When it comes to building your own deck, the option of decking material is always an important subject. The material from which you’ll be making the deck can make or break the entire thing.
While not in the literal sense, knowing which the best will certainly be beneficial for you. So, that’s why we’ve got a list of 4 best composite decking materials and options to try in 2024.
Don’t go anywhere as we’ll give you a detailed guide on which is best for your needs.
Best Decking Material
Every residential house uses some decking materials. But not only that, the popularity of such materials has grown exponentially over the years and is even applied to commercial buildings.
The popularity stems solely from the fact that these are very durable, good looking, and quite easy to maintain. But when it comes to the deck itself, well there are tons of options to choose from. Let’s take a look at some of them.
Once you picked your decking material out its time to start decorating your outdoor area. Start with Apex Metal Signs to get a nice metal monogram for your deck.
IPE Hardwood
IPE hardwood is a very durable option and that also makes it one of the most expensive ones. This wood originates from Brazil, so you can imagine the costs for shipping to add to the overall value of the option.
Fortunately, you’re also getting quite a lot from it. It is estimated that this type of composing decking material can last up to 75 years! But this is only possible if you take good care of it and install it properly.
Another great thing about IPE hardwood is the fact that it is literary scratch-resistant and it looks amazing. The dark color of this material is visually appealing and very pleasant to the eye.
Redwood
Redwood is one of the cheapest options and one of the most commonly used decking material out there. The great thing about redwood is that it looks quite expensive as the dark and reddish color is enough for anyone to use as a compose decking material.
However, redwood does have its flaws. Namely, this material won’t last you the same as IPE hardwood and is quite prone to scratching. Fading is also a problem as long sun exposure will make it lose its unique dark and reddish color.
Cedar
Cedar is also quite expensive but not as expensive as IPE hardwood. And cedar isn’t that good looking as it doesn’t have a darker color but lighter.
If a lighter color was your thing, then cedar is an awesome option as it will last you for 20 years. There are also color options when it comes to choosing this material, but they are prone to going grey from prolonged sun exposure.
You will also pay more for this type of cedar, so if you have no issue painting over then red cedar is an even better option.
Bamboo
Although bamboo looks awesome and is very cheap, it shouldn’t be a serious option as the lifespan of the material is anywhere between 3 and 5 years.
Bamboo isn’t wood, to say the least. Bamboo decking is a series of compressed stalks made to resemble wood. This is why bamboo shouldn’t be on your list if you’re serious about your deck.
Durability is also very questionable with this material so you shouldn’t use it more people will be using the deck. This is a relatively new material and advancements are taking place to make it more durable, last longer, and make it into an overall better product.
With all that said, bamboo is very easy to replicate and very cheap to maintain.
There are lots of alternatives to wood when it comes to choosing a decking material for your deck. From recycled wood to recycled plastic, these materials are great and cost very little to install and maintain.
If you’re interested in what such type of material looks like and its advantages, then we suggest you go over to Dino Decking for more information.
Mahogany
When it comes to mahogany, there are very few options that perform better. If installed properly and maintained annually, then mahogany will last you a very long time.
This is why it’s recommended that you find a decking supplier that has it and knows how to install it.
This type of wood is very hard to find, similar to IPE hardwood and looks absolutely gorgeous. Mahogany is the number one option for families that aren’t afraid to spend more on their deck and aren’t afraid to maintain.
Composite Decking Options
We mentioned earlier that there are quite a few alternative options to wood that perform great and are quite affordable. If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly option as your decking material, then composite these composite materials are great for it.
1. Plastic
Plastic is very inexpensive and can last anywhere between 12 and 25 years. It is a very eco-friendly option and one that will greatly help the environment. However, you shouldn’t settle for it if you live in very hot places.
2. PVC
PVC is very smooth and splinter-free. It is also quite lightweight, costs the same as plastic, and will generally last around 20 years. But one area where PVC outperforms plastic is the fact that it can withstand the harshest environments.
3. Aluminum
Aluminum is quite moderately priced, offers quite a modernistic look, and will last nearly five decades. But where aluminum fails is the fact that it can corrode over time. This isn’t an issue if you live in places where access to the sea is limited.
Since saltwater can damage the thing, it isn’t recommended for coastal homes and decks. Aluminum requires little to nothing in terms of maintenance and mildew will never be a problem. There are some noise issues so take that into account.
4. Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a great composite decking material as it is quite literary weather-resistant. Storms, hail and snow doesn’t hurt it one bit. This is why fiberglass is also a roofing option, pool option, and even asphalt!
Fiberglass isn’t as expensive as some other options and the material is quite moderately priced.