Top 4 Types of Outdoor Decking – Why Composite Decking Is Most Recommended?

Are you redecorating your home? Many people like to make changes to their home, whether it's adding something new, replacing old fixtures, or doing the entire outside of your home. A great thing about changing your home is that you can do almost anything you want because you have a unique house, and it's fun to make it your own. But there are things you need to consider when making changes to your home. When you decide to spruce up the outside of your house, or you're building a new one, what type of outdoor flooring will the place have? 

If you are looking to know more about all types of outdoor decking, you have come to the right place. We are going to cover the different types of decking; what are their benefits? And where should you use them? So, let's get started. To buy your favorite floor decking material, visit The Composite Company.

What Is Decking and Why It's Important?

Decking is a layer of material that goes on top of an exterior floor. Many decking materials are designed to mimic wood, brick, or stone, so they look natural on the house. Cedar and cypress are often found in southern areas, while pressure-treated pine is more common in northern regions.

Pressure-treated pine is widely available and inexpensive. It's a good choice for decking because it resists rot and termites, and unlike cedar and cypress, it's generally available in 4 by 8-foot lengths, making installation easier. Cedar and cypress are more expensive, but they offer a natural look that works well in many parts of the country. They typically come pre-stained and ready to install, which saves labor. Cedar and cypress also resist rot but need to be stained every few years to protect them.

Composite decking is becoming increasingly popular. It's made from plastic and wood, so it's more durable and lasts longer than pressure-treated pine. It resists rot and termites and is available in a wide variety of colors. Composite decking is more expensive than pressure-treated pine, but it's less expensive than cedar and cypress.

Multiple Types of Decking – Which One Is the Best?

We have mentioned the most popular types of decking materials below. These include:

1. Wood
2. Redwood
3. Cedar
4. Composite

The materials above are all native to the Rocky Mountain region. Wood, in particular, is popular because it offers a cozy, natural look. Redwood, cedar, and pressure-treated are stain-resistant, making them easy to maintain.

If you aren't sure what type of deck would work best for your home, this guide will help you narrow your options.

Wood Decking:

A wooden deck can add beauty and function to your home. If it's well constructed and maintained, it can add value to your home. If you're considering a wooden deck, here are a few tips:

1. Use suitable wood. Wood decks come in many varieties, including cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine. Your choice of wood will depend on your climate, the use you'll get out of your deck, and your budget. If you're building your deck from scratch, consider composite decking. It's easier to install, less expensive to maintain, and won't rot or splinter.
2. Have a professional do the work. Wood decks must be built with high-quality wood or composite materials, and they must be properly fastened and finished with stains, sealers, and protective topcoats.
3. Plan out your deck design. Decide what features you want your deck to have, such as benches, planters, a fire pit, or a patio. Once you've decided, place those features around your deck, so they don't obstruct traffic.
4. Consider lighting. Illuminate your deck with lightings, such as solar lights and path lights.
5. Use plants to soften your deck. Tall plants can help ease the appearance of your deck, especially if you live in a hot climate.
6. Protect your deck. Treated lumber lasts about 15 years, but it's best to replace it after nearly 12 years. If your deck is exposed to water, you'll need a preservative.
7. Have a privacy screen. A privacy screen can separate your deck from neighbors or your home.
8. Don't neglect your deck. A well-maintained deck can add beauty and function to your home.

Redwood Decking

Redwood decking is a stylish and durable product, and it's available in a wide variety of styles. You can use redwood decking for everything from a traditional deck to a modern treehouse.

If you're thinking about using redwood decking, we've got some tips to help you make the right choice.

1. Think about your passion. If you want a splendid floor, a redwood deck is an obvious choice. But if your area doesn't get much rain, redwood decking may not be the best choice.
2. Consider your climate. Redwood decking is resistant to moisture and insects, but it doesn't do well in places with a lot of heat. Redwood doesn't hold well under high temperatures, so it may not be the best choice if you live in a scorching climate.
3. Get samples. Before you commit to redwood decking, consider getting pieces of the material. Get illustrations in different sizes and styles to see for yourself how redwood decking looks and how well it holds up in other conditions.
4. Consider your aesthetic. Redwood decking is available in many different colors and finishes. Choose the color that you feel best reflects your style and design preferences.
5. Know the limitations. Redwood decking is more expensive than composite decking, and it's also more labor-intensive to install. But if you don't mind those limitations, redwood decking can be a beautiful addition to your home.

Composite Decking:

Composite decking is resistant to moisture, staining, and fading, making it a good choice in environments where exposure to water is every day. And it's more slip-resistant than natural wood, making it safer for outdoor spaces.

There are a few points to think about before you install composite decking.

1. Style - Most composite decking comes in a variety of finishes. The differences in color, texture, and finish can affect how your deck looks. Some finish options, such as embossed or grain boards, have subtle variations to look more realistic.
2. Find a look you like - Most composite decking comes in standard or longboards, as well as in narrow strips. You can also get boards that look like wood that's been painted, stained, or weathered, which can give your deck a more rustic or natural look.
3. Consider the finish and installation - Composite decking comes in standard boards as well as longboards. Longboards can be used horizontally or vertically to create a unique design.
4. Get the proper warranty - Most composite decking comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
5. Many composite decking boards come in pieces that are easy to handle and install so that you can install your decking on your own.

Cedar Decking:

Cedar is gaining popularity as a decking material for homeowners. It's relatively resistant to rot and decay, and it's an attractive wood that comes in a wide variety of styles.

If you're thinking of installing cedar decking, read on for tips about choosing the suitable species, preparing your deck, and working with it.

1. It is choosing the suitable option - There are multiple things you should know about cedar. First, it comes in various grades, with grades 1 through 4 designating the amount of heartwood present.
2. You are planning your deck - Once you've chosen a option, you can begin preparing your deck. If you're planning on entertaining, a deck that's at least 10 feet long and 12 feet high is a good idea.

How Composite Decking Is the Better Than Other Types of Decking Material?

Composite decking is more popular today than ever, and it's easy to see why. It's low maintenance, durable, and most of all - beautiful.

Composite decking, also known as synthetic decking, consists of recycled plastic, bamboo and wood fibers blended. The result is a material that looks like wood but requires very little maintenance.

Composite decking requires minimal upkeep. Manufacturers recommend periodic washing with soap and water, and it's possible to apply mixed decking oil, which penetrates the material and seals it.

If you use oil, you'll need to rinse it off once a year, but if you don't, you don't need to give any thought to your composite deck at all. Unlike traditional decking, composite decking never needs staining. Composite decking is durable.

Bottom Line

No doubt, there are multiple types of decking, but composite decking is one of the best decking materials so far. This is due to few reasons, and these are mentioned above. Furthermore, the popularity of composite decking is because composite decking is low maintenance, durable, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly. Compared to other decking materials, composite decking outperforms durability, ease of care, and price.

You can find the best composite decking materials from The Composite Company.

Which parts have been most valuable to you? Are there any other ways you think this article can be improved?