Your Guide to All Types of Decks: How To Choose a Deck for Your Home

A Guide to the Most Common Types of Decks Wood flour is the key difference between wood-plastic composite (WPC), top left, and PVC decking, bottom left. Wood flour can attract mold, leading some manufacturers to “co-extrude” a hard plastic cap on composite to at least one side of the plank. PVC always has a cap, and less expensive brands of composite have none at all. This is a traditional style of deck and often called a wraparound porch. Unlike a porch, though, your deck can have varying shapes and levels. For those who want even more control over their outdoor lighting experience, smart lighting options may be worth looking into. With features like voice-activated commands and customizable settings via smartphone apps, these systems offer unparalleled convenience and customization. Regardless of which option you choose, it’s important to follow manufacturer instructions carefully to ensure proper installation and maximum safety. From traditional wood or metal balusters to sleek glass panels, there are many material options available to fit any aesthetic preference. Another important aspect of designing a safe and attractive outdoor space is choosing the right railing system. When considering where to build your deck, several factors come into play.

Any lumber you purchase should have a grade stamp, which provides info about the characteristics of the wood.Like the curtains that adorn our homes, outdoor curtains add a touch of elegance and privacy to your deck.Metal decking combined with a concrete slab and a steel frame forms a lightweight, cost-effective floor construction that doesn’t require props.The post-and-beam construction relies on posts anchored to piers in the ground.After heat is applied, planks can be bent to make eye-catching inset designs.

Features

In addition, these boards can be recycled after use which gives them a smaller environmental impact than wood boards. Larger buildings may also have decks on the upper floors of the building which can be open to the public as observation decks or greeneries. A deck is also the surface used to construct a boardwalk over sand on barrier islands. Tropical hardwoods such as ipe, cumaru, and red balau are prized for their exceptional durability and rich colors. Zoning laws regulate land use and can dictate how far away from property lines a structure must be built. Built-in seating is a popular feature for decks because it provides ample seating without taking up extra space. Whether you opt for benches or corner seats with cushions, built-in seating ensures that everyone has a place to sit while enjoying the outdoors. Additionally, maintenance requirements are minimal due to its resistance against wear and tear over time. Although it comes with a higher price tag, concrete or stone decking stands out as the most durable option. Each option has its unique aesthetic appeal, maintenance requirements, and other important considerations to https://audio.com/clear-view-builders/audio/clear-view-builders-contact-us-for-comprehensive-construction-services-in-sacramento keep in mind when choosing. Deciding which decking material option is right for you comes down to both personal and practical tastes. Building a deck is a valuable investment that not only enhances the aesthetics of your property but also provides a functional and enjoyable outdoor living space. The best decking materials for your yard will be durable and fit both your budget and style. Create a new outdoor living space to enjoy year-roundor refinish your current deckwith new wood, composite or syntheticdecking. If you choose to resurface your deck, know exactly how much material you’ll need with our deck resurfacing project calculator.

Pros and Cons of Aluminum Decking

When it comes to color options and durability factors, there are many choices available on the market today. Composite decking offers an array of colors that stay vibrant longer due to their resistance to fading caused by UV rays. On the other hand, natural woods offer unique patterns and textures that cannot be replicated with man-made products. 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, synthetic decking (aka PVC) also has an impressive life span of up to 50 years with proper maintenance. PVC may be the way to go here because ipe recently got added to the CITES Appendices of endangered species, so trade will be heavily regulated, and prices may soon increase. A multi-tier or two-story deck has more than one level, typically with one level attached to your home. Multi-level decks are great for a large property or one with varying heights (i.e. tricky terrain, hills, or rocky landscaping). Built-in steps or pathways often connect the different tiers for a cohesive outdoor space, making it easier to entertain guests for summer barbecues and cocktail hours. They can be difficult to do as a DIY project unless you have previous deck-building experience, and it’ll add quite a bit to your total home renovation cost. But, if you want to make a deck that makes a statement, it’s hard to beat a multi-level deck. As you consider your budget-friendly options for decking material and installation methods, keep in mind how different designs can also affect overall cost. The next section will explore the pros and cons of platform versus multi-level decks and help guide you towards designing the perfect outdoor oasis within your desired price range. One major advantage of composite decking is its low-maintenance requirements. If lowering your carbon footprint is important to you, contact the manufacturer for information. Many composite hues resemble wood and are scratch-resistant, but performance varies by manufacturer and price. The American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) is a non-profit organization that has long set the standards for treated wood used in residential and commercial applications. The AWPA classifies wood treatment types according to where and how they can be used. Always check the tags on the end of the boards to get critical information about the pressure treatment.