With so many options for deck building in Fort Collins, CO, it can be difficult to decide which material is best. Making the selection that is best for you will come down to figuring out which material is most compatible with your needs and circumstances. Here are a couple of things to consider when you are planning for your new deck.
Considering the climate
No matter which type of decking material you select, the climate of the area that you live in will play a huge factor in your deck’s longevity. Because your deck will be exposed to all types of elements every season, it is important to pay attention to the specific conditions that your deck will have to face year-round. Decks made with composite materials tend to absorb and hold onto heat at a higher rate, so it might be best to avoid these materials in excessively warm climates. In fact, if you live in an area that experiences scorching heat for any length of time during the year, a composite deck could become so warm that it becomes uncomfortable to stand on, barefoot or otherwise.
On the other hand, a lot of rain and snow annually will accelerate the weathering of a wood deck. Heavy exposure to water will continue to weaken the sealing on the wood over time, as well as increase the risk of moisture damage that could cause the wood to begin to rot. In this case, the stain-proof finish that is characteristic on composite wood decks would be a better choice than natural wood. With all of this in mind, knowing what kind of weather your deck will have to combat will help you to make the best decision about which type of decking material will hold up best.
Weighing cost and maintenance requirements
Because composite wood is made up of several different materials, the cost is substantially more than natural wood. Composite materials also aren’t as fundamentally strong as natural wood, so additional money will have to be spent to reinforce the structural soundness of these types of decks. But while the installation and materials for composite decks cost more than that of natural wood, wood decking might end up costing more in the long run due to the extensive maintenance that will be necessary to keep the wood in good condition. Composite decks do not require yearly re-staining and resealing, because the material is already stain and weather proof. Composite wood also does not possess the same vulnerability to rotting and splintering as natural wood, which means that less money will be spent on repairs during the life of the deck.
How you want your deck to look and hold up, along with an analysis of your specific climate, will help you make the decision about which material will be best for your deck building in Fort Collins, CO. If you find that you need additional help making this decision, or are ready to begin building your deck, contact the knowledgeable staff at TNT Home Improvements today for a free estimate.
