Your Guide To Decking Materials

The vast majority of homeowners will opt for wood when they begin to design their deck. However, there are all sorts of materials on the market that offer an incredible aesthetic and low maintenance that a discerning consumer should look into.

There are composites, which are a blend of plastics and wood that offer a great way to construct a strong deck. Some of these composites are even made from recycled plastics, making them even more attractive for those who are looking to do something great for the environment.

Complementing The Design Of Your Home

There can be a lot that will go into the way that your deck’s design can impact the overall look of your property. Because of this, it is important that you take care to look for all of the right design elements to make your deck shine while also fitting right in with the current space. Most of the time, the actual width of the decking material, the finish, the colour and even the railings or embellishments can make or break the look of your deck.

Wood Decking

This is an authentic, beautifully natural option that comes in a variety of grains. Popular options include pressure treated pine, redwood, cedar and tropical hardwoods. Hardwood and exotic options are usually the most expensive and any wood decking has the ability to crack, stain or change color if it is not properly maintained. 

Plastic Decking

This is the best form of decking if you are looking to resist the elements while eliminating stains. Your choices will include polyethylene and PVC, both of which are fairly lightweight. It is best to note that some versions can look a bit cheap. Some plastic decking can be rather slippery and it has been known to sag more than wood. 

Aluminum Decking

This is a type of decking the is rigid, tough and often slip resistant. Depending on the kind that you choose, a baked on finish or anodized finish can last a long time in the right weather conditions. The sections are also able to sometimes interlock so that the chance that rain will get through is slim to none. The downside to this material is that it is generally quite expensive.

Composite Decking

This is a very popular option when you want to have the look of wood, yet you get the tough combination of both wood fiber and plastic. You can sometimes stain composite decking so that you can get the look you are longing for and a lot of it will come with sides that are encased in plastic to help prevent the growth of mildew.

Some options might be less resistant to stains, slips and mildew and this is a material that can be a bit heavier and more expensive than hard wood deck options. The price range can vary dramatically depending on your choice of material. 

Popular composite decking materials include Trex, Timbertech and Blooma. 

Deck materials can vary significantly in cost and quality. It is going to be a matter of taking into account your budget as well as the overall look and feel that you are going for around the exterior of your home. No matter what, you will see that taking the time to look for the right decking material by using this guide, you will end up with the perfect decking installation in Bristol. Reach out to our team to discuss your options.