The most efficient way of extending the living area outside is by constructing a deck. It makes it what to do when I want to relax, have my friends and even have and feel the breath of fresh air without driving to any destination. However, there is still a critical decision to consider beforehand, and that is whether to put up natural wood or composite made decking materials. Each has its pros and cons, and every option is appropriate to you depending on your life, monies, and future objectives.
In coming up with this choice, expert advice is also sought by many homeowners. This is why it can be effective to communicate with close deck contractors. These experts have the ability to describe the material choices, exchange design solutions, and conduct you through building permits and construction mandates.
The traditional one is wood decks and they are used since ages. They are constructed using natural lumber, which may be pressure treated to be used as pine, cedar, or redwood. Wood has a classic and warm appearance, and it suits most outstyle environments, and this is what is appreciated by homeowners. It may also cost less to initialize wood decks (in basic lumber), particularly basic lumber. Natural wood, however, will need a lot of maintenance that will maintain its beauty and its strength.
Composite decks are prepared using a combination of plastic and woodfiber that is formed through recycles. It is a contemporary substance that is meant to resemble wood, but requires lesser maintenance. Composite decking does not require any staining, sealing or painting. It is reistant to weathering, like rot, and mold as well as to insects destruction and is a tough material to use in the long run outdoors. Composite is preferred by many homeowners because it saves on the expenses of maintaining their houses.
Wood decks possess a cheaper initial cost in comparison. Lumber is also less expensive to purchase and can be often installed faster. However, spending on the stains, sealants and repair will increased over time on the wood. In some cases composite decks can pay more at first but in the long term they can save money. Composite decks have a warranty up to 25 and above, which aims to minimize the costs over time.
Maintenance is one of the largest variations between these two alternatives. In terms of maintenance, wood decks require frequent maintenance to remain firm and appeal to the eye. This involves sanding, staining and sealing as well as soaking in the replacement of boards at times. On the other hand, composite decks require minimum cleaning using soap and water. The homeowners who are busy people are attracted to composite by this low-maintenance feature.
One of the factors that have a great influence on the decision is durability. Wood is immortal of price, at least, and may last 10 to 20 years something with proper. Most of the time the poor maintenance and bad weather will reduce its lifespan. Composite decking typically has a longer life which can be 25-30 years. The product is not damaged by weather and is not attractive to termites, and it stands the test of time with regard to heavy pedestrian traffic. Composite is usually safer to use especially by owners of homes who are interested in having a deck which will last them many years.
The two materials have an impact on the environment. Wood is biological and is biodegradable, and finding lumber will create deforestation as long as they are not obtained in a responsible manner. The recycled products used in the manufacture of composite decks such as plastics and wood fibers also minimize wastage. Although composite does not biodegrade, it presents long durability of use thus being environmental friendly to the majority of households.
Aesthetics and tactile experience of a deck are no less significant than its price and its longevity. As we all know wood possesses a natural beauty that cannot be substituted. Its textures, shades and smell make it have a classic outdoors feel. Composite has been enhanced in time, and it has many variants of colors as well as textures which may seem like wood. Tones available to the homeowners are both contemporary gray and traditional brown colors that suit the design of the house.
The choice should even be based on safety. Wood decks are slips when wet and the surface undergoes splintering in the long-run. Families that have children or pets can have this as a problem. Composites decking cannot be cut into splinters which allows people to walk in bare feet without reaching the ground, thus are safer. In many families, this is one of the major reasons why they would choose composite as opposed to the natural wood.
Whatever your budget, lifestyle, and design objective is, consider the use of wood and composite when deciding. Wood decks could be a rewarding option should one like the natural wood and does not object to routine maintenance. Composite might be the way to go in case you want to have long-lasting beauty and minimum maintenance. These two alternatives will both be able to bring value to your house and enable a pleasant outdoor lifestyle.
Which one is better, a composite deck or a wood deck? That is a question of what you, as a homeowner, find interesting. Wood has a classic appearance and a reduced initial price but needs extra attention. Composite is more expensive initially but it has easy maintenance, longer life and is safer. Through a close consideration of these, it is possible to select a deck that suits your requirements, style, and future expectations.
