Enhance your outdoor space with the perfect decking! Here’s a guide to help you choose materials, features, and brands for your budget and style.

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Is It Time for a New Deck?

Signs to Replace:
- Cracks, mildew, or unsafe structures may require a rebuild.
- Decks built before 2004 may contain chromated copper arsenate (CCA) wood—refinish carefully to seal in toxic chemicals.

Cost Considerations:
- Include costs for railings, stairs, and support structures.
- Labor costs for new builds or replacing planks often exceed material expenses.

Design Harmony:
- Choose deck colors and finishes that complement your home’s architecture.
- Modern synthetic options offer a variety of styles to match older homes.

Installation Tips:
- Use corrosion-resistant screws or hidden fasteners for durability.
- Pressure-wash and clean before refinishing to ensure longevity.

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Decking Types

1. Wood Decking

• Pros:
• Authentic and natural appearance.
• Options include pressure-treated pine, cedar, redwood, and tropical hardwoods.
• Cons:
• Requires frequent maintenance; prone to cracking and staining.
• Premium woods can be expensive.
• Price: $200–$1,100+ per 100 sq. ft.

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2. Composite Decking

• Pros:
• Mimics wood but requires less maintenance.
• Resistant to mildew, with a variety of colors available.
• Cons:
• Heavier and more expensive than pressure-treated pine.
• Some models may be slippery or stain-prone.
• Price: $300–$700 per 100 sq. ft.

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3. Plastic Decking

• Pros:
• Durable and resistant to elements without staining.
• Lightweight and easy to handle.
• Cons:
• May appear cheap or feel slippery.
• Can sag more than wood in tests.
• Price: $525–$1,200 per 100 sq. ft.

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4. Aluminum Decking

• Pros:
• Long-lasting, slip-resistant, and rigid.
• Interlocking sections create waterproof surfaces.
• Cons:
• Expensive and lacks the natural look of wood.
• Price: $500+ per 100 sq. ft.

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Performance Insights

Durability Against Weather:
- Composite, plastic, and aluminum resist fading and stains better than unfinished wood.

Slip Resistance:
- Wood provides the best grip, while some plastics and composites perform well.

Flexibility in Design:
- Synthetic materials offer various colors and textures, including curved or patterned designs.

Advanced Fasteners:
- Options like hidden fasteners or snap-in systems improve aesthetics and simplify installation.

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Decking Brands

| Brand | Material | Details | Price Range |
|--------------------|--------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------|
| Azek | Composite | High-end, sold at Home Depot and Lowe’s; durable with multiple color options. | $4–$6 per linear foot. |
| Cedar | Wood | Softwood resistant to moisture; requires periodic sealing. | Moderate to high. |
| ChoiceDek | Composite | Budget-friendly, exclusive to Lowe’s. | $1.80+ per linear foot. |
| Fiberon | Composite | Widely available with multiple styles and durability. | Moderate to high. |
| Ipe | Wood | Dense tropical hardwood, naturally water-resistant. Seek FSC-certified sustainable options. | High. |
| Pressure-Treated Pine | Wood | Affordable and weather-resistant; widely available. | Low to moderate. |
| Trex | Composite | Popular brand offering a wide range of products; available at Home Depot and Lowe’s. | $2–$6+ per linear foot. |
| Veranda | Composite | Exclusive to Home Depot; budget-friendly composite decking. | $1.50+ per linear foot. |

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Decking Tips for Longevity

Prep Before Staining:
- Clean thoroughly to remove mildew and stains.
- Use a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 3 parts water) for tough spots.

Choose the Right Fasteners:
- Use coated screws to prevent corrosion.
- Opt for hidden fasteners for a seamless look.

Test for Safety :
- Inspect regularly for cracks or structural issues.
- Replace old boards with durable alternatives to ensure safety.

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Bottom Line

Whether you prefer the natural beauty of wood or the low-maintenance appeal of composites and aluminum, there’s a decking material to suit every style and budget. Prioritize durability, safety, and aesthetics for a deck that enhances your outdoor space for years to come.

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