Types of Deck Materials for Any Budget

Just like most things, there’s a huge variety of deck materials in Kansas City, so it may be hard to get through the plethora of choices.

No fear. Our deck experts at York Companies have got your covered. Keep reading for more information on types of deck materials to fit any budget. 

 

Pressure-treated wood: $

Pressure-treated (PT) wood is the most budget-friendly option (and the most popular). It’s available practically anywhere and is made from southern yellow pine. PT wood is chemically treated to steer away pests, rotting, and fungus. 

 

Pros:

• Affordable
• Easy to work with
• Stains and waterproofs easily

 

Cons:

• Tends to crack, split, and mold
• Requires annual power washing
• Must stain or apply a wood preservative every 2 to 3 years

Composite: $$

Composite lumber consists of a mix of wood and plastic (usually polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride). Because of this, composite offers a variety of color choices so that you can customize it to your home. 

 

Pros:

• Won’t splinter, crack, or rot
• Low maintenance
• Weather resistant

 

Cons:

• Can look like “fake wood”
• Scuffs and scratches easily
• Mold and mildew may grow in shady, damp areas

Polyvinyl chloride: $$

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the newest types of deck materials that are quickly gaining popularity. They are 100% manmade, meaning they aren’t made of wood at all. Different color options may include white, gray, brown, and tan. 

 

Pros: 

• Very close to being a maintenance-free option
• Doesn’t require sanding, staining, or painting
• Extremely moisture resistant

 

Cons:

• May not look like wood
• Hard to repair
• Boards may squeak

Cedar or redwood: $$-$$$

Many deck enthusiasts love the deep, rich color of cedar and redwood. Unlike PT wood, these woods aren’t full of chemicals or other preservatives. They contain natural oils and tannins that keep them resistant to rotting, pests, and decay. 

 

Pros:

• Looks nice even without staining
• Naturally resistant to insects
• Void of dangerous chemicals

 

Cons:

• Requires yearly power washing
• Weather resistance is dependent on where the wood was cut (the outer part of the tree is softer)
• Not available everywhere, especially redwood

Tropical hardwood: $$$

Tropical hardwoods include cumaru, ipe, massaranduba, and more. Since they’re rich-grained woods, tropical hardwoods are hard and very strong. They’re also naturally resistant to rotting and insects. 

 

Pros:

• Long lasting
• Offers a genuine, high-quality wood appearance
• Weathers to a nice, dull gray

 

Cons:

• Difficult to cut and drill for installation
• Doesn’t accept stains well
• Expensive

Get started with York Companies

If you’re looking to build a deck in Kansas City, York Companies has the expertise to help you build the deck of your dreams! We work with different types of deck materials, meaning we can handle whatever option you choose.

 

Already have a deck? Our contractors can help with any repairs you may need or expand your deck to upgrade your home. 

 

Get a free quote today.