Decking is an essential part of any outdoor space, providing a platform for entertainment, relaxation and even enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home. The choice of decking material significantly influences the overall look, durability and maintenance level of your deck. Professional contractors use various types of materials depending on the client’s preferences, budget, and climatic conditions.
One popular decking material is pressure-treated wood due to its affordability and availability. This type of wood undergoes treatment with chemicals that resist rotting and insects’ invasion, increasing its lifespan significantly. Despite requiring regular maintenance such as staining or painting to prevent weather damages, pressure-treated wood remains a favorite among many homeowners.
Another common decking material used by professional contractors is natural hardwood. Hardwoods like teak or ipe are incredibly durable with high resistance to wear and tear due to their dense nature. They also offer an unmatched natural beauty that can add significant value to a home’s exterior design. However, hardwoods require regular oiling or sealing to maintain their appearance.
Composite decking is another popular choice among professionals due to its low-maintenance characteristics and longevity compared with traditional wood decks. Composed mainly from recycled plastic and wood fibers, composite decks resist fading, staining, scratching, mold growth while offering a variety of color options mimicking real wood grains.
Aluminum decking is gaining popularity among contractors because it offers unique benefits not found in other materials like being lightweight yet robust enough to withstand extreme weather conditions without warping or cracking over time. It also features an interlocking design that creates a waterproof barrier below the deck builder surface – perfect for second-story decks.
Professional contractors may also opt for vinyl or PVC decking materials known for their exceptional resistance against moisture damage compared with wooden alternatives making them ideal for areas prone to heavy rainfall or near bodies of water such as pools or lakesides.
Lastly but certainly not least are exotic woods which include species like tigerwood and cumaru highly praised for their striking natural colors, grain patterns and extreme durability. These woods are naturally resistant to rot and insects but like hardwoods, they require regular maintenance to keep their vibrant colors from fading due to sunlight exposure.
Choosing the right decking material is a critical decision that can significantly affect your deck’s performance and lifespan. It’s always advisable to consult with a professional contractor who understands different materials’ pros and cons before making any decisions. They will consider factors such as your budget, lifestyle, location, design preferences, and maintenance commitment ensuring you get a deck that suits all your needs perfectly.
Delight Decking
6006 S Ferdinand St, Tacoma, WA 98407
253-329-1209
