Selection of decking materials for your building has become a tedious task. This is largely due to the many factors that influence the selection of these materials. They include: budget, decking requirements, quality materials, etc. The task has only gotten steeper with more materials now used in this process. From plastics, composite and now even aluminum can be used in decking your home. Although the conventional material will always be wood, research into new alternatives have revealed a few benefits in terms of longevity, reliability and stability. Here are some popular options that you can consider:
Deck Material Options
Wood decking material
Wood remains the most common option for home decking for good reason. It is strong, reliable and comfortable under the feet. It however requires regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking its best. Due to its superior wood properties and extreme durability, blackbutt spotted gum decking remains to be the best option for any type of home.
Pressure treated wood
This decking option has a long lifespan of about 15 years and won’t cost a fortune. Routine maintenance for your pressure treated wood will reduce the risk of splinters and breakage. It is important to take safety precautions when maintaining your pressure treated wood as the chemicals in wood may because you harm.
Tropical hardwoods
Tropical hardwoods are known for their durability and dense structure which makes them excellent choices for patio decking. They are also known for their resistance to decay and insects. With a lifespan of over 25 years, these decking options are well worth their high price tag.
Redwood and cedar
This option is an improvement on pressure treated wood. Redwood is known for its fire resistant nature and its red brown design. However, it is no longer readily available for home decking. Redwood and Cedar share similarities in their ability to fend off insects and rot. Cedar however has a higher density than Redwood and so is able to withstand dents from constant use. Both these materials require refinishing after every three years to maintain their look.
Composite decking material
The closest decking material to wood in terms of appearance is composite. According to experts from Buy Ipe Direct, they are heavier and more expensive than wood decking and require constant scrubbing to prevent growth of mildew. Composites are also more temperature resistant than wood and are able to move depending on the temperature.
Plastic decking material
Environmentally friendly plastic is the main material used in the production of PVC vinyl plastic. This implies that this option is more durable and reliable than composite decking and would last for a very long time. It does not require much maintenance and is resistant against splinters.
There are different types of plastic decking material depending on design and quality and so the prices also vary.
Aluminum
Aluminum does not typically offer the same benefits that wood decking offers in terms of natural appearance of the material and comfort under your skin. However, aluminum offers eye catching aesthetics that gives your home a beautiful and stylish look. It is available in several colors depending on the design you want for your home. If you want a luxury design for your home, you may need to opt for Aluminum decking.