Deck building materials: Top 3 Best Picks 2025
When it comes to deck building materials, choosing the right one can greatly improve your outdoor living space. Here’s a quick guide to different materials options:
– Wood Decking: Offers authentic beauty but needs more care, like staining and sealing.
– Composite Decking: Pricier upfront but low-maintenance, stain-resistant, and long-lasting colors.
– Interlocking Tiles: Ideal for renters or temporary setups, with easy installation.
Creating a deck is about more than just adding space; it’s changing your backyard into a comfortable extension of your home. From crafting a stylish patio to building a new deck, your options are endless and can cater to any style or budget. Selecting materials will impact not only the look but also how much maintenance you’ll need to do.
At Lowcountry Ace, we help you bring your visions to life with a variety of deck building materials and expert advice right here in South Carolina. The helpful team at Lowcountry Ace is committed to simplifying the process for both new homeowners and seasoned DIY enthusiasts looking to create their dream deck.
Choosing the Right Decking Material
When selecting deck building materials, the choice often comes down to wood versus composite. Each offers unique benefits and challenges that can impact your deck’s appearance, upkeep, and cost.
Wood Decking
Wood decking is known for its authentic look and natural feel. It brings a classic charm to any outdoor space. However, it requires regular maintenance, such as painting, staining, and sealing, to protect it from the elements and keep it looking fresh.
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Cedar: A popular choice due to its natural resistance to insects and rot. Cedar provides a warm, rich color and can be easier to sand and finish. However, it is a softwood, so it may scratch and dent more easily.
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Ipe: This tropical hardwood is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches and insect damage. It’s perfect for decks with heavy foot traffic. Ipe’s rich color and density mean it can last for decades with proper care. However, it comes at a higher price point and requires the same maintenance level as other hardwoods.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is a blend of wood fibers and plastic, offering a low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood. It eliminates the need for frequent staining or sealing and is engineered to resist fading, staining, and mold.
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Durability: Composite boards are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy use. They won’t warp or rot like wood can.
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Cost: While the initial cost is higher than wood, the long-term savings on maintenance make it a smart investment. You save time and money on upkeep, enjoying a beautiful deck with minimal effort.
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Eco-Friendly: Many composite options use recycled materials, making them a more sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
In summary, choosing between wood and composite for your deck depends on your priorities. If you value an authentic, natural look and don’t mind the upkeep, wood might be your best bet. If you prefer a hassle-free, durable option with vibrant, long-lasting colors, composite could be the way to go.
At Lowcountry Ace, we offer a wide range of deck building materials to suit every need and style. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless beauty of wood or the practical benefits of composite, our team is here to help you make the best choice for your outdoor project.
Top Deck Building Materials
Choosing the right materials is crucial for creating a deck that meets your needs and stands the test of time. Let’s explore some of the top deck building materials, including wood, composite, and interlocking tiles.
Wood Options
Wood remains a classic choice for decks, offering an authentic look and feel. Here are some popular wood options:
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Cedar: Known for its natural resistance to insects and rot, cedar provides a warm, rich color. It’s a softwood, which makes it easier to work with, but it can scratch and dent more easily.
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Ipe: This tropical hardwood is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches and insect damage. Ipe’s rich color and density mean it can last for decades with proper care, making it ideal for decks with heavy foot traffic.
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Accoya: A modified wood known for its durability and stability. Accoya undergoes a process that increases its resistance to rot and decay, offering a long-lasting option with minimal maintenance.
Composite Options
Composite decking is gaining popularity for its low maintenance and durability. Here are some standout composite brands:
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Trex: Trex offers composite boards that resist fading, staining, and mold. They’re made from recycled materials, making them an eco-friendly choice.
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TimberTech: Known for its high-performance boards, TimberTech offers a range of colors and textures. Their products are designed to look like real wood, providing a beautiful, long-lasting deck.
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Deckorators: This brand provides a variety of styles and colors, with boards that resist scratching and fading. Deckorators is perfect for homeowners seeking a stylish and durable decking solution.
Interlocking Tiles
For those looking for an easy-to-install option, interlocking deck tiles are a great choice. They can be placed over existing surfaces, making them ideal for rental properties or temporary setups. Brands like NewTechWood offer composite tiles that mimic the look of wood or stone.
Each material has its benefits, so consider your priorities, whether it’s the natural beauty of wood or the low maintenance of composite. At Lowcountry Ace, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your outdoor space.
Deck Building Essentials
When building a deck, the right hardware and accessories can make all the difference in safety and style. Let’s explore some deck building essentials that ensure your deck is both sturdy and stunning.
Hardware
Building a deck requires more than just boards. You’ll need a variety of hardware to hold everything together:
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Screws: Deck screws are specially designed for outdoor use. They are corrosion-resistant and have a coarse thread for a strong grip. This ensures your deck stays intact, even in harsh weather.
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Connectors and Joist Hangers: These essential components provide structural integrity to your deck. They connect the joists to the ledger board and support beams, ensuring your deck is secure and stable.
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Fasteners: Choose from hidden fasteners for a clean look or traditional options for ease of installation.
Deck Railings
Railings are not just for safety; they add style to your deck. Here’s what to consider:
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Safety: A railing system is crucial for preventing falls, especially if your deck is liftd. Ensure your railing meets local building codes.
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Styles: Railings come in various styles, from classic wood to sleek metal. Choose one that complements your decking material.
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Aluminum and Metal Options: These materials offer modern aesthetics and are low maintenance. Aluminum railings are lightweight but strong, while metal options like steel add a touch of elegance and durability.
Deck Lighting
Lighting transforms your deck into a cozy retreat after sunset. Consider these options:
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Solar Lights: Perfect for eco-friendly homeowners, solar lights charge during the day and illuminate your deck at night without wiring.
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Post Cap Lights: These stylish toppers provide both decoration and functionality, casting a gentle glow around your deck.
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Step Lights: Ensure safety on stairs with low-voltage step lights, which help prevent trips and falls in the dark.
Investing in quality hardware and lighting not only improves the look of your deck but also boosts its safety and longevity. Whether you’re going for a modern metal look or a classic wooden style, the helpful team at Lowcountry Ace is ready to assist you in choosing the best options for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions about Deck Building Materials
What is the best material to use for a deck?
When it comes to choosing the best material for your deck, composite wood often stands out. This material combines the beauty of natural wood with the durability of synthetic materials. Composite decking is low maintenance and offers long-lasting colors. Unlike traditional wood, it doesn’t require regular staining or sealing, making it ideal for busy homeowners.
Composite decks are resistant to rot, warping, and insect damage, ensuring they remain sturdy over time. Brands like Trex and TimberTech offer a range of styles and colors to match any design preference.
How much does a 20×20 deck cost?
The cost of building a 20×20 deck can vary based on the materials you choose. On average, composite decking costs between $10 to $15 per square foot for materials. Installation costs can add another $8 to $12 per square foot. Therefore, a 20×20 composite deck might range from $3,600 to $5,400 for materials alone, with total costs potentially reaching $7,200 to $10,800 when including installation.
For those on a tighter budget, traditional wood options like cedar or pressure-treated pine can be less expensive initially but remember to factor in ongoing maintenance costs.
What is the longest lasting deck material?
If you’re looking for longevity, Ipe decking is a top contender. Known for its incredible durability, Ipe is a dense hardwood that can last up to 50 years with proper care. It naturally resists rot, insects, and weathering, making it an excellent choice for those who want a deck that stands the test of time.
However, Ipe requires some maintenance to preserve its rich color and prevent it from turning gray. Regular oiling and cleaning are recommended to maintain its appearance.
By considering your budget, desired maintenance level, and aesthetic preferences, you can choose the deck material that best suits your needs. Whether it’s the low-maintenance appeal of composite wood or the timeless durability of Ipe, each material offers unique benefits for your outdoor space.
Conclusion
At Lowcountry Ace, we’re not just about providing top-notch deck building materials; we’re about delivering an exceptional customer experience. Our team is always ready to help you find the perfect materials for your project, whether it’s the authentic charm of cedar, the durability of Ipe, or the low-maintenance benefits of composite decking.
Located conveniently in the James Island and Folly Beach areas, we make it easy for you to get everything you need for your home improvement projects. Our wide range of products and local convenience ensure that you can find exactly what you’re looking for without the hassle of visiting multiple stores.
We believe in providing not just products, but solutions. With our home delivery service, you can have your purchases brought right to your doorstep, saving you time and effort. Our knowledgeable staff is always on hand to offer advice and support, ensuring you make informed decisions and achieve successful results.
For all your home improvement needs, visit us at Lowcountry Ace. We’re committed to helping you build the deck of your dreams with quality materials and unbeatable service.
Find more about our home improvement offerings and see how we can help you transform your outdoor space today!
Lowcountry Ace Hardware: Your one-stop shop for home improvement. We offer quality products from trusted brands and expert advice from our experienced staff. Located on James Island, visit us for tools, hardware, fishing gear, power tools, building materials, grills & smokers, electrical and plumbing supplies, and more.
