One of the most enviable things about living in Southern California is the year-round, sunny climate that encourages everyone to spend more time outdoors. Creating a backyard deck further extends your living space by giving you another area to relax and entertain guests, regardless of the season.
Though it may sound like a big undertaking, building a backyard deck is easier to install than you might think, especially when you choose quality outdoor building materials. Here are several of our favorite options, which can withstand extended use and help to create the perfect setup to enjoy year after year.
Trex Decking
Trex decking offers a scratch-resistant, fade-resistant, and overall long-lasting, durable composite material. It’s a low-maintenance solution that can tolerate the enduring sunshine of Southern California without having to sand, stain, or paint your deck to maintain its premium quality. Meanwhile, due to its affordability and multiple price points, it’s also one of the first choices for those wanting to build a budget-friendly deck.
Another benefit of Trex decking is the various design options, which follow a “good, better, and best” range of models. TrexTranscend, TrexSelect, and TrexEnhance are available in multiple, nature-inspired colors, all creating an aesthetically pleasing, vibrant look. Plus, the enhanced basic boards are user-friendly for anyone install, whether you’re a professional contractor or a home DIYer.
Azek Decking
Azek decking has similar appeal to Trex decking if you prefer to stick with a composite material. It’s also durable, low-maintenance, and comes in different widths to create varying patterns depending on the aesthetic you want to achieve. Azek decking is also lighter in weight than other outdoor building materials and just as easy to install.
Additionally, the surface stays much cooler because it’s made of PVC material versus a standard composite. This helps to protect bare feet (and paws!) from surfaces that can quickly heat up during the summer months. Either way, both composite decking materials include extended warranties to instill confidence about the creation of your new outdoor space.
Modern Hardwood or Classic Softwoods
Alternatively, wood decking offers a beautiful and sustainable decking option and delivers a warm, inviting look. The sleek appeal of modern hardwood like Ipe, Mangaris, and Garapa is on par with current home design trends, which is evolving past the rustic aesthetic that was popular for so long.
The natural beauty of Western Red Cedar lumber offers a welcoming appeal, perfect for home entertaining and creating your own outdoor oasis. However, if classic wood decking is your preferred style, redwood decking is an optimal solution. It comes in several grades with more or less knots, depending on your preference, to create a more natural appearance and is slightly less expensive than hardwood. However, there’s versatility among all options to customize widths, patterns, stain color, and designs to fit exactly what you envision for your backyard.
Bamboo
Known for its strength and beauty, bamboo decking is a gorgeous modern and sustainable deck option. These 6-foot deck boards have a unique interlocking design that allow the joints to span between the joists.
Designing Your Dream Deck
Expanding your home through reimagining outdoor living can be easily achieved with the addition of a beautiful, new deck. Composite decking material includes plug-and-play installation with hidden clips or composite deck screws, while redwood decking can be installed using deck screws or CAMO hidden screws. These user-friendly options simplify top deck installation for homeowners without compromising quality or design.
Our lumber specialists are ready to help you navigate the different decking materials for your next project. We can also help you source fire-rated, WUI-approved materials, when necessary. Remember, it is the installer’s responsibility to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and to check with your local building department for code and permit requirements.
When the typical forecast is 72 and sunny, having a backyard retreat makes life all the more enjoyable. Visit your nearest J&W Lumber location today and let us help you make your dream deck come to life.