What Is the Most Durable Deck Material? -

No matter where you live in the United States, having the opportunity to be outside—while also at home—is both a luxury and an essential. If you're considering building a deck on your property, it's critical to consider the material's quality and the construction's longevity. After all, you want your investment to last through the seasons. With many options available, deciding which material to use all comes down to the specific variables of your unique space.

What to Consider When Building a Deck

A deck attaches to your home, meaning it will become an integrated and vital part of your daily life. Homeowners should consider several factors when thinking about what their deck will be like, including:

• Appearance: Choose a deck that aligns and harmonizes with the current home design, including architectural style.
• Use: Is the space for hosting friends? Is it for relaxing, reading, and doing yoga? Does it need to be kid-friendly?
• Weather: Consider the weather in your area, including sun exposure, humidity, and strong winds or heavy snow. 
• Maintenance: How much time, resources, and money can you realistically allocate to caring for your deck?
• Cost: What is your budget?

Take time to write down your needs, constraints, and the reality of your lifestyle. It may be tempting to choose a material that looks and feels a certain way, but if you're unable to maintain it, it will only last for a while and will need to be replaced or torn down.

Consider the natural wear and tear the deck may take from your region's climate (for example, in Nashville, you may not need to consider the constant weight of snow in the winter, whereas in Colorado, you do) or from the activities that family members and guest may perform on the deck (such as swimming or cooking).

Types of Deck Material

Several base materials are available for constructing a deck that will last through the years. Each material has pros and cons; some options come down to preference.

Wood

Two common wood materials are used in deck construction: natural wood and pressure-treated wood. Natural wood decks are usually made from Tropical Hardwood, Redwood, Cedar, or Mahogany, while pressure-treated wood is often Pine-based.

Pressure-treated wood is more affordable but also prone to splintering. If you anticipate having a lot of bare feet on your deck, consider opting for a different material unless you can consistently maintain the wood.

Natural wood decks often boast a cleaner finish but are more expensive. All wood decking material requires regular maintenance to avoid decay.

Composite

Composite decks may look similar to wood decks, but the material differs. Composite material is a combination of plastic and leftover wood fibers.

Composite wood resembles a natural wood finish but is more durable and expensive. It does not splinter, so it's a good option for decks that may receive much traffic from children or pets. It's also easier to care for and suitable for different types of weather—although it does tend to fade in direct sunlight.

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Aluminum

Aluminum decks look fabulous. Anodized aluminum material is also great for building decks in all weather locations, with an expectation for coastal regions, as aluminum is weak to salt water. It's durable, easy to maintain, and comes with a mid-range price point.

Aluminum is bare-foot friendly, even in high temperatures, and it does not splinter. It's also easy to clean, making it a good option for all busy households, including those with pets, parties, and a high spill probability.

Deck Construction: D.Y.I. or Professional?

D.Y.I. projects can provide excitement, challenge, or bonding moments in your household. While simple D.Y.I. projects save you money, homeowners should consider complex projects more carefully. Many factors could complicate the project when building a deck, including height regulations, foundational concerns, and the wide variety of options available.

Once you've decided what kind of deck you're looking for and have thoroughly considered your options, it's recommended that you reach out to a custom deck builder to help you create your dream deck. Whatever material you decide on, having a professional by your side can increase the chances of building a deck that will last many decades.

Conclusion

A deck can increase the quality of your life at home—think about how cozy, relaxing, and enjoyable the space can be for you, your family, and your friends. It can also increase the value of your property should you decide to sell in the future. That said, not all deck materials are created equally. Some require considerable maintenance, some have a higher price point, and some could pose safety concerns for little feet or paws. Always consult a professional before embarking on a deck project, and don't forget that it's an investment. 

Related Articles

• How to Choose the Right Deck Builder for Your Home Project
• Create a Cozy Outdoor Retreat: Composite Decking Ideas for Small Spaces
• How To Build A Deck On A Budget: Materials And Design Ideas