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5 Tips to Choose Decking Material

09/09/2021
5 Tips to Choose Decking Material

Extending a living space outdoors by building a backyard deck is a resourceful idea, particularly when it’s possible to experience deck-friendly weather year-round. However, not all outdoor building materials are the same. There are several factors to consider before selecting what will work best for your project and purpose.

#1: Consider Desired Level of Maintenance

When choosing outdoor building materials, think about how much maintenance you’re willing to do to preserve its quality. For those interested in low-maintenance, set-it-and-forget-it options, a composite is going to be the better selection. Composite decking is sustainable while maintaining an aesthetic appeal that typically requires only soap and water to clean.

Alternatively, the warmth of natural wood is always alluring. While it takes more to maintain, the feel and look of Western Red Cedar lumber, Redwood, or hardwood decking simply can’t be duplicated, and many find the added upkeep is well worth it. 

#2: Visualize Deck Placement

The environment and location of where the deck will be situated makes a difference in the type of outdoor building materials you’ll want and need. For example, when there’s limited backyard shade, consider fade-resistant materials that can withstand hours in the sun everyday. For those with an ocean or other type of scenic view, cable railing or glass railing options could be considered to maintain your fantastic view.

Knowing the placement of where the deck will be with regards to the climate as well as the layout of your backyard are equally important. These details will guide the type and amount of materials needed to complete the project as envisioned.

#3: Incorporate Sustainability and Stability

Taking a greener approach to building an outdoor space is a top priority for many. Fortunately, there are several outdoor building materials that are known for their environmental sustainability. One option is MOSO Bamboo X-treme, which is durable exterior decking with boards that are end-matched (tongue & groove ends), allowing for easier installation and increased stability. Bamboo is the fastest growing plant in the world making MOSO decking a great renewable, sustainable choice.

Redwood lumber is another optimal choice, as it’s considered one of California’s biggest renewable resources. This natural building selection provides a beautiful warmth to any home deck and meets the standards of many of California’s fire codes. It delivers an ideal mix of both aesthetic and environmental appeal.

#4: Match Materials to a Home’s Aesthetic

Regardless of type, color, and amount of materials needed, the main question always comes back to: how is it going to look? Fortunately, each style of wood or composite has its own unique design characteristics and colors to find the one that blends beautifully with a home’s aesthetic. Also, it’s smart to test the color and material in the sun, as well as the shade to see the difference in appearance and how hot or cool it gets.

Trex decking is one of the most popular choices. Its variety of neutral hues provides richness and a luxurious appeal to an outdoor space and Trex has recently introduced new lines that maintain affordability. With earth-toned colors available across multiple types of decking material, composite decking provides you the opportunity to compare the differences and find the perfect fit.

#5: Remember the Purpose of the Space

Ultimately, it’s essential to identify the purpose of the space and get the buy-in of the people who will use it most. The size and shape of a quiet, relaxing sanctuary will look much differently than what’s needed for a sprawling deck built for entertaining. Additionally, the idea of outdoor storage is another factor to keep in mind when outlining the layout of how the deck will look.

Taking time to address these details will help to ensure a rewarding end result. Let our specialists guide you through the deciding process and answer any questions you have.

We have multiple locations throughout Southern California and are here to meet your needs for your next deck project. Come visit us today.

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