Features such as built-in planters and benches, stairs, railings, and custom lighting will boost that cost.
Ready to commit to your vision but unsure how to choose among the many types of decking materials?
It’s the most common and least expensive punch in of decking.
Credit: Jason Donnelly
Knot-free pressure-treated pine decking, considered a premium product, will cost you a tad more per square foot.
“It typically comes in 1-inch planks,” he says.
“But I hand-select 2x6 pieces that are 1.5-inch thick.
Credit: David Tsay
It looks and feels more substantial and lasts longer, and the planks are a knot-free grade.”
If you go withpressure-treated lumber, be prepared to seal or stain the wood after your build is complete.
(A sealant adds only protection, not color, while a stain offers both.)
Stain applied to wood that hasn’t completely cured can result in a splotchy finish.
(But don’t worry; the stain is protective against water absorption either way.)
The downside to pressure-treated wood, compared to other decking options?
It requires regular maintenance to max out its lifespan of 20 to 25 years.
Plan to apply a fresh coat of stain every two to three years and perform regular cleanings.
One consideration: It might be difficult to locate sustainably-sourced ipe.
It also comes in a variety of colors and styles.
However, some composite deck materials can be slippery, prone to mildew, and might require special fasteners.
For stronger boards, choose one that contains polypropylene.
Plus, it’s effectively maintenance-free aside from occasional cleanings.
Various price levels exist within brands of composites.
Expect to pay between $6 and $17 per square foot.
Composite decking can’t be stained, but it can be painted if you desire a color refresh.
Synthetic Lumber
Looking for a deck that will last a lifetime with no staining and sealing?
Synthetic lumber is your low-maintenance answer.
Special tools are required for assembly, so be sure that you or your contractor is knowledgeable.
Aluminum Decking
For a seriously low-maintenance deck, look to aluminum.
Cost is about$8.98 to $12.98 per square foot, uninstalled.
For a greener option, try one of these three sustainable deck-building materials.
Reclaimed Wood: Secondhand wood decking gains new life when reused and tends to have beautiful grain.
Recycled Composite:This alternative decking material prevents waste from going to the landfill.
Ensure it is more than 50 percent recycled before purchasing.
Here’s a start.
Decking Finishes
To prevent breakdown,seal a wood deckas soon as it’s built.
Wood naturally weathers to brown and then gray.
If you want to preserve its look, ongoing maintenance is required.
But with so many optionswater-resistant, mildewcide, UV protectionhow do you choose one?
Start with the basics.
Clear: Use for cedar, redwood, or pine.
Provides protection without color.
Toner: Use to create a cedar or redwood look and highlight wood grain.
Mild color with more protection than clear.
Semitransparent: Slightly opaque.
Provides some wood-grain highlighting.
Repeat every 2-3 years.
Solid Color: Full-on paint that hides wood grain.
Provides the highest level of protection by guarding against UV light.
Repeat every 3-5 years.
Deck Tiles: Interlocking rubber-backed tiles topped with wood or composite material.
Use them to refresh a dated, unattractive deck.
Tiles must be removed in cold weather.
Decking Details
Railings and Balusters
Add personality to your deck with an ornamental railing.
Custom options include woven-branch rails and ornate post caps for composite decking.
Synthetic rail systems can be trimmed to fit your deck and need virtually no maintenance.
Low-maintenance balusters are also available from most composite companies.
Deck lighting is worthwhile and can be an inexpensive investment.
Low-voltage deck lighting abounds, whether you prefer cap lights on end posts or rope lighting under rail caps.
Look to a fun kit that allows you to build a box into your composite deck for cheap.
