A deck is often the treasure of many homes – a place where friends and family gather to relax and enjoy quality time. While a properly-installed deck should last you a long time, its lifespan depends on many variables. It may also depend on the deck material, particularly composite and hardwood, which we’ll explore a bit further.
Wood decks
Natural wood is a popular choice of many homeowners, especially lumber and cedar. But redwood and hardwoods are also used in deck construction.
Many customers choose wood because of the initial cost savings during installation. Composite decks typically come with higher installation fees. But they need less maintenance in the long run. Wooden decks often need refinishing to keep their natural look.
Pressure-treated, weather-resistant wood such as cedar or redwood have a natural look and feel. They are less apt to warp or crack as other types of wood.
Composite decks
Common composite deck material includes PVC and vinyl. There are also those made with a mix of recycled plastic and wood fibers. A significant advantage of owning a composite deck is it requires less maintenance than a wood deck. As mentioned, you’ll never have to sand, refinish, or stain your deck.
Which material lasts longer?
A deck made of untreated wood can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years. Decks made of treated wood and composite materials can last as long as 50 years.
Many composite decks come with a 20-year warranty – and often a lifetime guarantee. A deck made of quality composite materials, such as TimberTech, comes with a 25-year fade and stain warranty. Moreover, TimberTech has a natural, hardwood style and requires little maintenance.
When to replace your deck
Knowing when to replace your deck comes down to its age, condition, and the frequency of repairs. An older deck naturally needs more maintenance – at least wooden decks, that is. The price of frequent repairs becomes less cost-effective over time.
In many cases, you can restain or paint a deck rather than replace it, depending on its age and overall condition. An older composite deck often shows its age by fading. Regular cleaning and washing of your composite deck will help it last a long time.
Give Straight Line Construction a call for all your deck needs, whether you need repair work or building a new deck.
