A deck is a multifunctional addition to your residence. It provides a place to host small gatherings, increases the square footage of your living space and even boost the curb appeal and resale value of your home. Today, we take a closer look at the pros and cons of popular decking materials.
Pros: Pressure-treated wood is by far the most sought-after material for outdoor decks. Since the material has been chemically treated to resist mold, rot and insects, homeowners prefer it over most materials available on the market – and its relatively inexpensive cost, around $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot, which does not hurt either.
Cons: Maintenance is the number one concern when it comes to pressure-treated wood. The decking material has a tendency to crack or warp due to weathering.
Pros: Concrete is a versatile material and, when well-designed, can look chic and modern. It is also extremely easy to clean and maintain throughout the years.
Cons: Many home improvement specialists think that concrete as a decking option has less character than other materials. It also tends to get balmy under the sunlight.
Pros: Tropical hardwoods represent the luxurious side of life. They are also grainy, durable, hard and naturally resistant to common decking problems like rotting and insect infestation.
Cons: Hardwoods usually come with a high price tag, and since they are pretty dense, it is difficult to drill holes into them.
Pros: Made from wood fibers and recycled plastics, composites are among the fastest-growing decking materials on the market. They do not warp, splinter, rot or get affected by insects.
Cons: Since composites are partially wood, they may show signs of decay over time. Also, they can be on the expensive side, around $7 to $10 per square foot.
In need of quality and professional home improvement solutions? Look no further than Nuss Construction Company. From deck building to bathroom remodeling, there is no job too small for our team. Give us a call at (856) 988-9982, or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment. We work with homeowners in Cherry Hill and Moorestown, NJ, and other nearby communities.