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When considering a new deck installation in Columbus, the things on your mind are most likely “how much will my new deck cost?” or “who should I invite over for my first cookout?” But once you start speaking with a contractor, you’ll notice something more immediately pressing: there are a lot of options to choose from when picking your new deck!
Among the factors involved, which material you choose for your deck may be the most important to the durability and longevity of your deck. Wondering which deck material is best? Follow along while the pros at APCO break down the basics.
Beyond pure aesthetic differences, which are worth consideration all their own, the material you choose will impact literally every other factor involved. Picking the “best” material really means picking the best for your needs and situation. Materials vary in a range of ways, including:
Wood is timeless and still one of the most popular options for home decking in Columbus and the surrounding areas. It is relatively easy on your budget, depending on the wood you choose, and stands up well over extended periods of time. Wood’s largest failings lie in overall resistance and durability. While wood can resist pests and weather, it requires coating and re-coating to maintain these benefits. Because of this, wood is the highest maintenance material option.
On the plus side, however, exotic woods like teak can provide a great custom look with some added perks—though the cost for these materials is a bit higher!
Composite decks are a mixture of wood fiber and recycled plastics. The goal is to create a decking material that looks just like a wood deck but mitigates or removes the drawbacks that standard wood decking brings to the table. Composite decks are nearly impervious to rot, they can stand up to tons of wear and use while looking great, and they are low-maintenance, needing little more than a broom or a hose from time to time to keep looking their best.
The one drawback of composite decking lies in the price, which is typically about 50% higher than wood decking. With that said, composite decks are rated to last 30 years or more—easily double or triple the lifespan of traditional wood.
Pressure-treated wood decks have been treated with chemical preservatives. While a bit higher in cost than untreated wood, pressure-treated decks come in nearly all of the same versatile options and provide great protection against rot and pest intrusion. Overall, pressure-treated wood is considered a safe go-to for many homeowners.
While the initial investment may give some homeowners pause, our team often suggests composite wood decking for homeowners looking for the “best” deck material. The overall benefits—strength, weather- and pest-resistance, longevity, and low-maintenance—make it the best value overall and over time. As an added bonus, composite decks are splinter-free!
Interested in custom composite decking in the Columbus, Ohio area? Connect with APCO online, or dial 614-254-5489!
The Architectural Products Company
The Architectural Products Company