The Main Types Of Decking Material To Consider

Decking Materials: Composite, Wood, or Plastic? Redwood is probably the most popular decking material in Northern California, where I live and work, but in much of the country, builders use various varieties of cedar instead. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) decking is as close to maintenance-free as decking will ever be. Unlike composite decking, PVC has no wood content to foster mold. Vinyl typically has a cellular core wrapped with a very hard layer of PVC much like the skin of a golf ball. Color options include white, gray, browns, tans, and even burgundy. After heat is applied, planks can be bent to make eye-catching inset designs. The cost of decking material ranges from $2–$45 per square foot. Pressure-treated wood is the least costly at $2–$5 per square foot, while composite decking costs between $12 and $22, and aluminum/metal costs between $15 and $20 per square foot. Attached decks come in all shapes and sizes, including square, rectangular, L-shaped, U-shaped, or custom-designed. They can also lead to fun Click to find out more outdoor features like a pergola or gazebo.

Is an Owner-Occupied Multifamily Home Right for You?

If you have a flat roof on the front or back of your home or your garage, a rooftop deck can create a standout outdoor living area, especially if you have limited yard space. Since it's an elevated deck, it provides privacy, unique vantage point, and often, an amazing view. Often built at the front of a home, an entryway deck extends your outdoor living space toward the street. If you don't have a front porch, an entryway deck can connect you with your neighbors or a beautiful front view.

The Different Types of Decks and Deck Materials

Look for “heartwood common,” which has more heartwood than the cheaper “construction common.” Expect annual refinishing and a life of 15 to 20 years. In addition, for wood to maintain its good looks, it needs annual cleaning and resealing. The chore is not overly expensive if you do it yourself, but it will cost a few hundred bucks if you have it done. Compare the pros and cons of installing a solid concrete deck footing using a cardboard tube or engineered forms. The clear heart grade is more durable than the other redwood grades because of its high-resistance to decay. Redwood is a soft wood and weathers to a yellowish-red very quickly.

Since it's an elevated deck, it provides privacy, unique vantage point, and often, an amazing view.For those who want more greenery on their decks, living walls are becoming increasingly popular.Whether it’s used to host the social event of the season, to have a family meal, or just to relax and watch the sunrise or sunset, a deck is a valuable part of many houses.You may not even be able to tell the difference when looking at completed decks.Fortunately, there are several waterproofing solutions available that can help protect your deck from water damage.

Winter is coming, and that means preparing your deck for the colder months. One of the first things you should do is clean your deck thoroughly. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that might have accumulated over time, making it easier for you to spot potential damage. In our next section, we’ll explore what qualities to look for when hiring the right contractor for your deck project. Keep reading for tips on ensuring your project meets all necessary requirements. As the name implies, a wraparound deck is an attached deck that connects to more than one side of your home and creates an expansive outdoor area. Most wraparound decks have railings and are slightly elevated to meet your home’s floor level. Maintenance requirements and design options can also impact installation time. In our next section, we’ll dive into how you can add privacy to your outdoor space using fencing and screening options.