Have you been wondering which type of deck will work best on your property?
Here’s why experts at Bay area Outdoor Living recommend Composite decking.
During the year 2020, due to the ongoing pandemic, people were quarantined and isolated within the walls of their homes. With more time on their hands, many chose to renovate and upgrade their residences. The most popular trend during this period was decking, and rightly so. Decks are a great way to elevate the aesthetics of your property and increase its value. It is a way to expand your living space to include more outdoor elements. A deck can be transformed into almost anything from entertainment lounges and kitchens to full-fledged dining areas with a BBQ grill.
Nowadays, many deck materials are available in the market according to customer needs and requirements. Each is more suited for a specific location, temperature, or design. If you have been toying around with the idea of installing a deck yourself, it is vital to understand these differences so you can choose a deck material that best fits your property.
Types of Decking
Pressure-treated Wooden Decks
Wooden decks are the most commonly used as they are the lowest in price, and the material costs about $2.34 per square ft. Pressure-treated wooden decks are made of Fir wood permeated with insecticides and anti-rot agents to preserve the wood and keep it from becoming a target of vermin infestations. It comes in the standard brown or tan color, which can be darkened with a stain.
Cedar Decking
Most people who intend to DIY their deck go for this type of wood as it is relatively easy to work with. This type of wood costs around $3.75 per square ft, excluding installation and labor charges. While the natural beauty of cedar wood remains unmatched, most forms of this wood are difficult to maintain and can rot within a few years.
Vinyl Decking
This is a more recently introduced decking material. It is rapidly gaining popularity due to its low-maintenance structure and durability. It has no wooden content and consists of a hollow or cellular core wrapped around with a layer of PVC. It comes in a variety of color options to match the aesthetics of your house, including brown, gray, white, and tan, and can last between 20-25 years. It costs $7.50 per square ft. for a hollow core and $9.50 for a solid core.
Composite Decking
This material is low-maintenance and comes in several different styles, textures, and colors. It combines the qualities of both wooden and plastic decks consisting of wood fibers mixed with recycled polyethylene. Composite decking is versatile and can be altered in multiple ways to blend in with surrounding materials. Moreover, composite decking has apparatus for heating, allowing users to bend planks and create eye-catching unique designs. Costs $7.80 per square ft.
How Is Composite Decking Better?
Of the many different decks available in the market, composite decking is the most feasible in terms of longevity, maintenance, and costs. It is the type of decking that most experts recommend you install. Here’s why
- Unlike complete wooden decking, it isn’t subjected to rot and vermin infestations and can last for up to 3 decades without any excessive maintenance.
- They don’t require anti-rot treatments, which contain arsenic and lead, often damaging residents’ health.
- While more expensive than wood, it is far cheaper than PVC decking, making it relatively affordable. It is a long-term investment.
- Closely resembles authentic wood, offers better slip resistance, and is less prone to warping due to extreme temperatures.
- Comes in multiple textures and shades, giving it a modern appearance.
Let Experts at Bay Area Outdoor Living help you install the deck of your dreams!
If you live in the Danville area and are on the hunt for reputable deck installation services, reach us at Bay Area Outdoor Living. Our professionals have years of experience in understanding each client’s unique needs, creating a deck that blends right into their property.
