When it comes to building or remodeling an outdoor deck, there are a few different deck materials to choose from. Each one has its own set of pros and cons for durability and aesthetics.
You may be wondering what deck material is the best fit for your home. At Howell Contracting, we have several materials available, but choosing the best decking material can be difficult. Let’s take a look at each deck material offered by Howell Contracting and assess their strengths and weaknesses.
Traditional Wood Decks
Traditional wood decks use several types of natural wood and are the most common option for outdoor decks. Traditional wood decks give off a natural feel and can fit right into any outdoor setting.
Some decks use softwood materials such as cedar and pine. They are lightweight and easy to work with. Other decks may use hardwood materials like mahogany and oak, which are colorful and extremely dense. These materials provide more durability but could be a more expensive option than softwood.
The downside of all timber decks is that they can be damaged by the outdoor elements over time. The original color of the wood can fade away from long-term exposure to the sun. It will rot and grow mold if exposed to too much moisture. All wood decks will need to be cleaned consistently and resealed periodically to look their best for many years. Overall, traditional wood decks can come with more maintenance and added costs than composite options, but they are also more affordable up front and may look nicer to some customers.
Composite Decks
Another material that has grown in popularity is composite decking. This material mainly consists of recycled wood and plastic. Composite decks have several advantages over traditional wood decks. Most importantly, they require much less maintenance than any natural wood. They are very durable and can’t be scratched as easily as timber. There will be no restoring or resealing necessary since this material is not prone to water damage.
This material is also more customizable than wood, with several colors and designs to choose from. The color will also never fade since it is unaffected by sunlight. Composite decks require only some periodic cleaning with soap and water. Overall, composite decks are becoming an increasingly popular substitute for traditional wood deck owners that are looking to remodel. While composite does not come with as many added costs as wood has, it could be more expensive to buy up front.
Build Your Dream Deck with the Best Decking Material for Your Needs
Whether you’re planning on remodeling or want to install a brand-new outdoor deck, Howell Contracting can help you get the job done in no time and with the best decking material. We are custom deck builders in Pittsburgh and look forward to hearing from you!
If you are interested in seeing our work, check out our portfolio of before and after remodels from our satisfied customers. Please contact us today at 1-724-816-8224, we will be happy to help with any future home project and provide a free estimate.
