A few decades ago, homeowners who wished to build a deck had only nature-made wood (though the numerous soft- and hardwood species provided variety). Yet the modern market has supplemented traditional wood with pressure-treated lumber, composite lumber, PVC, and more. This diversity of options raises a question though: which materials create the best deck types? Determining the answer requires taking stock of your needs and weighing each option’s advantages.
Builders Fence Company’s professional deck contractors can help you answer such questions and realize your dream design. A well-respected institution working in Annandale, VA, Builders boasts an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. We pair exciting and creative project ideas with outstanding customer service for comprehensive value. Call (703) 997-9037 today and ask about a quote for your fencing or decking project.
Below, we list and describe 5 popular decking material options:
Hardwood & Pressure-Treated Wood
Determining the best decking type for your home requires you to consider a few questions first:
- What do you plan to use the space for?
- What kind of climate do you live in?
- What materials complement your home’s exterior design?
- What’s your budget?
Your answers will help you outline your prospective deck’s maintenance needs, visual appeal, functional role, and more. They can also help you narrow down your list of material options. Take hardwood, for example. Homeowners often choose lumber from a popular hardwood tree—oak, maple, hickory, birch, etc.—for its “old-fashioned” appeal or cost-effectiveness.
However, consider pressure-treated wood if you find classic hardwood less-than-durable or high-maintenance. Manufacturers inject this lumber with preservatives to increase their durability. Although less sturdy than composite and PVC, pressure-treated wood withstands use better than the average softwood without sacrificing natural beauty.
Composite & Mineral-Based Composite
Among the options in today’s market, composite decking has become fashionable for several reasons. First, its mixture of natural and synthetic materials (including wood fibers) lends it the appearance and texture of hardwood without that material’s maintenance requirements. Also, its composition negates any need for staining or sealing. Plus, composite decking offers extensive design options and flexibility.
Manufacturers have improved their work with mineral-based composite (MBC) decking, tweaking their formula to improve the original decking’s capabilities. MBCs can withstand temperature swings that warp and crack untreated hardwood. Moreover, MBCs have the best strength-to-weight ratio of all decking options. Nevertheless, composite and MBC decking exude heat when exposed to the hot sun all day.
PVC
At the opposite end of the spectrum from untreated hardwood, PVC decking is entirely synthetic. This composition gives it extra durability and few maintenance demands. It’s even more moisture-resistant than composite decking, with total protection from mold and insect damage.
Of the material options listed, PVC comes with the highest price tag. However, it’s also the most durable, so you can consider its purchase an investment in custom decking solutions and comfort. PVC also cools off faster than composite decking, which reduces the latter’s hot surface issues.
Best Deck Types for Annandale, VA, Residents
The best deck types for your home depend on your lifestyle and needs. Yet Builders Fence Company can help you determine the ideal materials and design, then bring those elements to life. Our team serves homeowners in and around Annandale, VA, with excellent craftsmanship and expertise. To learn more about our fencing and decking service options, call (703) 997-9037.
