What is the Best Building Material for a 365-Day Deck

Canada is well known for its climate which at best gets cold and rainy on the coast while frequently getting a great deal of snow and hitting the -20s on a regular basis in the interior. This is why it is important to consider material choice when building a deck in Canada.

Probably the most common and enduring materials for decks in Canada is pressure-treated wood. Usually made from Pine, pressure treated wood has been subjected to a process to render it resistant to water, insects, and fungal decay. It is one of the cheapest materials extensively used for deck construction and is widely available. However, pressure-treated wood can require quite a bit of maintenance, needing sanding, re-staining and resealing every two to five years to maintain its integrity.

Another natural option is Cedar or Redwood, natural woods that possess their own inherent moisture- and insect-resistant properties. Though this natural resistance is not all powerful and cedar, by far the more common of the two, requires annual power washing and treating with a wood preservative to maintain its color and integrity.

If you do not feel the need for a natural wood, composite materials are a low-maintenance option that looks great and will last a long time. It is a highly moisture-resistant material. Composite decks also do not retain heat and will not warp in the sun. The only downside is that they are more vulnerable to moisture than PVC or Aluminum and have a higher price point than pressure-treated lumber. We like composite decking and work with several types.

These decks look great for a long time and fast and easy to install. The material machines well, and there are no surprises.

Full PVC decks are virtually maintenance free, easy to clean and highly scratch resistant. Unfortunately, they are also vulnerable to extremely cold temperatures and can become brittle and crack. Aluminum decking is light and strong but can be extremely expensive and will get quite cold to the touch in colder climates. However most Aluminum Decks have a lifetime warranty, so you have peace of mind for any damage that might occur.

Hopefully, we have given you some insight on what to select for a year-round deck. If you’d like more information on decking materials and what options will work best for your home and needs, feel free to contact our friendly and knowledgeable staff at Deck Experts.

Deck Experts, based in Surrey, BC, are professional deck builders with a long track record of success. We offer free estimates and long warranties and can build or fix any deck around. If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about decks, please call us at (604) 626-7100.