The Ultimate Guide to Decking for Outdoor

Every homeowner wants to ensure that their outdoor space provides as much comfort and enjoyment as possible, and with the proper decking material, you can achieve just that. Several types of decking, including alfresco decking, offer various benefits, but it can be difficult to determine which one will best suit your space and lifestyle.

Benefits of Outdoor Decking

There are many benefits to outdoor decking, including:
  • Increased home value: A well-designed and built deck can increase your home’s resale value by as much as 80%.
  • A beautiful outdoor living space: A deck can create an extra living space that you can use for entertaining, relaxing, or both.
  • Outdoor enjoyment: A deck allows you to enjoy your backyard in a new way. You can host parties, use BBQs, or just relax in the sun.
  • More usable space: If your yard is small, a deck can give you extra space to entertain or enjoy the outdoors.
  That said, here are some reasons to have an outdoor decking:

●       Better Views

There’s nothing like enjoying a summer day from the comfort of your own deck. But before you can relax and take in the view, you need to choose the right decking material. There are a few things to consider when selecting deckings, such as cost, durability, and maintenance. And once installed, you can enjoy the views.  

●       Increased Relaxation

There’s nothing quite like spending time outdoors on a beautiful deck. Decking can make any outdoor space more enjoyable, whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying some quality time with your family. But what kind of decking is best for outdoor use? We have explained the types of decks below for consideration.

●       Added Living Space

Decks can provide a great extension of your home’s living space. But when you’re ready to build, what kind of decking should you use? There are several different types of decking, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. But wood decking will give you the space and aesthetic you need.

●       Aesthetic

No one wants a deck that looks like it’s been neglected. And no one wants to put in much work to maintain it, either. So what’s the best decking for outdoor use? The answer may surprise you. A deck should provide you aesthetic of your home. But that may be determined by two things.   The climate where you live. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, you’ll want to choose a material that can withstand those conditions without requiring too much maintenance. Your budget. Obviously, you’ll want to find a material that fits within your budget. But the higher the budget, the more beautiful a deck will be.

●       Increased Property Value

  Whether you’re looking to increase your property value or simply want to enjoy your backyard more, installing a deck is a great way to do it. However, the property’s value increases with the type of deck you install.

●       Improved Outdoor Entertaining

If you want to improve your outdoor entertaining area, you may wonder what the best decking is. Suppose you want to be holding parties, then choose a deck that supports high traffic and is aesthetic.

●       Low maintenance

  When it comes to choosing to deck for your outdoor space, there are a few things to consider. The first is maintenance. You’ll want to choose a low-maintenance material and easy to care for. Otherwise, you’ll spend all your time keeping up with your deck instead of enjoying it.  

Types of Decks Materials

  Here are the most popular types of decking to help you figure out which one is right for you.

1. Wood Decking

Wood is a good option if you’re looking for durable and easy-to-maintain decking. Wood decking can be made from various woods, including cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine. While wood is a popular choice for decks, it does require more upkeep than other materials.   You’ll need to regularly clean and seal your wood deck to protect it from harmful elements like weather and termites. The right type of sealant will also help reduce the risk of rot and decay.   Consider applying an anti-slip coating to your wood deck as well; this will help prevent injuries due to falls in wet weather.

2. Composite Decking

Composite decking might be the right choice for you if you’re looking for a low-maintenance option. This type of decking is made from wood and plastic, so it’s durable and easy to care for. Composite decking comes in various colors and styles to find the perfect look for your home.   But that’s not all: Composite decking also resists rotting, warping, mold, and mildew better than most other materials. The only downside to this material is that it does not support nails or screws, as other types do; instead, it uses an adhesive for installation.

3. Plastic Decking

Plastic decking is a great decking material for outdoor. It’s a popular choice for decks because it’s durable and easy to maintain. Plus, it comes in various colors and styles to suit any taste. But what are the cons of plastic decking? The main drawback of plastic decking is that it will never age gracefully as real wood does. Instead, over time this type of deck can become brittle and yellowed.   Another disadvantage is that there aren’t many options when it comes to installing this type of decking on stairs or around posts; its natural tendency to warp means that you’ll need clamps or other devices if you want those elements to be flush with the surface.   For DIYers who want an environmentally friendly project, recycled plastic lumber is a cost-effective option that doesn’t contain harmful chemicals. However, these decks are not as sturdy or heavy-duty as some traditional materials like wood or metal, so they may not be appropriate for large decks or high-traffic areas like patios.  

Conclusion

  There are a few things to consider when choosing the best decking for outdoor use. The material should be durable, weather-resistant, easy to clean, and slip-resistant. You’ll also want to make sure it can withstand high traffic areas. There are various decking materials to choose from, so be sure you’ve done your research before making a decision.