Are you thinking of building a deck on your home?

Building a deck on your home is most people’s dreams because it is the perfect way to add an extended living space and value to your home. Although, cost and inexperience can be major factors for delaying the build. We have put together a list of decking options and their benefits.

Softwood decking

Softwood decking is the most popular material that homeowners prefer for many reasons. It’s got plenty of significant benefits, among these benefits is its low price. It is known for being the cheapest decking material on the market. But cheap doesn’t mean bad, softwood decking if properly maintained can last up to 25 years.

Another advantage is its easy installation process and workability, meaning gorgeous decks installed quickly for a low price.

Here are a number of options:

• Redwood
  • Redwood is a remarkable deck material in that it is very stable, straight and its heartwood is naturally resistant to wood boring insects and weathering without the use of preservative chemicals.

• Cedar
  • Cedar is a durable wood that is naturally resistant to rot, decay and insect attacks, and resists moisture absorption, so it tends to last longer, needs less maintenance, and doesn’t warp or split as easily.

• Pressure Treated Wood
  • This type of decking has a really long lifespan if cared for properly.

Hardwood Decking

Although Hardwood is usually the most expensive option, it is considered the most durable and long lasting. Hardwood decking requires less maintenance than softwood decking and can last up to 50 years – or longer if maintained regularly.

Here are a number of options:

• Spotted gum

• • Tough and well performing in the harsh Australian climate, loved by architects globally

• Grey Ironbark

• • This Australian hardwood is best suited for outdoor areas that are mostly protected from the harsh Australian elements

• Blackbutt

• • Blackbutt is a very fire resistant wood, and depending on the state you live in this might heavily influence you. Blackbutt is easy to work with and very durable, it doesn’t tend to warp or split

• Merbau

• • Merbau is an excellent performing hardwood and is perfectly suited to the Australian climate. If you’re after a red-coloured hardwood, merbau is the perfect option. One thing to mention whenever using merbau is to NEVER use it near light-coloured tiles or pavers, as the timber is one of the worst when it comes to leaching tannins.

• Ipe

• • Ipe is one of the hardest woods in the world which lends to its incredible durability and longevity. It is also naturally resistant to insect attack, mold, rot, fire and decay, perfect for the harshness of Australia

• Teak

• • Out of all the hardwoods on this list, teak is the best performing, but also the most expensive. It’s great to work with, holds nails and screws tight and will last up to 40 years.

Alternatives to wood

Alternative decking materials are the lowest maintenance option when looking for a decking solution. These alternatives are available in lots of different shades and textures as well as widths and sizes. The use of recycled materials and the ability to provide large numbers of set lengths might also appeal to you.

Composite Decking

Composite decking is a relatively new type of decking that is a material made from a mixture of wood and plastic. It has some great features such as waterproofing and stain resistance. Using composite decking will allow you to have the finish of real wood but without all of the hassle of maintaining it.

Vinyl

Vinyl is a durable material that can be used as a decking material for your home. It is tough and durable, meaning it can handle any type of weather conditions as well as having minimal upkeep needed to have it looking gorgeous all year round. Vinyl is versatile, being available in a large variety of colours and shades to create your own unique design for your home. Vinyl decking is a great alternative to wood as it can last for years and it’s very reasonably priced, meaning you can have a beautiful deck without an empty wallet.

Tiles

If you’re looking for a durable solution to your decking needs, tiles might be the way to go. While tiles may be expensive they are definitely worth their money in the long run. Tiles are the least prone material to denting, scuffing, and scratching unlike other softer materials used. Tiles can endure an endless punch from the harsh elements. Their ability to be waterproof means no mold or moss will appear and the harsh Australian sun won’t be able to ruin their beautiful colour. With so many outdoor tile colours, styles and shapes on the market, the only limit to your outdoor tile design is your imagination.

If you are looking for Construction Company in NSW to build deck on your home, then contact to Rice Group.