Having a deck in the backyard can extend your living space, become a place for entertaining, and add value to your home. Whether it’s a first-time installation or will be replacing an older, out-of-date, or damaged deck, there are quite a few decisions to make before getting started with the project.
A primary decision when designing a deck is where to place it. Most backyard decks are attached directly to the home. Others may have a pathway that leads to a floating-style separate space offset from the home.
Another key decision is choosing the size of the deck and what shape you’d like it to take. Do you want a traditional square or rectangular shape? Perhaps you prefer to go against the grain by having a unique deck with walk-out surfaces, or opt for an unusual shape that you love.
However, one of the biggest decisions to make before having a deck installed is choosing a material that suits your taste and complements the home. When deciding, knowing which are the most reliant and in your budget is vital. Here’s what homeowners need to know when considering the various decking material options.
Why It’s Important to Choose the Right Deck Material
There are three primary options concerning decking material: treated wood, composite, and exotic hardwoods. You’ll want to research all the possibilities and know what the pros and cons of each one are. Some choices are low-maintenance, while others tend to need more upkeep to keep them looking great and remaining functional. You’ll also need to decide which colors and textures and any pattern-style layout to get an estimate.
Wood Decking
Wood decking is a top choice for those who want a natural and traditional look without breaking the bank on materials. As the least expensive decking option, homeowners should be aware that they require a good bit of maintenance to keep them looking and functioning great over the years.
Pressure-treated lumber is coated with chemicals like insecticides and anti-rot coatings, which improve its durability. It’s fairly easy to install, cut, and work with in general. Should you want a hue other than the natural wood itself, stains are available to coat it and make it more visually striking to suit your taste or to complete the home’s siding material colors. You’ll want to wait a few months before staining to let the wood weather a bit.
Treated lumber comes in several grades that relate to its durability. Our consultant can explain these grades and help you choose the type that’s best for your climate and budget. Doing maintenance on a routine basis is a must for pressure-treated wood. Upkeep can help extend the lifespan of the deck itself. Using this material typically costs anywhere from $15 to $35 a square foot, depending on the grade of wood utilized.
Composite Decking
Composite deck material is one of the most popular choices for those on the market for a new deck. It’s economically friendly and far easier to maintain than wood decking. It’s come a long way over the years from resembling plastic more than wood. Due to new innovations and the materials used during its construction, it looks more like wood than ever before. These days, composite decking uses various combinations of wood chips, bamboo, wood chips, and other raw materials.
Composite decks only require minimal maintenance and need no sanding and refinishing. Generally, all the owners need to do to keep them looking great is to pressure wash the surface on occasion, and they can last between 25 and an astonishing 50 years. It’s a great value, with costs estimated between $45 and $65 per square foot.
Composite deck installations will never deteriorate due to the elements, thanks to the resilience of the material. They are highly evolved and offer the appearance and texture of natural wood grain. Furthermore, they come in an array of colors from the manufacturer.
Specialty Hardwoods
Exotic hardwoods like Ipe wood are one of the best decking materials for a number of reasons. True to their name, hardwoods are highly durable due to the wood itself and the thickness of the planks. They are resistant to rot, decay, and pest infestations. Their natural tannins function in the same way that the chemicals in pressure-treated lumber use.
Hardwoods have a unique look depending on the type of tree sourced. For example, Ipe features reddish-brown hues, while Cumaru, Tigerwood, and Mahogany also have a distinctive appearance. Their density allows to to look even more beautiful as they age. These materials can fade to a light gray unless they are oiled once or twice annually.
Some variables that can influence your material selection may include appearance, cost of the wood, installation, and the necessary maintenance. For many, this is the best-looking deck material, so it helps to be aware of all of your options when choosing hardwood.
However, for many homeowners, hardwood decking is the ideal first choice because of its resilience, unique look, and the need for minimal maintenance. Feel free to discuss options, costs, and possible material options when you have your consultation with one of our professionals and get your complimentary, no-pressure estimate.
Average Return on a Decking Investment
Decks increase usable space outdoors, making enjoying them a comfortable experience. Decking has an average ROI rate of around 71.5%. The resale value is dependent on your choice of material and the state of the real estate market should you opt to sell in the future.
Choosing a Top Decking Installation Company in Madison, Wisconsin
Decks are a major investment that requires work that shouldn’t simply be put in the hands of subpar contractors. That’s why one more of your decisions will be finding a qualified, experienced and reputable roofing company. That’s what you’ll get when you contact Arrow Exterior Designs for your project. Wood has a distinctive sound, feel, and odor and naturally absorbs the sun’s heat to protect your feet. Wood may also fit in best with the natural landscapes around the property.
We are insured and licensed with exceptional reviews and customer references to back our solid reputation as professional decking contractors. A member of our team will come to your property to provide you with a pressure-free consultation.
We’re interested in hearing your ideas, answering your questions, addressing your concerns, and coming up with a detailed estimate for the project. Contact us today to schedule your consultation. Keep in mind that we also offer roofing, siding, and gutter installations and replacements, which can be done simultaneously along with your deck.
