Decking Options
Time to renovate that outside space of yours? Ready to build a patio or deck you’ve always been dreaming of? Great. For starters, the main importance is figuring out materials you want. The past couple years the options have vastly increased from only cedar or redwood to synthetic materials such as composite and tropical hardwoods. Sometimes the only factor in choosing your materials is aesthetic, how the material will look wrapped around your home. But most importantly, pricing.
Decking Upgrade Options
Hidden Fasteners – Since nails are prone to popping out over time, screws have been the leading deck fasteners of choice in the past. Until now. Hidden fasteners keep the surface looking sleek while firmly gripping the decking to the joists. Although this option is labor-intensive, it leaves the decking material looking elegant and clean with no screw holes that are prone to splinters and trapping dirt.
Planters – Give your deck some character by adding various shapes and sizes. Typically these planters are made out of the same material used for the deck and they can be used to separate seating, decoration and/or privacy. Custom built-in’s aren’t your only option, you can find various colors and styles of all shapes and sizes at your local home centers.
Cable Railings – Typically with any deck more than 2 feet above ground is required to have a railing. This being the most visible portion of your deck, it may either be complementary to your deck, or an eye sore that distracts from your surroundings. Here come cable railings. Although this option is more expensive than your usual wood railing, if preserving the view is your main concern then this is a great option.
Shade Sails – A more cost effective way to shade your deck from the sun with less maintenance. Shade sails come in many different colors and shapes/sizes. Made from a knitted polyethylene fabric that’s UV-resistant, shade sales make for an attractive addition to your deck that will also serve a great shade barrier. The fabric allows for a muted sun exposure, no more glare from the full sunlight. A professional installation is recommended.
When you’re pricing out a new deck, you also need to factor in the longevity of the material as well as the maintenance needed to keep it looking beautiful and pristine. Wood decks need to be cleaned and resealed every few years whereas some other synthetic materials need nearly no maintenance.
PT Wood
Permeated with anti-rot and insecticides this decking is a low-cost favorite. Available only in the tan/brown colors but can be enhanced with stain. The longevity of this option can last for decades but needs to be sealed or stained every couple years.
Materials approx. $2.35/sq. ft.
PT Wood
Permeated with anti-rot and insecticides this decking is a low-cost favorite. Available only in the tan/brown colors but can be enhanced with stain. The longevity of this option can last for decades but needs to be sealed or stained every couple years.
Materials approx. $2.35/sq. ft.
IPE-Hardwood
A South American hardwood naturally rot resistant, very hard and durable. Labor-intensive because of the hard nature and needs to be maintained by resealing it every year. It’s beauty and strength will stay for about 25 years.
Materials approx. $12/sq. ft.
Redwood
Now only available on the West coast, this option is expensive but strong, lightweight and easy labor. The dark colored parts of the wood is naturally rot-resistant as opposed to the cream-colored sapwood which deteriorates when left in the elements.
Materials approx. $7.75/sq. ft.
Vinyl-Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
This one’s the “new kid” and quickly becoming a favorite because of it’s (close to) maintenance-free. Or as close to it as it will come. Vinyl has a cellular core that is wrapped on the exterior with a solid PVC layer and it comes with a 25-year warranty.
Material approx. $5.95/sq. ft.
Cedar
Inexpensive, naturally beautiful and easy to work with, cedar is unmatched. Go for the darker woods as opposed to the lighter colored “sapwood” which can deteriorate in the elements within a few years. Annual maintenance needed, lifespan 15-20 years.
Materials approx. $2.35/sq. ft.
