Decking Buying Guide

What is Decking

Decking is a flat surface built outside of the house, typically elevated from the ground and connected to the main building by a door. Decking is usually made of wood, plastic, or composite materials, and can be used for a variety of purposes such as outdoor living, dining, and entertainment. In this article, we lay out a useful Decking Buying Guide.

Main Types of Decking

Wood decking

 Made from natural wood, it gives a classic look and is strong and durable. It can be painted or stained and can be found in various types such as redwood, cedar, and pressure-treated pine. However, it requires frequent maintenance such as sanding, sealing, and staining, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Composite decking

 Made from recycled materials such as plastic, wood chips, and sawdust, it has a similar appearance to natural wood and requires less maintenance. It is more expensive than wood decking but is more durable, resists insect damage and fading, and has a longer lifespan.

PVC decking

Made from 100% plastic, it is the most durable and low-maintenance type of decking. It is fade-resistant and does not require painting, staining, or sealing. It can also resist scratches, stains, and mold. However, it is more expensive than other types of decking.

Aluminum decking

Made from aluminum, it is the most expensive type of decking. It is fire-resistant, slip-resistant, and has a longer lifespan. It does not rust, fade, or crack, and does not require maintenance such as staining or painting. It is ideal for areas with a lot of rainfall, snow, or direct sunlight.

Bamboo decking

Made from bamboo, it is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional decking materials. It has a similar appearance to wood and is strong and durable. It is resistant to insects, moisture, and mold, but is more expensive than wood decking.

Hybrid decking

Made from a combination of wood and plastic or other materials, it provides the look of natural wood and the durability of composite or PVC decking. It is resistant to mold, mildew, and fading, and does not require painting, staining, or sealing.

Overall, choosing the right type of decking depends on the homeowner’s preference, budget, and maintenance requirements. Each type of decking has its own advantages and disadvantages and can provide a unique outdoor living experience.

Decking Buying Guide – Points to Consider

Here are some steps you can follow when buying decking for your house:

1. Research the different types of decking materials available and compare their durability, maintenance requirements, and cost. Some popular options include wood, composite, PVC, and aluminum decking.
2. Consider the climate and weather conditions in your area, as some materials may perform better in certain conditions than others.
3. Consider the architectural style of your house and choose a material that complements it.
4. Check for certifications and ratings of the decking materials to ensure they are of good quality and meet industry standards.
5. Get multiple quotes from different decking contractors, and compare their prices, services, and reputation.
6. Check the contractor’s credentials, such as licenses, certifications, and insurance, to ensure they are qualified and professional.
7. Ask for references and check their work history and reviews to gauge their work quality.
8. Ask for a detailed estimate of the cost, including the cost of materials and labor, as well as a timeline for completion.
9. Review the warranty and guarantee on the materials and the workmanship of the contractor.
10. Once you have chosen a contractor, sign a contract that outlines the scope of the work, the materials to be used, the cost, and the warranty.
11. Once the work is completed, be sure to check the quality of the work, and ensure that all warranties and guarantees are in order.
12. Consider a low maintenance decking material, such as composite or PVC decking, which requires less upkeep than traditional wood decking.
13. Consider decking material that is slip-resistant and safe to walk on, especially if the deck will be located near a pool or near steps.
14. Choose decking material that is resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage.
15. Opt for decking material that is available in a variety of colors and finishes, to match your house’s architectural style.
16. Consider decking material that is easy to install and maintain, and can be easily replaced if needed.
17. Look at decking material that can be easily cleaned and sealed to protect it from the elements.
18. Consider the option of a decking material that can be easily removed if you decide to change the design or layout of your deck in the future.
19. When working with a contractor, make sure they are knowledgeable about the decking material you choose, and are able to provide installation and maintenance instructions.
20. Before hiring a contractor, check to see if they have any complaints or negative reviews on their Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile or other review sites.
21. Go for decking material that can provide added safety features such as built-in lighting, or a railing system for added security.
22. Choose decking material that can provide added aesthetic features such as built-in planters, or a pergola for added shade.
23. Consider the option of a decking material that can provide added functional features such as built-in seating or a built-in fire pit for added entertainment.
24. Look at decking material that is made from recycled materials and is environmentally friendly.
25. Consider decking material that is easy to clean, and maintain. Some decking materials require regular power washing, staining, and sealing to maintain their appearance.
26. Before making a final decision, make sure to ask any questions you may have and clarify any doubts you have with the manufacturer or retailer.
27. Once you have chosen a decking contractor, make sure that they provide you with a detailed contract outlining the scope of work, materials, timeline and payment schedule, as well as any warranties and guarantees.
28. Make sure that the contractor obtains any necessary permits and adheres to any local building codes and regulations.
29. After the installation, be sure to have the contractor walk you through the decking and explain how to care for and maintain the decking material.
30. Make sure to properly maintain your decking by cleaning it regularly, and by applying sealers and stains as needed to protect it from the elements.

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