Advice from Contractors:

Homeowners Have Many Choices in Deck Materials

By John S. Clark

For homeowners planning to build or replace a deck in the backyard, a common question is, "What kind of wood should I use to build my deck?" Some contractors will tell you that pressure treated wood is the only way to go. But wait—although pressure treated wood is the top choice for the deck frame and supports, it's generally a poor choice for the actual decking.

Why? Well, for one, most of it looks ugly when it's new and looks ugly when it's old. And it splinters like crazy after a couple of years, especially if you don't water-seal it every year. Pressure treated decking also has a tendency to cup, warp, and check (split) as it goes through weather extremes. (One exception is pressure treated Southern yellow pine in select or No. 1 grade. It is harder than West Coast pines.)

What are some alternatives to pressure treated wood? One is Philippine mahogany 1-by-4 decking (also known as meranti). This decking is a dark reddish color with a tight grain, minimal knots, and, when treated with a product like Penofin oil, it looks like teak. Another product that works well is Port Orford cedar. This wood turns a beautiful silver gray when left to weather naturally. Though much more expensive, you might consider vertical grain fir, which is a fairly tight-grained, knot-free species of wood. Redwood is a top choice on the West Coast because it is rot resistant and weathers beautifully.

You will pay more in the short term for Philippine mahogany, Port Orford cedar, vertical grain fir, or redwood than you will for pressure treated wood. However, in the long run, they are each a superior choice because they will look wonderful and weather far better, with proper maintenance, than pressure treated decking ever will.

There is also a newer option: Wood composite or plastic wood has been on the market for a few years now, and more and more companies are starting to use these products. All-plastic decking materials are available, as well as composite wood products. These products are made by mixing plastic and wood together and forming lumber using pressure and/or heat. They hold up well but still look like plastic.

Explore the options available in your area, and ask questions of your contractor to determine the best choice for you. Making the right choice of materials now will help you get the most out of your new deck for many years to come!

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