Decking Materials: Composite, Wood, or Plastic?

Best Decking Material Options 2024 You’ll also want to prevent access underneath your deck so animals can’t nest there. For areas with intense sun and heat exposures, make sure to use a sealant with UV protectant,” he says. “It differs from a porch in that it’s not enclosed, and it does not extend to the roof of a structure,” Cosby says. Aluminum decking works very well in some situations like around swimming pools, but it has some drawbacks to consider as well. However, unlike PVC decking, it does not give off toxic chemicals as a result of its production. While not a substitute for a professional inspection, here are some things you can look for that might help you determine if your deck presents a significant safety risk.

Pros and Cons of Plastic Decking

Detached decks are particularly advantageous for creating usable areas in parts of your property with poor drainage. The size of the detached platform can be customized to suit your specific needs and budget. Aluminum decking is one of the smallest subsets for deck material, but it is a great option for some people. Because it is synthetic, it will not need constant maintenance like wood decking. It is not subject to rot and decay, nor does it attract insects. Detached decks are also known as floating decks, island decks, or platform decks. Wraparound decks are ideal for extending your living space and enjoying more than one outdoor view. They can enhance or add entry points to your home and allow you to bask in the sun and shade at different https://douploads.net/dfkfu7mc2wkm points of the day. It’s also worth noting that composite boards can be heavier than traditional lumber, so proper support must be in place during installation. Choosing the perfect deck for your home is an important decision that requires careful consideration. If you’re unsure about which type of deck would be most suitable for your needs, we recommend consulting with our knowledgeable team of experts. With their extensive experience in deck construction, they can assess your home, understand your preferences, and design a customized deck solution that fits your budget. Redwood decking is more expensive than pressure-treated wood and has about the same maintenance requirements.

Cedar Decking

Many deck injuries are caused when the deck guard fails and people who are leaning on the guard fall to the ground. Building codes have requirements about the force that a guard must resist, but the codes provide no guidance about how to build a guard to resist that force. Flashing is required between the deck and the house when the deck is attached to the house. Flashing helps keep water from entering between the deck and the house. Following the recent changes in building regulations, there’s a need to rethink decking and cladding options for use in high-rise building projects. Metal decking, particularly composite decking options, has evolved a lot in the past decade, and there’s a wide variety to choose from. This makes it resistant to rotting and wear but also closely resembles natural wood in appearance. You may not even be able to tell the difference when looking at completed decks. Deck size considerations should include space planning, budget constraints, aesthetic preferences and local building codes.

Proponents of composite decking tout it as a much-needed development, as it helps to curb logging of trees for new decks.This deck material is low maintenance and can last for years without needing replacement.Wraparound decks, often referred to as wraparound porches, provide ample outdoor space that can be accessed from multiple entry points in your home.For homeowners with spacious backyards, a detached deck can be an excellent choice.The railing system not only adds safety measures but also plays a key role in defining the overall style of your deck.

Building codes also have requirements for the height of deck guards above the deck flooring. A horizontal deck guard should be at least 36 inches tall, except in California, where the minimum height is 42 inches. Many manufacturers may use recycled materials in composites without affecting performance.

How to Choose the Right Kind of Pressure-Treated Lumber

Cellular PVC decking can last a lifetime with minimal maintenance. Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable and widely used decking material. It’s made from southern yellow pine infused with preservative chemicals to resist rot, decay, and insect infestation.