The materials which will be used to construct your deck vary widely and will have a significant impact on costs. Today there are a dizzying array of materials from which to choose, so let's review some of these and say a few words about the advantages and disadvantages of each.
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The standard workhorse of the deck industry, pressure-treated lumber is so named due to the process in which water-borne insecticide is introduced (forced) into the fibers of the wood via hydraulic pressure. This is typically done in bulk quantities in converted railroad tank cars. The chemical treatment prevents insects (such as termites) and smaller organisms (bacteria) from corrupting the wood and causing its rot and decay. Treated lumber can last for years in contact with the ground and has proven very effective in prolonging the longevity of outdoor wood structures.
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These are plastic-wood materials that are impervious to water and will not rot. Moreover, they resist mold discoloration and are immune from the forces of shrinkage, warping, cupping, splitting and "checking" which operate on all natural wood exposed to the weather. There are many manufacturers of composites, with "Trex" being perhaps the most widely recognized. Other good manufacturers include "Timber Tech" and "Veranda" (Home Depot's brand). These materials are most frequently used for the decking surface in conjunction with pressure-treated lumber framing and either wood or metal rail systems. Most of the manufactures have their own selection of rail systems which can be used in whole or in part with other products. Other accessories include hidden fasteners which eliminate the use of visible nails or screws in the decking and leave a clean and very nice appearance.
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Used in classic balustrades and to replicate colonial and federal era columns, rails, and moldings, these products are completely impervious to rot and decay, and retain their appearance for years. Examples of their use can be seen in Just Decks photos of classic porch porticos, balustrades, balconies and other "period" work. Common brands such as "Fypon" and "Chemcrest" have seen competition from plastic molding and millwork products such as "Azek". Often these products are used together to create unique architectural designs.
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Metals have grown popular in recent years as they provide a fresh, clean and architecturally interesting counterpoint to wood and wood composites. Curved balusters, black flat metal, aluminum and stainless steel have been used to create interesting and unique designs. Perhaps the most interesting use of metal is to be seen in the stainless steel cable wire railings which, in addition to providing a very contemporary look, almost disappear from view and allow spectacular vistas to be unimpeded from inside the house. These systems can be quite expensive, but well worth it to the discriminating customer.
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These include the use of exotic hardwoods and softwoods which are naturally resistant to decay. For example, Redwood and Cedar contain oils that give them superior performance when properly constructed and finished. Other woods having superior resistance to water are mahogany and teak, used in boat decks, etc. Exotic wood decking choices are wide-ranging and include Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa and others - providing a rich, beautiful and long-lasting alternative to traditional decking materials.
Just Decks has experience with the use of all the materials mentioned above, and will design a deck to your specifications using any which you prefer. Different materials can usually be combined to create a system that will be unique, elegant, artistic and cost-effective.