Summer is coming to an end and the more pleasant days of Autumn are almost upon us. What better time to get that deck built (or rebuilt) onto your home?

There are plenty more days left to enjoy barbecues and parties outdoors. Building or extending your deck can expand the space for your social gatherings. And here’s another great reason to have a wooden deck installed: According to Realtor.com, adding a wooden deck onto your home is Number 3 on the top 20 lists of projects that are highest in ROI (more than 80% of your costs are recouped). So if you’re thinking about putting your home on the market, a wood deck is one home improvement project you may want to consider.

The Deck Appeal

A deck is a platform with decking boards or tiles, usually made of either wood or a composite material. A deck is ideal for sloped yards where you want a flat area. It’s also good for homes that sit high above the ground or atop a basement, because they can be built as high as you need. If your home sits higher than about 14 inches off the ground, a platform deck is probably for you.

A deck is basically another room added to your home. Walk out the door leading to your deck, and it’s another living space. During nice weather, you’ll be glad you have it. And if you install a hot tub on the deck, you’ll even enjoy it during the colder winter days.

Backyard decks have replaced patios and front porches as the social centers of suburbia. Decks are elevated to catch breezes and to facilitate conversations with neighbors on their decks. Large enough for a table and grill, most decks are more versatile than front porches and provide privacy from street traffic.

Types of Deck Materials

There are basically two types of materials that can be used to construct your home deck: natural wood and man-made materials. Those that require less ongoing maintenance tend to be more expensive. Less expensive materials can still make great decks, but they need to be cleaned and treated regularly for long-lasting use.

Natural Wood

Wood is a traditional, popular, and high-maintenance choice for decking. The material looks warm, feels cool under foot, and smells great. The two options in this category are cedar and pressure treated woods. Cedar is deep red and looks the most natural. Pressure treated woods come in a wide range of grades; the higher the grade, the more durable, since they are often kiln dried after treatment. Both cedar and pressure treated woods are rot-resistant.

Wooden decks are more economical to build because the materials are readily available, so they are less expensive. Wood stays cool in summer, is easy on the feet, and has a rustic look and feel, which goes well with many house styles.

Wood does require regular maintenance or it will rot and develop mold and mildew. Annual cleaning, as well as restaining and re-sealing every 3-4 years is also necessary, or the deck can stain, crack, rot, and warp.

Man-Made Deck Materials

There are a few materials that can be used for deck construction that are man-made.

Composite

Composite materials are constructed using recycled plastic and wood fiber products. These materials have the look of natural wood, but doesn’t require the constant maintenance. It’s a “greener” choice over wood, since more trees aren’t cut down. It’s available in many designs, colors, and textures. Composite decking is also easier to clean (just use soap and water), and will not rot.

Composite materials are usually double the cost of natural wood. Decks made of these materials can sag and, if located in shade, can develop mold and mildew.

Plastic PVC

This material is resistant to stains and fading and is not slippery when wet. Plastic materials are low maintenance, not requiring sanding, staining, or painting.

Some brands of plastic deck materials may require a more supportive structure than wood or they will sag. The material is hotter in the summer and does not resemble the look of wood at all. The cost can be more or less than natural wood, depending on brand and style.

Aluminum

Decks made from anodized aluminum materials are more durable. They are great in areas near bodies of water, as they are extremely resistant to rot, mold and mildew. Their surface is cool in the heat and non-slippery.

Virtually maintenance free, they simply require sweeping and occasional rinsing with a garden hose. They offer a more contemporary look, with a wide choice of colors, which are very resistant to fading.

Aluminum is more expensive than wood. And if you want a more traditional-looking deck, it’s not your best choice.

Finnteriors Construction Services Can Build You a Great Deck

No matter what type of deck you prefer, Finnteriors can construct it for you. Don’t wait to get that additional living space to enjoy! Contact us today to get a free estimate for your new deck!