Take a deep dive with me into the world of low maintenance decking as we explore the ins and outs of which deck bord is best suited for a wide array of unique applications!
Now that you have decided to go with a low maintenance material for your outdoor living space, it is time to discuss the different options out in the market today, and there are many! I like to use a three-tier grading system to break them down.
Here we find the most budget friendly options in low maintenance decking. These are the types of deck boards you find on big box store shelves. DIYers and ambitious weekend warriors looking to re-vamp their outdoor living space go for these deck boards.
One important detail to note is the use of a thin protective cap you can see around three or sometimes four sides of the deck board, depending on the manufacturer. This cap is a polyethylene plastic that seals and protects the wood fibers used in composite decking. Those wood fibers can absorb moisture, leading to splitting and cupping over time. Utilize a pro grade material for your projects that are exposed to a high level of moisture!
This is the next step up from an entry level low maintenance deck board. Here are some next level benefits with an intermediate level decking!
In tier #2, you will find a wider variety of color options and wood grain patterns. Because of this, you enjoy benefits such as more colors, realistic wood looks, and up to 30 year product warranties! The particle makeup of the board is similar to tier #1 so the same cautions against moist environments still apply.
Boasting the longest product warranty out of all, as well as being on the cutting edge of decking technology, any board in this category is guaranteed to satisfy your vision of the perfect outdoor oasis. Personally, I feel the most peace of mind building with these materials knowing they will last the test of time and age with beauty.
PVC decking from brands such as Azek is made with a synthetic plastic called polyvinyl chloride. It differs from composite decking in that there are no organic materials such as wood fibers used in the manufacturing process. It is much more durable and will not absorb as much heat as composite material will, keeping it cooler to the touch.
Not all low maintenance decking materials are created equal. Understanding these differences is crucial to the success of your outdoor living project. With just a couple minutes of research, you can take your project to a whole new level of customization tailored to fit your needs!
