Best Deck Materials Guide

Transcription

1 Best Deck Materials Guide

2 Table of Contents Introduction... 1 Pressure Treated Wood... 2 Cedar Wood... 4 Redwood... 6 TREX... 8

3 Summer in Tennessee means a lot of time outside. The weather is often sunny and many homeowners use this as an opportunity to gather friends and family at their home. Outdoor spaces set the scene for these social gatherings, but some houses do not have a deck or patio that makes it easy to entertain. Building a deck will not only expand your living space, but add value to your home. In addition to a complementary design, one of the biggest questions homeowners have is what type of material is best used for a deck. Because this addition will be subjected to all elements, you ll need to choose wisely. To make it easier, we ve broken down the top-rated outdoor decking materials and the benefits they provide. 1

4 Pressure Treated Wood All wood has air pockets within the material. These air pockets create opportunities for insects and water to penetrate causing unnecessary issues like rot. When creating an outdoor space like a deck, it s essential to choose an option that will not only look beautiful but withstand the elements. Pressure treated wood is a process that uses a depressurizing tank to swap the air pockets with a preservative. The result is a material that can avoid the infestation of harmful rot and insects that would make the wood corrode. BENEFITS OF USING PRESSURE TREATED WOOD Most kitchen remodeling projects start with a vision. These visions include granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. What most homeowners fail to consider is the best way to utilize the space. Depending on when your home was built, the layout may or may not work for what is needed today. Here are a few questions to take into consideration: Economical Using pressure treated wood is a one and done material. Natural lumber requires maintenance of regular sealants to help it repel water, insects, and promote a healthy finish. You won t need to rebuild or remodel with this element making it a financially attractive choice. Long-lasting The method used on pressure treated wood makes it incredibly durable. Homeowners won t need to worry about fungal problems or termites because the chemical compounds do so well conditioning the wood. Studies have shown that pressure treated timber is impenetrable even when submerged in water. Low Maintenance All materials used outdoors will become dirty, but pressure treated wood resists rot, insects, and other damaging properties. Topical treatments vary from product to product, but there is also the option of purchasing pressure treated wood that has a water-resistant coating. The coating will ensure minimal warping occurs over time. 2

5 Eco-friendly It s hard to imagine pressure treated wood as an environmentally durable deck product due to the use of chemicals. However, it s durability lends itself to the notion that once installed it won t need replacing. Therefore, you can cut down on the carbon footprint associated with the manufacturing of untreated lumber and save some trees in the process. INSTALLATION OF PRESSURE TREATED WOOD Fasteners and connectors are part and parcel of any wood related project. Fasteners refer to anything that holds the different pieces in place such as a nail or screw. Connectors are similar and apply to the pieces that align the different parts together. Constructing your outdoor deck requires some knowledge of how many and what kind of screws and connectors you re going to need. These elements are necessary to withstand not only mother nature but bear the weight of furniture, people, and animals as they enjoy the space. You ll need to choose wisely when you work with pressurized wood because the fasteners and connectors will also need to hold up against the chemical compounds used in the material. Otherwise, they will erode quickly and sabotage the integrity of the project. WHERE TO USE PRESSURE-TREATED WOOD Fortunately, when you are working on your outdoor space pressurized wood works well with any application. From decking to chairs, you can find a suitable project. Try to avoid bringing the wood indoors. If you have a partially covered deck, talk to an expert to establish whether or not there is enough ventilation for the wood to be used. 3

6 Cedar Wood Cedar is a coniferous wood, which means that they are softer than other building materials. The trees this coniferous wood is harvested from are usually evergreens or anything that foregoes the flat, broad leaves and instead reproduces through the use of cones. The lumber has a characteristic spicy scent and comes in a range of light, soft colors. Many homeowners who are looking for wood to use on their outdoor deck choose cedar because of its beauty, durability, and other fantastic benefits. BENEFITS OF CEDAR WOOD FOR YOUR OUTDOOR DECK Beauty Cedar is one of the most beautiful materials available for building an outdoor space. The tones are soft and subtle making it easy to complement any home. You can paint and stain cedar very easily enriching the color and improving its visual appeal. If you know you will sell your home down the line cedar will add some market value. Inexpensive There are a couple of ways in which choosing cedar will help with financial costs. First, the beauty of the wood means you won t need to pay for multiple treatments. Just add the necessary sealant to protect from mother nature, and you will have a long-lasting and beautiful product. Secondly, cedar is easier to work with which cuts down on the overall cost of labor for installation. Weather Resistant Outdoors spaces are guaranteed subjection to water. Cedar does not absorb much moisture without treatment. That s why it s a popular choice for individuals looking to build a beautiful outdoor space. Additionally, outdoor materials need to resist warping when temperatures begin to fluctuate. Cedar has the amazing ability to withstand harsh winters and hot summers without losing its attractiveness. 4

7 Durable When you invest in a new deck, you ll want to choose a material that will last without the need for expensive maintenance. Cedar has had a long-standing reputation for its durability. In fact, many artifacts made from cedar are still in good condition. With the right treatment application, you ll have a trouble-free experience with this material used to build your deck. Easy to Install You won t have to worry about tricky installation methods when using cedar. In fact, many builders prefer working with this material because the properties make it so soft. When there is less time dedicated to installation, you won t have to worry about the cost of labor becoming high. INSTALLING CEDAR WOOD While pliable, the wood itself does lend to some corrosive issues with fasteners. The natural preservatives in contact with an unprotected metal will turn areas of the wood black. Professional installation is required so the application of screws such as aluminum, brass, or stainless steel can be applied. Cedar doesn t have pitch or resin. Pitch and resin are liquids found inside trees. Pitch is a hybrid between solid and liquid and a resin is firmer in characteristics. Because you don t have these elements to fight with, you can use glue in the process of constructing your outdoor deck. Glue will help reinforce the stability of connected joints that will improve the support of weight and use. CHOOSING THE RIGHT CEDAR You can purchase cedar in a variety of colors and grades making it flexible for design, construction, and budget. You can find clear or knotted classes with either smooth surfaces or rough finishes. The material can transfer seamlessly from outdoor to indoor use. It s naturally antibacterial and antifungal meaning it can not only withstand subjection to the outdoors, but it can help protect the home from infestation as well. 5

8 RedWood Redwood is another softwood harvest from coniferous trees. Its quality and durability make it an excellent choice for any door use, primarily as a decking material. Unlike human-made products, redwood is an excellent conductor of heat meaning the installation of this wood in your outdoor space won t burn your bare feet. It would pair nicely with a home that also has a pool. The choice for redwood decks is a result of their beautiful coloring. If you are looking to build an area that produces a tranquil environment, has a rustic feel, and will withstand some of the harshest elements, redwood is a perfect choice. BENEFITS OF USING REDWOOD Won t Crack or Fade Different materials have unique reactions to being used outside. In Tennessee, we are fortunate enough to experience all for seasons, but our summers can become extreme. Redwood has a natural ability to resist UV penetration. This means the wood will not lose its shape, fade in color, or begin to warp from overexposure to the sun and heat. Additionally, the wood prevents slipping, which means if you have a pool near your deck, this will be a safe and viable option. Requires Little Maintenance The natural features of redwood lend to its durability. It has a unique wood grain that allows it to hold its shape regardless of outdoor temperature. You won t have to worry about cupping or warping. It also has natural antibacterial properties. It won t be subjected to decay, termites, or fire as quickly as other materials you have available to build your deck. Will Last for Years With a water-resistant sealant, you can worry less about keeping up with maintenance. The wood already has natural properties that make it easier for it to repeal agents like fungus, but once you include a finish your redwood deck could last you around 30 years. It can even hold up against multiple finishings if you decide that you want to either add another layer of protection or enhance its overall beauty. 6

9 Environmentally Grown The growth of redwood is under strict management. These trees populate a narrow strip of land in Northern California. This area is under more protection than any other commercial wood available. The Forest Stewardship Council regulates (FSC) the harvesting of the trees with regular audits. Operations need to prove that they have the proper licensing and training for production and conservation. As a result, using redwood has a slightly higher price tag, but the payoff is in durability, beauty, and being environmentally friendly. Versatility The characteristics of redwood allow the material to have many end uses. From decking to furniture, you can use this element to create a cohesive design that suits your home. Your outdoor deck can also incorporate a new pergola or patio cover that allows you to tie the entire look together seamlessly. The softwood will make it easy for installation in structural beams and trim as well. time dedicated to installation, you won t have to worry about the cost of labor becoming high. INSTALLATION OF REDWOOD Like many kinds of wood and manufactured materials, the need for fasteners and connectors is required for redwood as well. The benefit of using redwood means you don t need to purchase specialized fasteners. Because of the high quality, you will still want to invest in something that will add to the beauty of the wood and compliment its durability. Stainless steel is an excellent choice because it reinforces the support at the point of connection and is attractive. The strength of these screws means they won t corrode over time and won t bolster at the point of insertion. 7

10 TREX If you aren t familiar with TREX, you need to be. TREX is an affordable solution for outdoor materials. It s relatively new having been established back in The company uses innovative technology to produce materials suitable for outdoor use. Through the combination of plastic and reclaimed wood, you ll receive a high-performance decking product. It s the only kind like it on the market and can be used in a variety of applications. If you re considering a deck that will last, TREX may be for you. BENEFITS OF USING TREX Reliable Today, there are a few different manufacturers that produce outdoor materials. TREX deliver the same qualities time and time again. Unlike natural wood, you won t have to deal with any fading or stains. The boards are manufactured in batches, so each one looks that same as the next. If uniformity means something to you and will enhance the design for your outdoor space, you ll want to consider TREX. Diverse Line of Products For a cohesive design, TREX offers a complete line of products that tie in well together. In addition to their decking materials, the company also offers railing, outdoor lighting, framing and more. With so many options, you have the flexibility to mix and match to get the look you want and need that delivers the same low-maintenance, high-quality performance. No Staining Wood decking materials require regular staining and sealing as part of their general maintenance. If not the elements can become moldy, start to splinter, or rot. Composite materials like TREX don t require any form of staining and sealant. The products are made with these properties already infused in place. Cleaning is simple, and you can use ordinary household cleaner and brush to remove dirt. 8

11 Made Using Recycled Materials The TREX company works diligently to provide their consumers with environmentally friendly outdoor spaces. During the manufacturing stage, almost 95% of the finished product is made from recycled material. The recycled materials include sawdust, old wood, and plastic. The company is acutely aware of their carbon footprint and work hard to manufacture their entire range to be environmentally friendly. INSTALLATION OF TREX Because of the components that comprise TREX products, you will need to invest in their integrated installation system. You can use stainless steel screws, but the company offers hidden deck fasteners that give homeowners the opportunity to achieve a seamless look. The hidden installation process uses a fastening system that slots between the deck boards and fastens to the joists. This method offers precision and uniformed spacing for a uniquely flawless look. Choosing the right decking material can be challenging. You ll need to consider various elements and the final design before you want to start investing. Working with a trusted outdoor decking company can help bring your vision to life. Stratton Exteriors has been helping homeowners design and develop unique outdoor spaces. We can walk with you through the process of deck installation and help you decide on a material that is right for you. Visit StrattonExteriors.com to learn more.