Your deck will become the center of your backyard retreat. A deck increases the amount of livable space in your home. Indeed, some homeowners find it fast becomes the most enjoyable part of their house.

When you have a new residential deck installed, one of the major choices you'll make is the material for the flooring. This material will have a big impact on the look and upkeep of your new deck, not to mention the cost. Below are some of the most common materials for your deck's floor.

1. Cedar

When you think of a deck, cedar is probably the first material that comes to mind. Cedar offers its characteristic red tones, which are attractive. However, cedar does need regular staining to keep it from developing silvery tones. Some people like that aged patina, though. Cedar is also naturally resistant to rot and insect infestation. Cedar is middle of the road for materials pricing.

2. Pressure-Treated Lumber

Pressure-treated lumber is a budget option for wood decking. The fabricators pressurize the wood with preservatives that make it insect- and rot-resistant. Your base is still natural wood, though, so you get the characteristic graining. The contractors can also paint or use a stain to finish the deck, both of which need to be re-applied. Pressure-treated lumber is a budget option.

3. Bamboo

Bamboo is relatively new on the scene for deck flooring. Like wood, it's a natural material. However, the manufacturers make a series of compressed stalks that resemble wood. The contractors will have to stain the surface. The big benefit of bamboo flooring is the plants replicate themselves quickly, so it's a sustainable option. Bamboo deck flooring is also remarkably budget-friendly.

4. Composite

When homeowners want the look of wood but none of the upkeep, they usually opt for composite decking. Indeed, as Landscaping Network points out, composite decking shouldn't warp or fade for at least 25 years. Manufacturers start with a core of ground wood and cover it in PVC or plastic, which renders it durable and maintenance-free. Composite is more expensive than wood, though.

5. Aluminum

Another maintenance-free option is aluminum. Like composite, aluminum decking is prefinished and made to resemble wood. What's more, the decking itself is lightweight, so you won't have any structural issues. It even includes a coating that makes the surface slip-resistant. Also as with composite, aluminum flooring is long-lasting. It costs a little less than composite, though.

Weigh costs and upkeep against aesthetics to choose the deck flooring material that best meets your preferences.

Share