Deck Construction

Cedar Decks

The Advantages of Cedar Decks

* The biggest advantage of cedar decks is the lower price point. Cedar, on average, is a better value than composite decking for the same size deck. If your budget is a primary concern for your deck project, cedar will always be a better value than composites.

* Cedar decks can hold their value. Adding any deck can improve your home's value, but there is virtually no return on investment difference between the value of a cedar deck and a composite one. In other words, cedar costs less than composite but still adds the same amount of value to your home.

Price $25-$40 SQFT

Composite Decks

The Advantages of Composite Decks

* Durability: Composite decking is designed for maximum durability. It resists fading, staining, scratching and mold, and won’t rot, crack or warp. It’s also insect-proof and splinter-free, making it safer and more comfortable for families with kids and pets.

* Low-maintenance: With composite decking, you never need to worry about sanding, staining or painting. Just an occasional soap-and-water cleaning is all that’s needed to maintain stability and beauty for decades. Trex decking even comes with a 25-year Fade and Stain Warranty, ensuring that it will continue to look and perform as well as the first day it was installed.

* Aesthetics: Featuring high-definition wood grain patterns and rich, saturated colors, composite decking looks and feels more natural than ever before. Color options range from deep earth tones to spicy reds and pristine greys, including tropically-inspired boards that feature the distinct streaked look of exotic hardwoods. In addition to the range of decking looks available, homeowners also can find a wide selection of composite accessories, such as railings, stairs, gates, pergolas and furniture, to create a truly customized outdoor space.

* Sustainability: Composite decking provides the look and feel of wood without the environmental impact. The deck boards are made using recycled content, including reclaimed industrial wood scraps and recycled plastic from common items such as shopping bags and newspaper sleeves.

* Value: Although the initial cost of composite decking can be higher, when you factor in the cost of ongoing maintenance required with a wood deck, a composite deck can end up paying for itself in well under 10 years.

Price $35 - $55 SQFT

Treated Wood Decks

The Advantages of Pressure-Treated Wood Decks

* Pressure-treated (PT) lumber is wood that’s been treated with chemicals to make it resistant to rot and insects. PT wood costs the least of the wood options, which is probably why it’s so popular. 

* While stainless steel fasteners won’t corrode, they’re expensive, which doesn’t make them practical — especially if you’re trying to save some money by going with PT lumber in the first place. Your best bet is to use vinyl-coated “green” wood/deck screws. These are resistant to the chemicals in PT wood and some even have lifetime guarantees.

* To keep PT wood looking good, regular maintenance is required — sanding, sealing, and painting or staining. It’s less maintenance if you stain it rather than paint it — but if you want longevity with little to no maintenance, consider another material.

Price $18 - $25 SQFT