An Overview of Outdoor Decking Materials
Outdoor decking materials can be a confusing task because so many options are available. Outdoor decking is a popular addition to many homes as it adds a comfortable and stylish space to the outdoors. For your deck's durability, aesthetic appeal, and safety, you must choose the right materials. We'll look at some of the best materials for outdoor decking in this article, along with why they make excellent choices.
Pressure-Treated Wood
Due to its low cost, wide availability, and simplicity of use, pressure-treated wood is a preferred option for outdoor decking. Chemicals are used to treat wood, making it incredibly strong, long-lasting, and resistant to rot, insects, and decay. To maintain its appearance, pressure-treated wood only needs to be cleaned and sealed occasionally. However, the chemicals used in pressure-treated wood can be bad for the environment and even for human health, especially when used in construction.
Cedar and Redwood
Cedar and redwood are the most popular natural wood choices. They’ve made a name for being naturally beautiful, strong, and bug-resistant. The natural oils make them less likely to split or warp over. These woods only need the occasional cleaning and sealing to maintain their colour and guard against deterioration. Redwood and cedar may not be as widely available and are pricier than pressure-treated wood.
Composite Decking
Composite decking made from a combination of wood fibres and plastic makes it a popular alternative to natural wood. Composite decking is incredibly long-lasting and low-maintenance, requiring only sporadic cleaning to keep it looking good. It is also resistant to moisture, insects, and decay making it long-lasting. Composite decking can be customized to match the design of any home. Composite decking, however, costs more than pressure-treated wood and may be trickier to work with because it calls for specialized equipment and methods.
PVC Decking
Another well-liked 100% plastic alternative to real wood is PVC decking. PVC decking is incredibly long-lasting and low-maintenance; all that's needed to keep it looking good is the occasional cleaning. It is a durable option because it is also resistant to moisture, insects, and decay. PVC decking can be customized to match the design of any home thanks to the variety of colours and finishes it comes in. PVC decking is also environmentally friendly because it uses recycled materials. PVC decking, on the other hand, is the priciest choice on this list and not as natural looking as wood decking.
Aluminium Decking
Aluminium decking is a relatively new option for outdoor decking that is gaining popularity due to its durability and low maintenance. Aluminium decking is a common option for do-it-yourself projects because it is lightweight and simple to install. It is a durable option for outdoor decking because it is also resistant to moisture, insects, and decay. Aluminium decking is also non-slip and fire-resistant, making it a safe option. However, aluminium decking is the priciest choice on this list and might not look as natural as wood decking.
It's important to think about aspects like durability, aesthetics, maintenance, and safety when selecting the right materials for your outdoor decking. The best option will depend on your unique needs and available budget, as each material has advantages and disadvantages. You should think about using pressure-treated wood, cedar and redwood, composite decking, PVC decking, or aluminium decking for your outdoor deck.
Our aesthetically sound staffs at Prestige Decks and Pergolas is available to assist you if you're planning to construct a new outdoor deck or upgrade an existing one including the best materials selection according to your needs and requirements.