A Guide to the Most Common Types of Decks

Deck Materials Composite & Wood It’s also easy to find, cut, and work with, although precautions, such as a mask, must be taken while sawing or drilling to avoid inhalation of chemicals. In addition, scraps should not be burned to avoid releasing chemical vapors. Also called vinyldecking, PVC decking boards are a popular synthetic choice for busy spaces where pets and kids spend time. Unlike composite decking, vinyl decking is entirely synthetic and doesn’t include any wood material. The Forest Stewardship Council (us.fsc.org) does its level best to monitor https://rumble.com/user/clearviewbuildersinc/about how exotics are managed and certifies producers who harvest responsibly. Even so, some deck experts are doubtful of anything harvested offshore and prefer the known provenance of North American woods. You’ll be able to open the exterior door of your home and step directly onto your deck. Consider how you want your deck to look and what you plan to use it for.

In construction, the term “metal decking” is often tossed around.Pressure-treated lumber is the most prevalent and cost-effective option.Most U.S. commercial building codes require a 1,100 mm (42 in) guardrail on decks, and 910 or 1,070 mm (36 or 42 in) for a residential code depending on the state.Pressure-treated wood usually has a warranty against decay and termite damage, in most cases for the lifetime of the original purchaser.Work with a local deck builder to ensure your dream deck meets the necessary code requirements in your area.

Redwood and Cedar

This perennial favorite is inexpensive, easy to work with, and good looking. Don’t waste your money on anything but heartwood—sapwood will rot quickly. Again, the above measures are due to our concern in response to the dynamic nature of the COVID-19 virus and the safety guidance surrounding it. The cost of installation varies based on deck size and the specific material chosen. Concrete and stone decks are particularly suitable for compact ground-level spaces, offering seamless integration with the natural surroundings and adding value to the property. However, due to their weight, they are not recommended for raised or elevated structures. High-rise commercial and residential buildings with rooftop decks often utilize urban landscaping techniques to create "green spaces" or "sky parks". Learn how composite decking is made from recycled materials at Decks.com. PVC's cost and lack of recycled content are its main limitations. That said, PVC decking has less recycled content than other synthetic choices (some are 100% virgin).

Choosing the Right Deck for You

To further enhance your deck’s durability against water damage, consider exploring coatings and sealants designed specifically for decks. These products provide an extra layer of protection against UV rays, foot traffic, and other environmental factors that can weaken the wood over time. Additionally, building codes outline minimum standards for design, materials used, structural integrity, and more. These codes serve as guidelines for ensuring quality throughout the entire installation process. This material is resistant to rot, mold, and insects, making it a great choice for use in harsh outdoor environments. However, this durability does come with a higher cost compared to some other options on the market. It is important to note that deck construction can be complex and should ideally be carried out by experienced professionals or under the guidance of a skilled contractor. Working with knowledgeable experts will help ensure that the deck is built properly, adheres to local regulations, and provides a safe and enjoyable outdoor space for years to come. It’s important to choose a material that aligns with your preferences, budget, and the specific requirements of your project. Consulting with a professional contractor or engineer can help ensure you select the appropriate material for your deck construction. Once the very last word in decking, redwood is expensive and now available only on the West Coast. Select only high-grade decking lumber with little of the cream-colored sapwood, which can deteriorate rapidly when exposed to the elements. However, since it's plastic, PVC decking doesn't break down naturally, making it durable with minimal maintenance. Because it has no organic material, PVC decking is highly resistant to water, mold, mildew, and insect damage. If you’re looking for a reliable metal decking supplier, get in touch with us today. Whatever your project requires, we can provide a composite steel decking to suit. We have metal decks in stock at 30 locations, so you can expect timely delivery no matter where you’re located. They can blend well with the home's surroundings and raise property value. However, these materials are heavy, so they are not ideal for raised or elevated structures. The high cost of composite decking is partially offset by the maintenance requirements, or lack of them. Most composite products require little to no maintenance — no staining, sanding or resealing — and they resist color fading and generally outlast wood decking. A few products will accept a stain after a period of exposure to the sun (usually about six months). As mentioned, metal decking has a high strength-to-weight ratio, meaning you can expect to work with less weight in your projects. Form decking is popular because its economical and assumes a permanent form. In other words, it doesn’t have to be removed when the concrete is cured. Unlike a concrete deck, a metal form deck doesn’t have embossment. It’s installed over steel beams and joints and supports wet concrete. Once the metal floor deck is laid down, concrete is poured to create a strong foundation.