A deck is a flat surface that supports weight. It is generally built outdoors and is elevated off the ground, but may also be attached to a building. The word "deck" derives from the deck of a ship. Typically, decks are constructed of wood or other materials. Depending on the design, wood decking is an excellent choice for a variety of outdoor applications.For  more helpful tips, view here.

 

 

Pressure-treated lumber is widely available and is the most common. However, it's not as durable as real wood and can splinter if not maintained properly. If you choose this type of decking, you should remember to wear protective gloves and a mask when working with it. You should also never burn the wood as the chemical used in its treatment can be harmful to your health. Also, for the best results, use stainless steel fasteners.

 

Cedar is another wood that can be used for decking. It is beautiful and durable, but it needs regular maintenance to maintain its natural beauty. It requires staining every two to three years and needs to be pressure-washed annually to keep it looking its best. This wood is moderately priced, but its cost will be higher than pressure-treated or composite wood.

 

Redwood is a tight-grained, dense wood that is resistant to decay and insects. It also has a proven lifespan of over 75 years. In addition to its natural resistance, redwood is also low maintenance and offers a long lifespan. For this reason, it's a great choice for decking.

 

Composite wood is an alternative to wood decking, but the cost is higher than that of wood. Composite materials are not as strong and rigid as wood, and they move more in response to temperature fluctuations. Depending on the brand you choose, the composite may be less expensive, but the lifecycle cost may be higher than that of wood.

 

If you want a beautiful deck that lasts for decades, you should consider using a tropical hardwood, such as ipe or mahogany. Although they cost a lot more, tropical hardwoods are more durable. They are more resistant to insects, moisture, and rot. The downside of these materials is that they cannot be screwed or nailed without an initial pilot. Moreover, they are also susceptible to cracking and weathering.

 

Pressure-treated wood is another popular option for decking. It is easy to obtain and affordable, but requires maintenance and staining once a year. However, pressure-treated wood can cause a hazard if the chemicals used are not used properly. In addition, it may release toxic gas when burned.

 

When choosing a material for your deck, you should consider its durability, cost, ease of maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. The five most common materials for decking come with their own pros and cons.You can get more enlightened on this topic by reading here:https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Composite_decking.