If you’re looking for a new addition to your home, a deck would be a great investment. It’ll expand your outdoor living space and give you plenty of reasons to spend more time outside. It’ll boost your home’s curb appeal and value as well. You can customize a deck in numerous ways to make it fit your lifestyle, and you can modify it over time as your needs change.
Of course, finding the best material for your deck is essential. It’ll affect the look of the deck and how much use you get out of your new home addition. Your choice of material can also determine how much upkeep the deck will need. Several materials are available for decks, patios, and other outdoor additions. Take a look at some of the most popular options and their pros and cons to help you choose the right one for you.
1) Composite
Composite is one of the most popular materials for decks right now and with good reason. It’s available in numerous colors, and it looks like painted or stained wood. It’s made from a combination of wood, plastic, and other components. Its composition makes it sturdy and resistant to the elements, so it can handle heavy loads, constant use, moisture, and other hazards. It doesn’t warp, crack, or decay the way wood does. At the same time, composite deck materials don’t require a lot of upkeep other than occasional cleanings. Capped composite decking lasts even longer and resists pests and the elements even more effectively.
2) Wood
Wood is the traditional material for decks. It comes in numerous forms, including hardwoods, softwoods, and pressure-treated lumber. Because of the different varieties available and the many finishing options at your disposal, it’s extremely versatile. It’s less expensive than composite upfront, but it requires a great deal of maintenance. That includes resealing at least once every three years and making repairs as needed. Those maintenance requirements drive up long-term costs. Wood decks generally last 10 to 15 years with regular maintenance, but some hardwoods can last a bit longer.
3) PVC
PVC is yet another popular material for decks. Unlike wood and composite, it’s entirely synthetic. It’s a type of plastic. That means it’s impervious to pests, moisture, and mold. It can last 50 years or more, and it doesn’t require ongoing maintenance. PVC is lightweight, but it’s also strong. It’s one of the most expensive deck materials upfront, but its longevity and lack of maintenance need to balance the scales. PVC decking is available in a wide variety of colors. It doesn’t like natural wood, but it’s a common choice for homeowners because of its strong suits. Some types of PVC can retain heat and may warp when exposed to prolonged high temperatures.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Deck
Decks make wonderful additions to homes, but choosing the right material for them is the key to maximizing your return on investment. Composite, wood, and PVC are all popular choices. Wood is less expensive upfront. It’s available in several varieties, and it can be painted, stained, or simply sealed to allow its natural color and grain to show through. Still, it requires ongoing attention. PVC and composite last longer and don’t require the same level of maintenance, but they’re more expensive initially. Consider the factors mentioned here to help you find the best material for your new deck.