When building a deck, it is crucial to use the best and most durable materials so that it stands the test of time. However, there a few options to choose from, and selecting the best can be challenging. If you are faced with such a situation, don’t worry; this article delves into the best materials and durable decking materials to help you make the right decision.
The Best and Most Durable Decking Materials
Durability refers to the ability of a decking material to resist damage from general wear and tear, as well as constant exposure to the elements.
Here is a highlight of some of the best and most durable decking materials.
Composites
As one of the best decking materials, composites are made from a mixture of plastic and wood fibres.
The best attributes of the two materials are combined to allow the deck to have a natural wood finish and waterproofing features that are not available in natural woods.
Due to its plastic fibres, composites are resistant to splitting, splintering, mould growth, UV, and weather damage too.
This enables composites to be very beautiful and look like natural woods.
A composite deck requires low maintenance and can last between 25-50 years.
Aluminium
Aluminium is rarely used as a decking material in a residential setting.
However, it is commonly used in an industrial environment.
Aluminium is the strongest decking material that is resistant to most damages, including rust.
However aluminium decking is quite hard to keep cool despite during hot weather, plus it’s more expensive than other options.
Hardwoods
Hardwoods are more durable and denser as compared to softwoods.
Due to their high density, they are more resistant to insect attack, fire, and moisture too.
However they can fade quickly due to exposure to UV light and other issues relating to wood.
The thickness of the wood also means that it is more challenging to work with hardwoods compared to softwoods.
They also require more maintenance to ensure that they last, including oiling, cleaning, and refinishing after every few years.
But they can last up to 25 years if well kept.
Pressure-Treated Woods
Pressure-Treated Woods refers to woods covered with chemicals to enhance their protection.
This covering makes the decking material more resistant to weather, rotting, and insect attack.
They also tend to last longer compared to untreated wood and depending on the nature of the timber, they can last for more than 25 years.
Plastic
Plastic decking is made from a combination of different polymers.
The materials used to make plastics are synthetic, which is why they are resistant to most damages.
However, plastic decks heat very fast, can be slippery, and don’t have a natural look.
However plastic decks are very low maintenance and can last between 25-30 years.
Antislip
Antislip is an excellent choice, especially if you want to install your deck in wet weather areas and around hot tub.
They’re intended to enhance your safety by minimising slips and falls by providing a textured surface which is easier to grip underfoot..
It is one of the safest and most popular decking options.
Final Thoughts
Decking materials differ in terms of durability, resistance to damage, and aesthetics.
Before you settle on any deck, it is crucial to familiarise yourself with the best and long-lasting decking materials, or talk to our expert deck builders who can give you some advice!
