Selection of the materials is a vital step to build a fascinating backyard deck space into a perfect area for relaxation, entertainment and family get-together.
Therefore right material is very crucial for its aesthetic look, functionality and durability along with value for money. In this article I would like to discuss various ideal outdoor deck materials which are in use:
Wooden Deck Ideas:
In order to create a deck, wood is a best choice of materials amongst all options due to its versatility and natural look and warmth. Different types of woods are in practice which include:
Types of Wood with Merits and Demerits
a) Pressure- Treated Lumber:
This kind of wood is most popular and affordable option for DIY projects. The wood is treated to make it resistance against rot and insect. However, it has been observed that regular sealing and staining is required for its long term appearance and long life.
b) Cedar and Redwood:
Cedar and redwood is an expensive option due to its appearance and eye catching colors and aromatic nature. The wood has other promising features which includes naturally resistant, require less maintenance and long life due to these features this is an expansive option than pressure-treated lumber. The life span can be further enhanced by sealing giving protection against moisture and UV damage.
c) Tropical Hardwoods:
For a long life with minimum level of maintenance, durability and resistance to termite and other insect and stunning aesthetics, tropical hardwood is best choice of materials for backyard deck construction i.e., Ipe, Teak and Mahogany.
The promising features of this kind of wood makes it a special and an expensive option for deck construction. To be honest tropical hardwoods is a best choice for constructing backyard deck due to it aesthetics and personally also my choice of materials as well.
Composite Materials:
Composite materials are another choice of material to make backyard decks due to low cost and less maintenance. Composite materials also possess resistance to fading, staining and scratching. Composites materials also available in wide colors and finishes which attributes its popularity as a material of choice for the backyard decks.
Generally, to synthesize these composites, we prefer to use chopped wood with plastic which provide excellent natural look, light weight, high strength and weather resistance. It is always preferable to apply wood color paint on the top to give a natural wood resemblance.
PVC Decks:
Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) another low maintenance, resistance to scratches, stains and fading is a prevalent materials of construction for backyard deck.
The materials is available in different colors and finishes to make it more popular for those who are interested in aesthetics.
Aluminum Decks:
Aluminum due to its light weight high strength ratio, low maintenance, high corrosion resistance is a very popular material of choice for back yard deck.
In outdoor environment, use of aluminum deck gives modern look due to its wide range of finishes and anodized color options.
Fiber glass deck:
Well, fiber glass is another option to make backyard deck. The materials is low cost deck with low maintenance and long durability.
On the basis of above mentioned information it may be concluded that while selecting materials of construction for outdoor backyard just consider few elements like size of your pocket, durability, low maintenance and aesthetics and your personal preferences. Each materials has some plus or negative aspects therefore while selecting the materials of construction always prefer your personal preferences.