Well, that depends on your budget, where you live, what you want your project to look like, and your personal style. Some popular decking materials are:
- Wood: Wood is a traditional decking material with a natural, classic look. Standard wood options include pressure-treated lumber, cedar, and redwood. Wood is relatively affordable and easy to work with. However, it requires regular maintenance, such as staining and sealing, to protect it from moisture, rot, and pests.
- Composite: Composite decking is a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastic and is a durable, low-maintenance alternative to wood. Composite decking is resistant to rot, warping, and splintering. It doesn't require staining or sealing but should still be cleaned periodically. It also comes in a variety of colors and styles.
- PVC: PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking mimics the look of natural wood and is made of synthetic materials, offering excellent resistance to moisture, stains, and insects. It doesn't require painting or sealing and is exceptionally resistant to the elements.
- Aluminum: Aluminum decking is lightweight, durable, and resistant to moisture, insects, and rot. It is often used in coastal areas due to its resistance to saltwater corrosion. In addition, aluminum decking offers a modern, sleek appearance and requires minimal maintenance.
- Tropical hardwood: Tropical hardwood decking, such as ipe or mahogany, is known for its exceptional durability and natural beauty. It resists insects, rot, and decay. Tropical hardwoods are dense and require special tools for installation. They are typically more expensive than other materials and require some regular maintenance to maintain their appearance.
We can help you explore the options that would work best for your decking project – please don’t hesitate to reach out!