Bridging the gap between nature and human construct has always been the main challenge for architects and builders around the world. Decks personify that challenge in that they are simultaneously outdoors and a part of your home. They are the in-betweens, fascinating bridges between the coziness of one’s abode and the external world. When it comes to making a choice, however, the goings can get tough: decks offer variety in material, shape, and function.
Decks today are made of a plethora of different materials—some of them made possible by recent advances in technology. The most common material, still, is wood. Southern yellow pine, specifically, is the most popular pressure-treated wood used in decks—it is affordable and resilient. Other woods include western red cedar, redwood, ipé, and mahogany. These have varying characteristics both aesthetically and functionally.
Lately, a whole new brand of longer-lasting, low upkeep decks has made its way to the market, much to the delight of those with no extra time on their hands. Composites made up of materials such as polypropylene, polyethylene, plastic, and wood offer decks with longer lives and resistance to wear and tear. Aluminum, a famously cheap and low-maintenance material, is also employed in decks around the world. Finally, one last material available is laminated vinyl membrane—this gives off shine, keeps the deck dry, and allows for a long lifespan.
Decks can be designed and built by deck builders—they can help you with every step of the process including planning, purchasing of materials, processing of materials, and finally, installation proper. Another solution is to purchase the materials yourself (many are sold in convenient, interlocking formations) and carry out the project alone. It is recommended that you read up a bit on decks before attempting to install one—it isn’t as simple a job as it looks.