7 Types of Decking

How to Choose Between Cedar, Pressure Treated Wood & Composite This increases the carbon footprint and doesn’t necessarily translate to a higher-quality deck board. Below we compare the costs, durability and appearances of wood and composite decking. If neither option sounds right for you, there’s also synthetic PVC decking, which we discuss later in the guide. Pressure-treated wood is an essential material for outdoor construction projects, offering unparalleled durability and resistance to decay. Composite metal floor decks are strong and lightweight and can have deep or shallow profiles depending on the end requirement. The three common types of composite floor decks are 1.5-inch, 2-inch, and 3-inch composite decks.

Best Composite Decking Materials & Options

Proper drainage solutions will also need to be implemented to prevent water damage and erosion. First, you’ll want to assess the slope of your yard and determine if any retaining walls or foundation options are necessary for stability. Not only do they provide an attractive visual addition to your home, but they also offer environmental benefits such as rainwater retention and insulation. Regularly inspecting for damage is a crucial aspect of maintaining any decking surface. Second, seal any cracks in the wood with caulk or putty to prevent water from seeping in and causing further damage.

The increased strength means it will withstand greater load over a long period.Once the metal floor deck is laid down, concrete is poured to create a strong foundation.Aluminum is available in various colors and styles to match your preferences.It offers the advantage of being lightweight and easy to handle, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts.

What is the most cost effective decking material?

If any concerns arise during an inspection or maintenance check, it’s recommended to seek professional consultation from a licensed contractor who can assess the situation further. Sealant application is another important step because it helps protect against moisture penetration by forming a barrier on the surface of your deck. Alternatively, you may want to consider applying a sealant or stain that contains waterproofing agents. Using improperly treated lumber is bad for the wood, the environment, and your wallet. Compared to traditional concrete slabs, slabs made with steel decking are lighter and have high structural strength. This can be beneficial for multi-story buildings as they significantly reduce the construction’s weight. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about metal decking, including where it’s used and the various types available. Maintaining your deck through regular cleaning, sealing, and inspections is key to its longevity and continued safety. Unlike wood, plastic decking requires little maintenance and can keep a uniform look for many years. Plastic composite decking combines wood fibers with a durable plastic film. Typically accessed by a path or walkway, detached decks are sometimes called “floating decks.” Often located near a pool or gazebo, these decks are not attached to the house. It is the easiest type of deck to build and is often cheaper than attached decks. The downside of this type of deck https://clearviewbuildersiinc.wistia.com/medias/yf0qr43bxf is that it requires periodic maintenance and is more prone to moisture damage than elevated decks. PVC is a versatile material used for pipes, wiring, and even decks.