If you’re thinking about building a deck to enhance the overall curb appeal and square footage of your home, one of the first things to consider is the material to implement with the venture. This particular choice can play a major role in the potential success you enjoy with your decking construction. Some of the aspects affected by your choice include aesthetics, longevity, and quality.
Two of the more popular materials recommended by Deck Repair and construction specialists include lumber and metal alloys. While timber has been used in the construction of decks for centuries, metal alloys have only gained popularity over the past decade or so. They both represent great options, however, depending on the quality of the materials involved.
Wooden Decking Materials
Lumber is arguably the most popular decking material available in the market because of its wide variety, quality, and longevity. According to a report published by Global Market Insights, wooden decks featured a market share valued at over $15 billion in 2020, a number that was expected to experience continued growth of 2.1% between 2021 and 2027. One of the reasons behind this growth rate is the ease of accessibility available with wooden decking solutions. Lumber is one of the easiest materials to acquire because of its worldwide presence and cost-effective pricing.
It should be noted, however, that not all options represent great alternatives. It’s crucial to carefully choose the kind of timber you integrate into your building project when seeking quality results. Opting for hardwoods over softwoods, for example, is recommended by a majority of Deck Repair experts because of their sturdier nature and resistance to the elements. The particular species involved can also play a major role in the quality you can enjoy with your construction. Redwood and cedar, for instance, are both classified as softwoods but can be good alternatives when looking to mitigate material costs. Some of the best hardwoods recommended by contractors include oak, ipe, and maple.
Metal Decking
Metal has grown in popularity as an effective decking material in recent years, and features one of the highest longevity levels available. However, like its wooden alternative, the kind of metal employed with the construction will determine the level of quality enjoyed. With this in mind, metal alloys are the best alternatives recommended by professionals because of their ability to resist the elements. Rain, in particular, serves as a particular threat as it can cause rust. This is particularly true when it comes to metal alloys that contain iron as this option is highly susceptible to corrosion.
Bronze and copper don’t have the same weakness when it comes to rusting but does not feature high aesthetic levels and so are generally avoided. Options such as copper are also weaker compared to other options and as such are not suitable for the construction of such fixtures as they are liable to experience heavy foot traffic, and support significant amounts of weight at any given time. Stainless steel and aluminum are generally the two best options available when it comes to metal decking options.
Whether you’re interested in implementing lumber or metal with your decking project, call us today! Dexksos, your top rated contractor!
