by Isabelle Esteves

Created on: June 29, 2009   Last Updated: January 31, 2010

Decks are a very good investment when it comes to adding value to your home.  If you have decided to add one or to replace or enlarge your existing deck, there are a variety of materials for you to choose from. There are some differences in price and in durability making it very important that you consider all the different options that are available.

Wood

Choosing to use wood isn't as simple a choice as it may sound. There are many types of wood with many types of finishes. One thing that you want to consider  first is if you want to use pretreated wood. Pretreated wood will stand up better to the elements and will also not be food for termites. Southern pine is one of the preferred choices for decking. If you want to go a step up you can choose cedar or redwood which respond well to the elements.

If you can afford it, there are exotic woods that are attractive and durable.. Bamboo is one of the newest entries into the deck building industry. Bamboo is one of the world's fastest renewable woods and durable as well as beautiful. It is insect and mold resistant and the good news is that it is just about the same price as any other wooden decking material except mahogany.

Even if your wood is pretreated it is going to require maintenance. You need to stain or paint the wood so that water is not absorbed. Yearly applications will keep it looking fresh and new. In between you can use a pressure washer to remove any dirt or stains.

Composite

Composite decking has gained in popularity in recent years as much for its cost as for its durability. Composite decking material is made from a combination of plastic and wood products. With composite decks you don't have to stain or paint them and you won't get any slivers. Composite decking like decking wood comes in a variety of brands and prices. The price for composite decking like Trex can run about 50% more than a good medium quality wood deck, it is approx. the price of a mahogany deck.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a good choice for a pool deck as it stays cool in the sun and is not slippery. They are built with drainage so that you don't have to worry about water building up on the deck. They are not however as attractive as wooden or composite decking. 

Wooden Tiles

If you are building a deck that is going to be at ground level, there are wooden decking tiles that are interlocking and can be put together the same way that kids put together an interlocking puzzle. This allows you to create a wooden deck with a design.

These are just some of the materials that are available to create or enlarge the deck on your home. You can use this article point as a starting point for your research.

Once you have decided that you are going to add a deck to your home you have a lot of decisions to make. It isn't just about the design you choose it is going to be about the material. Talk to your contractor or if you're are going to DIY talk to the people in the know at the local lumber yard, Home Depot, Lowe's or hardware store. Do your research so that you can make an informed choice.

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