Ryan Johnson
Table of Contents
Building or replacing your deck is a major investment, so choosing the right materials is key to getting the most value, enjoyment and longevity from your outdoor space. There are many decking options to consider from natural wood to composites, plastics and beyond. As a contractor with 15 years of experience building decks, I’ve become very familiar with the pros and cons of various decking materials. Here’s an in-depth look at today’s most popular deck building materials to help you make the best choice.
Natural Wood Decking
Wood remains a beloved decking material thanks to its beauty, versatility and value. Many types of wood have natural durability, richness and ability to be refinished.
Cedar
With its distinctive red tone, water resistance and affordability, cedar is one of the most popular wood decking options. It’s relatively easy to maintain with periodic sealing. Cedar holds up well to weather but is softer and can scratch or dent over time. Staining cedar can help prolong its life.
Pressure-Treated Pine
For an incredibly inexpensive deck option, pressure-treated pine can’t be beat. The preservative chemicals protect the soft wood from rot and pests. But frequent sealing is required and it lacks the beauty of other woods.
Redwood
Redwood has a naturally reddish-pink hue and resistance to insects, warping and rot. But redwood is expensive and not as durable as other premium tropical woods. Frequent sealing is recommended to keep redwood looking its best.
Tropical Hardwoods
Exotic decking like ipe, tigerwood, and garapa offer exceptional strength, rich coloration, slip resistance and longevity. Dense hardwoods resist wear, weather, mold and pests. But tropical decking is pricey and can fade to gray without yearly sealer.
Composite Decking
Composite deck boards blend plastic and recycled wood particles or fibers to create durable, splinter-free decking. Popular brands include Trex, TimberTech and Fiberon.
Pros
- Little maintenance required
- Won’t rot, crack or warp
- Resists mold, mildew and insects
- No splintering; safe for bare feet
- Many color and pattern options
Cons
- Hotter underfoot than wood
- Can fade, stain and scratch over time
- Not sustainably sourced lumber
- Higher cost than pressure-treated
PVC Decking
PVC deck boards like AZEK are made fully from cellular PVC plastic. They retain the look of real wood without the upkeep.
Pros:
- Extremely low maintenance
- Won’t splinter, rot or warp
- Resistant to mold, stains and pests
- Cooler underfoot than composites
- Long warranty coverage
Cons:
- Very expensive upfront
- Can still stain and scratch
- Develops a plastic-like sheen over time
- Not eco-friendly or reusable
Alternative Decking Materials
For a unique deck, go beyond traditional wood and plastic with these innovative options:
Aluminum
Lightweight, recyclable and naturally corrosion-resistant, aluminum decking needs no sealing or staining. But it conducts heat, can dent, is slippery when wet and has high upfront cost.
Poured Concrete
Concrete makes a stylish, durable surface that needs minimal maintenance. But it requires complex installation and can crack, stain and get slippery. Using textured finishes reduces slips.
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Impervious to weather and super easy-care, ceramic and porcelain tile create a high-end patio look. But tile decking is very costly to install and the grout lines easily stain.
Natural Stone
Slate, bluestone, travertine and sandstone have unrivaled beauty and longevity when used for deck tiles or pavers. But niche stone varieties are expensive and some types stain easily without yearly sealing.
Key Considerations When Choosing Decking
Beyond the materials themselves, keep these factors in mind when selecting your perfect decking:
Usage
Consider your deck’s purpose and location. For high traffic areas, prioritize durability. For poolside decks, opt for slip-resistant woods. Pick softer, more affordable materials for less heavily used spaces.
Climate
In hot, sunny regions, heat-conductive plastics and metals can get uncomfortably hot. In snowy areas, certain decking can become slippery. Select weather-resistant materials suited to your conditions.
Appearance
Do you want an ornate, exotic hardwood look? Or a casual, painted deck? Match your decking’s aesthetics and color to your home’s style. Composite and PVC offer many color options.
Eco-Friendliness
If using green building materials is important to you, look for FSC-certified woods, recycled content composites or locally sourced stone. Or choose durable options like tropical hardwoods that won’t need replacing.
Cost
Pressure-treated pine is the most budget-friendly decking, while exotic hardwoods and alternative materials like aluminum cost exponentially more. Composites fall in the mid-range for price.
Installation
Some deck materials like poured concrete require hiring specialized pros. DIY-friendly options include wood, composite and PVC deck boards that use traditional framing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which decking requires the least maintenance?
PVC and composite deck boards need almost no sealing, staining or refinishing over their lifespan. Porcelain and stone tiles are also zero-maintenance options.
Hidden fasteners allow smooth deck surfaces while open-joint boards shed water easier. Both systems work well if installed properly. Apply sealant inside open-joint boards regularly to prevent rot.
Can I stain or paint composite decking?
While composites don’t require staining, you can apply specially formulated opaque composite deck stains to change or revitalize the color. Do not use wood stains.
Does treated lumber last as long as alternative decking?
No, materials like composites, PVC and hardwoods significantly outlast pressure-treated pine’s lifespan of just 10-15 years. But treated wood is much more affordable.
Should decking be installed on an angle or perpendicular to the house?
Angled deck boards promote water runoff. But perpendicular boards expand your deck’s usable square footage. Either orientation works fine.
Is Trex decking worth the money?
Overall, yes – Trex offers durability, beauty and low maintenance. It provides an excellent balance of quality and value in the composite decking category.
Can I install composite decking over an existing wood deck?
Yes, composite and PVC deck boards can be installed directly over a sound, flat wood structure. The added height is usually not an issue.
How long do composite deck boards typically last?
Quality composites have a lifespan of 25-30 years. With periodic cleaning and sealing, they can last even longer before needing replacement.
What is the best wood for decking steps?
Use a durable, grooved hardwood like ipe or tigerwood for stairs. The grooves improve traction. Apply a non-slip sealer and avoid domestic soft woods prone to rotting.
Can you use cedar decking for the ground in a garden?
Absolutely! With proper base preparation, rot-resistant cedar makes an attractive and budget-friendly border for garden beds. Seal the bottom of boards contacting soil.
Conclusion
The perfect decking material for you depends on your lifestyle, priorities, climate and budget. But armed with the facts, you can make an informed decision on which options are best for your unique deck. Carefully installed and maintained, high-quality decking materials will provide a comfortable outdoor living space you can enjoy for decades.
