The snow is melting, the temperatures are rising, and you find yourself with the urge to relax outside, instead of the typical couch potato routine of winter time. But who wants to relax on the grass that’s still soggy from the remaining winter snow, or the puddle-filled driveway?

Build a solution to your problem with a new deck, the perfect addition to any home. But your next question is, of what should I build this new deck? This article will help you decide the perfect option for your exterior needs, with frequently asked questions about the ins-and-outs of decking materials.

What kind of wood is best suitable for a deck?

• Western Red Cedar
  There are many different species you can consider for building a deck. One of the best kinds is Western Red Cedar, a species that is naturally durable in any environment. It contains natural oils that prevent it from rotting and decaying, making it perfect for humid or wet climates.
  
  Western Red Cedar also contains another element, thujaplicins, an organic compound that gives off the classic cedar aroma. This appeals to the human senses, but is unattractive to insects, moths and other pests, keeping them at bay.
  
  Western Red Cedar has a long lifetime, with minimal maintenance. It only requires a staining about once a year. Also, it won’t bow or sag, like plastic has a tendency to do over time. A top reason most people consider Western Red Cedar is its price. It is less expensive than other types, like synthetic or composite.


• Ipe
  Another species you may want to consider is Ipe. Ipe is a hard, dense wood from tropical areas. While it is generally more expensive than Western Red Cedar, it has great qualities that make up for its high price. Since Ipe is so dense, it is very resistant to scratches and dents. It can last longer too. With the tight grain build of Ipe, it is waterproof, so mold isn’t a problem.

How do I maintain my wood deck?

A wood deck generally needs minimal maintenance. Depending on which kind of stain you apply, most decks only need a re-staining once a year. The darker the stain, the longer time required in between staining. A pressure-washer, cleaner, or brightener is recommended if the wood has grayed. All in all, the time between re-staining all depends on the type of stain, how dark the stain is, and how exposed your deck is to harmful elements or weather.

Are there any alternatives to wood decking?

Yes. Two main alternatives are composite decking, and PVC decking. A popular type of PVC decking is AZEK, a brand that is engineered with Procell technology. AZEK is the next generation of decking that solves most of the problems that come along with PVC decking.

Composite vs. PVC, what’s the difference?

Composite decking and PVC decking are very different. Composite decking is made from plastic and wood fibers blended together. PVC is 100% made from plastic. Both need very minimal maintenance, only an occasional sweeping or wash with the hose. PVC is more resistant to scratching than composite decking because of its dense surface. PVC is also lighter than other types of decking, making it easier to install. It can often weight 30% to 40% less than composite decking.

Are there any problems that come with composite decking?

Composite decking can be prone to mold growth. Ask us if this might be a problem in your region.

Other issues associated with composite decking is that it’s one of the most expensive types of decking, it’s very lightweight which can lead to warping or sagging, and it’s prone to scratches and can develop wear patterns over time.