Updating or Building a New Deck?!
Just like a snowmobile, a deck generally speaking is only used a few months out of the year. At least that’s how things are here in Montana. Just like that snow machine, a deck can be a popular place if the weather is right. Over the last few years companies have really came along way in the decking world. Over the last 10+ years I have been fortunate to build with each of these products. Each had their pros and cons.
Moving forward I will elaborate on the various products you can use, that will be good for your lifestyle and your checkbook.
Most Popular and Economical: Pressure Treated Wood
This type of material is still the most common, probably because of the price difference. An advantage is you can change the color of your deck stain if you wanted to. The cons with using this material is that it will eventually twist, warp, and crack. The wood also has moisture in it, and over time boards will shrink at different rates. Lastly the upkeep is the most common negative attribute. If you don’t mind being committed to deck maintenance from time to time then this is your material. Cost: $20/Sq Ft
It just comes natural?: Cedar/Redwood
Just like the artist George Strait who sang that song, Redwood and Cedar are still hot items still to this day. When you buy a Strait album you know nothing has changed. Same with these two species of woods.
Some people are the same way when choosing decking. This material has similar qualities that Pressure Treated offer. The chemicals used to put TREAT in PT are not necessary with these western softwoods. Redwood and Cedar have a natural resistance to insects and fungus and offer a more appealing look to using PT. You will have to put some sort of sealer on these otherwise your deck will turn a soft gray over time and your deck will be about as gone as a deck can get. Cost: $25-$35/Sq Ft
The Ferrari: IPE (e-pay)
Do you want the best? Just like the exotic car, IPE out performs it’s domestic competitors in just about every category. The lifespan of a deck built from this Brazilian Imported material is about 35 years. The wood is so dense that insects can’t even squeeze through. My first IPE experience was constructing a deck that was in the shape of a leaf/s. It had a midrib running through the entire deck with boards running into it serving as the lateral veins. Having to pre-drill every single fastener along with replacing saw blades daily made the task of building this type of deck felt like your were building a sports car not a KIA, it took a lot of time and effort. If money isn’t a concern for you then try this material, you won’t be disappointed. Just think the deck will still be looking great the day you pay off that exotic sports car :) Cost: $50-$65/Sq Ft
Finally upgraded to a SmartPhone?: Composite
You finally got sick of being the one person in your group who couldn’t receive group messages or using a Rand McNally map in your car when on family vacations. Just like smart phones, people are moving towards this man-made decking at a rapid rate. Considered a “green” building material, you can feel all warm and fuzzy knowing that no trees were harmed in the process. The upfront costs to have a deck built are higher than other materials but it earns back small wins over time. Do your homework before selecting a manufacturer. With a composite deck you can now leave the sander and sealer on the shelf along with your map while you shake your head and ask, “How did I do it back then?” Cost: $30-$45/Sq Ft
A deck made of plumbing?: PVC/Azek
Yes, you heard correct. A decking material made from PVC. It’s a little cheaper than IPE and more than composite but it shares strong similarities. This option is engineered so you can let your dog run a muck on the deck.You picked out a stain resistant carpet cause you were worried about spilling that Cabernet, well now you can spill on your deck and feel at ease.To build this you will pay $40-$55/Sq Ft
Hopefully this post will help you decide which material is the best for your pocketbook and watch. These prices are to give you an idea of cost not an actual figure of what your contractor should charge. Who knows what you’ve seen on DIY :) Keep in mind, although it may cost a few extra dollars to upgrade, which you can always get back. The one thing you cannot get back is the most valuable asset we all have, and that is time.
Tim
