Material is a critical consideration in determining a deck’s durability. While some decking components can easily last over half a century, others will hardly survive two decades without requiring an overhaul.
Many Overland Park homeowners struggle to select decking materials that balance durability with aesthetic appeal. But with professional assistance, you can quickly find something that checks both boxes.
This post explores some of the most popular decking materials and the average deck lifespan based on the options you go for.
Why Does Understanding Decking Durability Matter?
Many Overland Park homeowners typically don’t pay keen attention to their deck’s lifespan. This may lead to neglect, eventually prompting costly repairs.
Experts highly recommend understanding how long a deck will last before constructing these structures. That knowledge might help in;
1. Choosing the Right Decking Material
When it comes to decking materials, the options are virtually limitless. Each component comes with standout features, with many defined by their average longevity.
Knowing how long a decking material will last can help you find the right option for your property. It’s particularly important if you’re considering selling your home at some point in the future.
Like most structures, your deck’s condition can be a key determinant of your property’s resale value.
Choosing proper decking material also helps with long-term planning. If you know you won’t replace your decking for the next twenty years, you can channel resources to other home improvements in the meantime.
2. Estimating Initial Purchase Price
A product’s durability is typically proportional to its price. This commerce principle applies to decking materials, too.
Obviously, you’d expect to pay a premium for decking components with a 50-year lifespan compared to those rated for 10 years.
Having these insights can prevent you from splurging on substandard materials or paying suspiciously low prices for decking components. Besides, it lets you compare rates among different suppliers better informed.
But perhaps we should mention that durability alone doesn’t impact the price of decking materials. There are usually many other elements to consider, including aesthetics and the ease of installation.
3. Crafting a Maintenance Plan
All decking materials need regular maintenance to keep them in crisp condition. Now, durability typically corresponds with a material’s sheer strength and its weather resistance capabilities.
Decking components made from metal or hardwood tend to last considerably longer due to their superior robustness. Similarly, moisture-treated materials can offer all-season protection from the harsh outdoor weather, making them more durable.
Understanding these dynamics is key when crafting a decking maintenance plan. Stronger decking materials may withstand heavy foot traffic for years before requiring significant repairs. Meanwhile, weather-resistant components will need less frequent cleaning than untreated materials.
Exploring the Durability of Different Decking Materials
1. Pressure-treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is a common decking component most beloved for its affordability.
As the name implies, this material undergoes an extensive chemical process to improve its longevity and weather resilience. It resists rotting, decay, and pest infestation remarkably well.
The average pressure-treated wood lifespan is 15 – 20 years.
However, note that this material requires ongoing maintenance to extend its longevity. It’s notably prone to staining and ultraviolet (UV) damage.
To address staining on your pressure-treated decking, consider cleaning the surface at least twice monthly. Regular sealing will help minimize damage by UV rays and other environmental factors.
2. Cedar Wood
Cedar is one of the most beautiful softwoods. But it’s also incredibly durable, making it a top decking material.
Cedar is naturally moisture-resistant. The material can resist rotting, preserving your deck’s aesthetic appeal for years.
You’ll also love cedar for its pleasant aromas. Besides, the tree’s natural oils provide a barrier against moisture and dirt.
But to fully understand cedar decking’s suitability for your home, determine if you can keep up with the required maintenance schedule. Clean, seal, and stain the material regularly.
With proper care, cedar decking options may last 20 – 25 years.
3. Redwood
Like cedar, redwood possesses natural beauty and exceptional moisture resistance. The material also secretes natural oils that serve as insect repellents.
Redwood’s reddish-brown color can imbue a dash of elegance into your home. It’s one of the few decking components that blend durability with aesthetic appeal.
If you’re seeking to transform your backyard into a magical outdoor space, insist on a wood deck made from the beautiful redwood.
Redwood decking can last 25 – 30 years. Perhaps longer with proper maintenance.
4. Tropical Hardwoods
Where softwoods are hard to come by, you can always choose hardwoods as an alternative deck material options.
Hardwoods are high-density, making them super strong and durable. They can resist moisture ingress, rotting, and insect infestation.
Decking constructed from ultratreated hardwood components offers an additional layer of toughness. These materials resist scratching and mild chemical burns, making them a top choice for creative deck makeover ideas.
Most tropical hardwoods will last 30 – 50 years.
While the materials are relatively costly, their longevity makes them a worthy long-term investment. The fact that hardwoods require minimal maintenance makes them all the more desirable.
5. Composite Decking
Composites are synthetic blends of wood and plastic. These decking materials appeal for their relative affordability.
Composites are also low-maintenance, making them desirable for busy homeowners. The materials are also customizable and can easily take on a natural wood appearance.
In terms of durability, composite deck flooring options can last 25 – 30 years. You can extend your composite decking lifespan by keeping heavy equipment off its surface.
6. PVC
PVC’s durability consists of its superior molecular strength. Decking constructed from this material can resist scratching and weather damage.
Studies have also shown that PVC components can withstand various chemicals, including acids and bases.
PVC decking is low-maintenance too, often requiring occasional wipe-downs to keep it squeaky clean. With moderate care, these decks can easily last 50 years.
Extending the Durability of Your Decking With Regular Maintenance
Choosing a robust decking material isn’t all it takes to extend your deck’s lifespan. Maintenance is equally significant.
Fortunately, many decking components are engineered to be remarkably weather-resistant. This minimizes the frequency of cleaning and repairs, maximizing a deck’s lifespan.
A critical maintenance procedure you can undertake on your own is regular sweeping.
Sweep your decking at least monthly to eliminate debris, including rocks, soil, and yard vegetation. Besides, spot clean spills immediately to keep stains off the surface.
Use mild detergents and water. Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals, as these may only damage your decking surface.
Remember to also conduct thorough cleaning annually.
As for repairs, those are best left to professionals. Contact a reputable decking company in Overland Park as soon as you spot damaged boards, warping, or loose guard rails.