Owning a deck in those weather conditions is complex. But with the right materials, you can boast a lasting investment. We understand choosing one from the different types can be overwhelming. So we’ve summarized them for you. Let’s explore the most recommended deck building materials, with their pros and cons, so your construction can withstand it all in North Carolina.
Pressure-Treated Decking
Pressure-treated wooden decks are extremely common in the U.S. They are the preferred material for a deck project with a limited budget, as they offer both affordability and durability. The best part is that since they undergo chemical treatment, they’re resistant to rotting, insects, and moisture.
Benefits
- Affordability: One of the most cost-effective decking materials available.
- Easy to Work With: It’s not a tough material to handle, allowing you to reduce labor costs
- Traditional Look: Provides a natural, classic wood appearance that many homeowners love.
- Widely Available: Easy to find in most hardware stores and lumber yards.
- Pest & Rot Resistance: Treated to resist termites and fungal decay.
Disadvantages
- High Maintenance: While more resistant to moisture than other synthetic materials, it requires regular sealing, staining, or painting.
- Splitting & Warping: Prone to warping and cracking due to North Carolina’s humid climate.
- Shorter Lifespan: Compared to other materials, it tends to deteriorate faster, lasting 10-15 years.
Tropical Hardwood
Ipe and Mahogany are a few of the best wood types for building decks in North Carolina. Considered exotic hardwoods, they offer a unique appearance, great longevity, and high maintenance. These woods naturally resist pests, rot, and harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for homeowners in North Carolina who love wood decking materials and can indulge in them.
Benefits
- Durability: Naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Offers a rich, luxurious look that enhances outdoor spaces.
- Longevity: Can last 25+ years with proper maintenance.
Disadvantages
- Expensive: One of the priciest deck boards available.
- Hard to Work With: Requires specialized tools for installation due to density.
- Requires Sealing: Needs regular oiling or sealing to maintain color and durability.
Composite Decking
When searching for “what is the best material to build a deck?”, the very first answer you’ll find is composite decking materials. Made from a combination of plastic and wood fibers, composite offers the best of both worlds: durability and low maintenance, while still maintaining the same stunning look of wood.
It’s extremely popular in North Carolina thanks to its ability to withstand humidity and frequent weather fluctuations, as well as many other benefits that traditional wood decking can’t offer, such as:
Benefits
- Low Maintenance: Doesn’t require staining, sealing, or sanding.
- Weather-Resistant: Withstands humidity, heat, and rain without warping.
- Long Lifespan: Can last 20 to 30 years with minimal upkeep.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Often made from recycled materials.
Disadvantages
- Higher Upfront Cost: More expensive than wood.
- Heat Retention: Can get hot in direct sunlight, making it uncomfortable to walk on.
- Mold & Mildew Growth: Can occur in shaded, damp areas if not cleaned regularly.
PVC Decking
PVC is honestly one of the best materials for an outdoor deck if you’re seeking an option that resists rain, moisture, and heat. This synthetic alternative provides long-lasting durability, withstanding fading, staining, and mold growth, so it’s ideal for your outdoor project if you prefer the following advantages:
Benefits
- Waterproof: PVC decking materials are completely resistant to moisture, offering high performance in humid climates.
- Long Lifespan: Can last 30+ years with little maintenance.
- Lightweight: Easier to install than tropical hardwood or composite.
- Resistant to Fading & Staining: Retains its color longer than other materials
Disadvantages
- Expensive: Among the highest-priced decking materials.
- Artificial Appearance: Lacks the natural wood grain look.
- Prone to Expansion & Contraction: Can shift slightly with temperature changes.
Aluminum Decking
Aluminum doesn’t tend to be one of the main types of materials for deck building. But it’s a pioneering, high-performance option that has steadily gained popularity for its durability and weather resistance. It is an excellent choice for North Carolina homeowners looking for a long-lasting and low-maintenance solution.
Benefits
- Exceptional Durability: Highly resistant to rust, rot, and insect damage (and even fire!).
- Lightweight & Strong: Despite being lightweight, aluminum decking is incredibly strong and can support heavy loads.
- Low Maintenance: Does not require staining, sealing, or painting.
- Heat Reflective: Stays cooler than other materials in direct sunlight.
Disadvantages
- Higher Cost: It’s one of the most expensive decking materials.
- Metallic Appearance: Doesn’t provide the wood aesthetic some homeowners prefer.
- Noisy Underfoot: Produces a louder sound when walked on compared to wood or composite decking.
Hope Tree Service Boasts the Best Deck Building Materials for Your Project in Cary, NC!
Okay, to summarize: Choosing the best deck building materials for your home in North Carolina involves considering costs, durability (especially to humidity, extreme temperatures, and stormy weather), and design. Hope Tree Service can make the choice easier.
We are the premier deck builders in Cary, NC, and surrounding areas, with over 15 years of experience in the field. Schedule your appointment with us today so we can start working on your dream deck!