Lumber is the most affordable decking option.
The holiday season is past and spring is just around the corner; have you given much thought to improving your decking situation before the warmer weather arrives? There is nothing like escaping the stuffy confines of the indoors on a warm spring day to the spacious elbow room of a solid deck. If you are ready to improve that maintenance nightmare or build a completely new surface, here are the top five decking materials rated by price.
1. Pressure Treated Lumber. This is the most affordable decking option, and therefore, the one chosen the most often. Although affordable, the pressure-treated coating is not indestructible, and you will need to perform regular maintenance to keep your deck looking tip-top.
2. Redwood & Cedar. Redwoods and cedars are still preferred by many homeowners because of their natural beauty. They don't require as many chemicals to preserve their integrity as pressure treated lumber, but will still be vulnerable to the elements and insects. With proper stains and seals, however, you can enjoy the fresh scent of lumber on your deck for many years.
3. Composites. These are becoming one of the most popular decking options. Reasonably priced, these polyethylene or polychloride based boards consist mainly of recycled content. # *p>Read the full article in the CalFinder Remodeling and Home Solar Power Magazine
