Adding a deck to your home can give you a great place to relax and enjoy your time alone or with company. Not to mention that a deck can add value to your home, which is helpful if you’re considering selling your home in the future. With all of the benefits a good deck has to offer, you may want to consider adding one to your home.
When you decide to add a deck onto your home, you’ll have lots to choose from. However, to get yourself started, you should first choose the type of deck you want. Decks range in material from classic cedar wood to vinyl. Each option has its advantages, so it’s all up to what you want and need for your home.
Cedarwood
Cedarwood is one of the most naturally beautiful options for decks. It is inexpensive and easy to work with as well. If you want a cedar deck, you should choose darker heartwood, which has a lifespan of 15-20 years with annual refinishing.
Pressure-Treated Wood
Usually, pressure-treated wood is fir treated with anti-rot and anti-insect chemicals. This decking can last decades but requires treatment every other year and occasional staining to enhance and maintain a vibrant color.
Redwood
Redwood is strong, easy to work with, and light. It will last up to 20 years, the darker heartwood is naturally resistant to rot, and lighter colors can be easily be treated for protection.
Ipe
Ipe is a beautiful and durable hardwood option for decks. It can last 25 years or more, but can sometimes require extensive maintenance in addition to being very high cost.
Vinyl
Vinyl decks are practically maintenance-free and are extremely inexpensive, in addition to being durable.
Composite
Made from recycled polyethylene and wood fiber, this option is low maintenance and good looking. Composite decking normally lasts around 25 years or more.
