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A Guide to Choosing the Right Decking Material | S&S Design Build
Sergio Mota • May 17, 2024
Choosing the right decking material is a crucial decision for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor living space. With so many options available it can get overwhelming to decide what material is the best fit for your needs, preferences & budget. This guide will help you with all the options by comparing the most popular materials: wood, composite, & PVC. By understanding the advantages & disadvantages of each you can make an informed decision.
Before we go over the advantages and disadvantages of the decking materials for your home, you must keep in mind that when deciding between wood, composite, & PVC decking ask yourself the following questions:
- How much are you willing to invest upfront versus long-term maintenance cost?
- Which material do you find the most visually appealing?
- How much time & effort are you willing to dedicate to deck maintenance?
- Are you looking for a material that can withstand harsh weather conditions?
- Is the environmental impact of your decking material a significant concern for you?
First, we have wood decking which is a timeless & traditional natural beauty. The most common types of wood used for decking include pressure-treated lumber, cedar, & redwood.
Advantages:
- Aesthetics - each board on wood has unique grain patterns, offering a traditional & warm aesthetic.
- Cost-Effective - pressure-treated wood is one of the most affordable decking materials on the market.
- Cooler Surface - wood doesn’t retain much heat, making it more comfortable to walk on barefoot in sunny weather.
Disadvantages:
- Maintenance - wood requires annual power washing, staining, or sealing to maintain appearance & longevity.
- Durability Concerns - wood is susceptible to rot, insect damage, & weathering over time, especially if not properly maintained.
Next, we have composite decking, which is made from a blend of wood fibers & plastic. This combination creates a material that mimics the appearance of wood but is significantly improved in durability & minimal maintenance.
Advantages:
- Low Maintenance - composite decking requires minimal maintenance. An occasional soap & water cleaning is usually required.
- Durability - it's resistant to rot, decay, & insect infestations, making it ideal for a long-term investment.
- Variety of Choices - composite decking comes in a variety of colors, textures, & finishes, allowing for a variety of customization options.
Disadvantages:
- Heat Retention - composite decking can get quite hot in direct sunlight.
- Cost - composite decking is more expensive than most types of wood decking, though its low maintenance costs can offset the initial cost over time.
Lastly, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking, it’s made entirely of synthetic materials offering a completely different approach to outdoor decking. It provides some of the highest durability & lowest maintenance requirements of any decking option.
Advantages:
- Maintenance - PVC decking is virtually maintenance free, requiring only occasional cleaning.
- Durability - it’s resistant to rot, insects, & weathering, & won’t splinter, crack, or warp.
- Aesthetics - PVC decking is available in a range of colors & styles & can even resemble natural wood.
Disadvantages:
- Cost - PVC decking is the more expensive of the three main options, which can be a significant factor for many homeowners.
- Environmental Concerns - PVC decking is less eco-friendly compared to other decking materials.
Whether you prefer the natural look and feel of wood, the durability and low maintenance of composite, or the unparalleled longevity of PVC, there's a decking material that will meet your needs & preferences. By considering the advantages & disadvantages of each option, you can make an informed decision that will enhance the beauty & functionality of your outdoor living space for years to come.
Remember, no matter which decking material you choose, proper installation & care are key to ensuring your deck remains a beautiful & safe place for family & friends to gather.
Screen enclosures have come a long way from their simple beginnings, evolving into versatile and highly customizable structures designed to enhance outdoor living. Originally created to provide shade and protection from bugs, modern screen enclosures are now an integral part of many homes, offering functionality, style, and comfort. Whether it’s a patio, pool area, or backyard space, these enclosures create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living, allowing homeowners to enjoy fresh air and natural sunlight without sacrificing cleanliness or comfort. At S&S Design Build, we specialize in designing and installing high-quality, custom screen enclosures tailored to your needs. Our team understands that no two homes are alike, which is why we work closely with you to create an enclosure that fits your lifestyle and enhances your property. One of the standout benefits of having a screen enclosure is its ability to keep annoying bugs and debris out – allowing you to relax outdoors comfortably, whether you're enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning or hosting a lively evening gathering. Benefits extend beyond just bug protection. Screen enclosures also add value to your home by creating a usable living space that blends the best of outdoor and indoor experiences. And for families with pets, we can even customize features like a doggy door, so your furry friends can have the freedom to move in and out while you maintain control over your space. These small, thoughtful additions reflect the care and attention to detail we bring to every project. When you choose S&S Design Build, you're not just getting a screen enclosure; you're investing in a space that adapts to your life while improving the aesthetics and functionality of your home. Reach out to us today and see how we can bring your vision to life, combining craftsmanship, practicality, and innovation into a perfect addition to your outdoor space.
Outdoor living is becoming an increasingly popular trend, with homeowners looking for ways to extend their living spaces beyond the walls of their homes. One of the best ways to do this is by adding a patio cover to your property. At S&S Design Build, we specialize in designing and building custom patio covers that enhance the look and functionality of your outdoor living spaces. Let's explore the many benefits of having a patio cover installed and how S&S Design Build can help you create the outdoor living space of your dreams. One of the most obvious benefits of a patio cover is that it provides protection from the sun, rain, and other elements. This means that you can enjoy your outdoor living space even on days when the weather isn't ideal. A patio cover also allows you to entertain guests or simply relax outside. Additionally, it can also help to protect your outdoor furniture and fixtures from sun damage, prolonging their lifespan. Another benefit of a patio cover is that it can increase the curb appeal of your home. A well-designed and constructed patio cover adds aesthetic value to your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future. A patio cover can also be an excellent way to create a cohesive look for your outdoor living space, tying together different elements of your landscaping and architecture. In addition to patio covers, we also specialize in building motorized screen enclosures, screened enclosures, and decks. All of these options can enhance your outdoor living space and provide additional benefits such as privacy, protection from bugs, and increasing living space. If you're interested in adding a patio cover to your home, or if you're looking for other ways to enhance your outdoor living space, contact S&S Design Build. We'll work with you to design and build the perfect outdoor living space for your home, one that you'll be able to enjoy for years to come.
