Designing our outdoor paradise is one of the most exciting journeys we can embark on. Yet, with a myriad of decking materials at our fingertips, selecting the right one can feel like navigating a maze.

Do we want the classic charm of wood, the durability of composites, or the low-maintenance appeal of PVC? Each choice influences not just the aesthetics of our deck, but also its lifespan and upkeep.

But don’t fret! In this guide, we’ll break down the top deck material options, highlighting their benefits and drawbacks, so we can confidently create the outdoor haven we’ve always dreamed of.

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1. Composite Deck Boards - Low Maintenance and Durability

If we’re looking for a durable, long-lasting deck that doesn’t require much upkeep, composite deck boards might be the way to go. Made from a blend of recycled materials like wood fibers and plastics, composite decking offers an environmentally-friendly option that stands up well to the elements.

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Key Benefits:

• Low Maintenance: Unlike natural wood, composite decking doesn’t need to be sanded, stained, or sealed regularly. It’s also resistant to rot, mold, and insects, making it a great choice for wet climates.
• Durability: Composite deck boards are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, and they’re less likely to warp, splinter, or crack over time.
• Versatility: Available in a wide range of colors and finishes, composite decking can mimic the natural beauty of wood while giving us more flexibility in our design.

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Brands to Consider:

We can’t talk about composite decking without mentioning Trex decking. Known for its durability and eco-friendliness, Trex offers a variety of options to suit different styles and budgets.

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Why Choose Composite?

If we want a long-lasting deck that requires minimal maintenance, composite deck boards are an excellent choice. They might have a higher upfront cost, but we’ll save time and money in the long run on upkeep.

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2. Pressure Treated Lumber - Affordable and Accessible

Pressure treated lumber is one of the most common decking materials out there, and for good reason. It’s affordable, widely available, and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for homeowners on a budget.

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Key Benefits:

• Affordability: Pressure treated wood is one of the most cost-effective options for decking materials, making it great for larger projects or when working with a limited budget.
• Availability: Since it’s widely used, pressure treated lumber can be found at most home improvement stores, so we’ll never have to worry about sourcing more if needed.
• Natural Look: For those of us who appreciate the natural beauty of real wood, pressure treated lumber provides a classic, timeless look.
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Considerations:

While pressure treated wood is affordable, it does require regular maintenance. We’ll need to seal it every year or two to prevent moisture damage, and it’s more susceptible to splintering and warping over time compared to other materials.

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Is Pressure Treated Lumber Right for Us?

If we’re looking for an affordable, natural wood deck and don’t mind some regular upkeep, pressure treated lumber could be a great option.

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3. PVC Decking - All Weather Performance

If we live in an area with extreme weather conditions—whether it’s intense heat, heavy rain, or cold winters—PVC decking is a material worth considering. Made from 100% synthetic plastic, PVC decking is highly resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew, making it perfect for climates with a lot of rainfall.
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Key Benefits:

• Weather Resistant: PVC decking is designed to handle all kinds of weather without cracking, warping, or rotting.
• Low Maintenance: Like composite decking, PVC requires very little maintenance. We won’t need to stain or seal it, and it’s resistant to common deck issues like mold and mildew.
• Lightweight: PVC boards are lightweight and easy to install, making them a convenient option for DIY projects or quick professional installations.
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Considerations:

PVC decking tends to be more expensive than other materials, but its durability and low-maintenance qualities can make it worth the investment.

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Is PVC Decking Right for Us?

If we live in Washington, where the weather can be rough, PVC decking is a great option. It's long-lasting and easy to take care of, making it perfect for our outdoor spaces. PVC decking resists moisture and can handle changing temperatures, so our deck will stay looking good and work well for many years.

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4. Natural Wood Decking - Classic Beauty

For those of us who want that traditional, rustic feel, nothing beats the natural beauty of real wood. There’s something special about walking barefoot on a wood deck that synthetic materials just can’t replicate.
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Popular Types of Wood Decking:

• Cedar: Known for its rich color and natural resistance to insects, cedar is a popular choice for wood decks. However, it’s a softwood, meaning it can scratch or dent more easily.
• Redwood: A premium wood choice, redwood offers stunning color and durability. However, it’s more expensive and can be hard to find in some areas.
• Ipe: A tropical hardwood, Ipe is incredibly dense and durable. It’s naturally resistant to insects and rot, but it comes at a premium price and can be difficult to work with.
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Considerations:

While wood decks are beautiful, they require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. We’ll need to seal and stain our deck every few years to protect it from moisture, UV damage, and insects.

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Is Natural Wood Right for Us?

If we love the classic look of wood and don’t mind the maintenance, a natural wood deck can provide timeless beauty and charm to our outdoor living space.

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5. Trex Decking - A Leader in Composite Materials

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When we’re looking at deck material options, Trex decking is often at the top of the list. Trex is one of the most well-known brands of composite decking, offering eco-friendly, durable products that mimic the look of natural wood.

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Key Benefits:

• Sustainability: Trex decking is made from 95% recycled materials, including wood fibers and plastics. This makes it an environmentally friendly choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
• Long-Lasting: Trex boards are designed to last for decades with minimal maintenance, making them a great investment.
• Wide Variety: Trex offers a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes to suit our design preferences.
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Why Choose Trex?

If we’re looking for a high-quality, sustainable decking material that requires little maintenance, Trex is a great option to consider.

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6. Deck Size - How to Calculate the Right Amount of Materials

One of the most important steps in planning our deck is figuring out how many square feet of decking materials we’ll need. The size of our deck will affect how much we spend on materials and labor, so it’s important to get it right from the start.

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Tips for Calculating Deck Size:

• Measure Twice, Cut Once: Measure the length and width of our deck area to determine the total square footage. It's essential to double-check our measurements to avoid ordering too much or too little material. If we're unsure, we can always ask a deck professional about the right sizes to consider for our specific project.
• Plan for Waste: When ordering materials, it’s a good idea to add an extra 10-15% for waste, especially if we’re working with natural wood that may have knots or imperfections.

By accurately calculating the size of our deck and the amount of materials needed, we can avoid costly mistakes and stay within our budget.

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7. Choosing the Right Deck Railing

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No deck is complete without a deck railing that ties the design together and provides safety. The type of railing we choose will depend on our deck’s overall style and the materials we’re using.

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Popular Deck Railing Options:

• Wood Railing: A classic choice for natural wood decks, wood railings can be stained or painted to match the deck’s finish.
• Metal Railing: Durable and low-maintenance, metal railings are a great option for modern designs or decks in harsh climates.
• Glass Railing: If we want unobstructed views from our deck, glass railings provide a sleek, modern look without compromising safety.
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What’s the Best Deck Railing for Us?

The right railing will complement the overall look of our deck while providing the safety and durability we need.

Designing the perfect deck starts with choosing the right materials. By considering factors like maintenance, durability, and budget, we can create a deck that not only enhances our outdoor living space but also lasts for years to come.

If you’re unsure where to start or need help bringing your deck design to life, don’t hesitate to reach out to Legacy Decking. Our team of experienced professionals can help you choose the best materials for your project and guide you through the process from start to finish. Let’s build the deck of your dreams together!