also vary depending on manufacturer. So, it’s important to research your options and make sure you’re getting the best deck for your buck.
These are the most commonly used outdoor decking materials. While each has their advantages and disadvantages, the choice of what to use for your deck design depends on your personal preference.
No matter what materials you choose, you can add in features like built-in seating, a hot tub, swimming pool, fire pit and potted plants. Whether you want your deck to be an outdoor dining area, a cozy gathering space for guests or a personal outdoor oasis, knowing the material options will help you make the best decision.
Lana Harris is a Chicago native who is a second-generation real estate professional. She was introduced to real estate at a very young age while attending open houses with her mother who is a broker. She honed her skills assisting in property searches (back in the thick, Multiple Listing Service book days,) and using map reading skills to help plan property tour sequencing. Lana’s love of working with people and delivering strong customer service led her to the retail sector, where she developed her management skills at MC Sports, Ann Taylor, and Adidas. She and her husband moved to Utah in 2008 to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains, and she began her real estate career here in 2015. Most recently, she was a VP of sales for a large team; she thrives on challenges and is determined to overcome obstacles to achieve results for her clients. Lana and her husband enjoy their three large dogs, skiing, camping and paddleboarding.
