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Which Deck Material Is Best?

When considering a new deck installation in Columbus, the things on your mind are most likely “how much will my new deck cost?” or “who should I invite over for my first cookout?” But once you start speaking with a contractor, you’ll notice something more immediately pressing: there are a lot of options to choose from when picking your new deck!

Among the factors involved, which material you choose for your deck may be the most important to the durability and longevity of your deck. Wondering which deck material is best? Follow along while the pros at APCO break down the basics.

Why Is Deck Material Important?

Beyond pure aesthetic differences, which are worth consideration all their own, the material you choose will impact literally every other factor involved. Picking the “best” material really means picking the best for your needs and situation. Materials vary in a range of ways, including:

  • Cost
  • Longevity
  • Resistance to weather
  • Resistance to pests
  • Maintenance needs
  • And more

Types of Deck Material

Wood Decking

Wood is timeless and still one of the most popular options for home decking in Columbus and the surrounding areas. It is relatively easy on your budget, depending on the wood you choose, and stands up well over extended periods of time. Wood’s largest failings lie in overall resistance and durability. While wood can resist pests and weather, it requires coating and re-coating to maintain these benefits. Because of this, wood is the highest maintenance material option.

On the plus side, however, exotic woods like teak can provide a great custom look with some added perks—though the cost for these materials is a bit higher!

Composite Decking

Composite decks are a mixture of wood fiber and recycled plastics. The goal is to create a decking material that looks just like a wood deck but mitigates or removes the drawbacks that standard wood decking brings to the table. Composite decks are nearly impervious to rot, they can stand up to tons of wear and use while looking great, and they are low-maintenance, needing little more than a broom or a hose from time to time to keep looking their best.

The one drawback of composite decking lies in the price, which is typically about 50% higher than wood decking. With that said, composite decks are rated to last 30 years or more—easily double or triple the lifespan of traditional wood.

Pressure-Treated Wood Decking

Pressure-treated wood decks have been treated with chemical preservatives. While a bit higher in cost than untreated wood, pressure-treated decks come in nearly all of the same versatile options and provide great protection against rot and pest intrusion. Overall, pressure-treated wood is considered a safe go-to for many homeowners.

The Experts at APCO Suggest Composite Decking

While the initial investment may give some homeowners pause, our team often suggests composite wood decking for homeowners looking for the “best” deck material. The overall benefits—strength, weather- and pest-resistance, longevity, and low-maintenance—make it the best value overall and over time. As an added bonus, composite decks are splinter-free!

Interested in custom composite decking in the Columbus, Ohio area? Connect with APCO online, or dial 614-254-5489!



* A minimum purchase is required. The discount applies to the retail list price and is not available on all products. Valid for a limited time and only for homeowner replacement customers who purchase APCO products for their residence and have them installed by APCO via the same contract. Not valid with any other offer or promotion. Repairs/handyman service, repairs to existing products including parts, and James Hardie and Mavin products excluded. Prior sales excluded. Other restrictions may apply. Loans provided by GreenSky (1797 Northeast Expressway NE Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30329) on approved credit, repayment terms vary from 24 to 132 months. 16.93% fixed APR, effective as of July 1st, 2014, subject to change. Interest is billed during the promotional period, but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid in full within 12 months. There are no required minimum monthly payments during the promotional period.
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