What Are The Cheapest Decking Materials

What Are The Cheapest Decking Materials

Table of Contents
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

    The decking materials you need will vary in price depending on a number of criteria, such as the type and quality of materials you choose, the location of your property, and the sort of lumberyard you make your purchase from. Similar to how the cost of gasoline is set by competition in the market, the price of decking is also subject to fluctuations in the industry.

    Treated wood is the most cost-effective option for decking. The price per linear foot for 5/4 by 6 ACQ treated decking purchased from a big box store is between $0.75 and $1.25. Finding the best condition boards will require digging through the bins.

    In general, higher-quality materials at a somewhat higher price and longer accessible lengths can be found in a local lumberyard where contractors are more likely to buy from. Lumber sold in a store catering to homes is typically of poorer quality. Pressure-treated wood is well recognised as a low-cost building material, making it a good option for those on a tight budget. There are instances, nevertheless, where the material proves to be particularly resilient. Pressure-treated wood can split, fracture, warp, and turn grey after only a few years, even if you maintain your deck with consistent staining. In the case of older decks, this is particularly true.

    Looking for home deck services? Look no further! Hitch Property Constructions has you covered.

    Decking made from cedar and redwood typically costs $1.25 to $2.00 per linear foot for 5/4x6 stock. Instead of being scarce like it is on the east coast, redwood is plentiful on the west. Costs will increase for better quality materials that can be cut to greater lengths.

    Due to the availability of well over a hundred distinct manufacturers, vinyl and composite decking may be found at a wide range of price points. Premium name-brand products typically cost $3.50 to $4.00 per linear foot. In contrast, the big box stores sell economy composite materials for a fraction of the price. Specialized screws or concealed fasteners are used in many composite decking systems, which can greatly increase the final price.

    Exotic hardwoods, such as Ipe, are sometimes the most expensive option when it comes to decking materials. Prices range from $4.00 to $5.00 for Ipe that is 3/4 inches wide by 6 inches long. Ipe is a type of hardwood that is normally ordered through specialised suppliers and is only available at high-end lumberyards. In most cases, working with exotic hardwoods will necessitate the installation of more expensive hidden side-mounted fastening clips, which adds significantly to the final price.

    Best Deck Material for Your House

    Many factors, including price and upkeep, should be weighed when settling on the decking material that will best suit your property. When building, wood was once about your only true option; now, however, there are many different options available. It's important to keep in mind, though, that not all of them are made of the same stuff.

    Pressure-Treated Wood

    Pressure-treated lumber is one of the cheapest decking materials on the market today, and it is used to build about 75% of all decks. Chemicals have been used to make it resistant to fungi and insects. Low-quality pine or fir is generally used in its construction, and this type of wood has a propensity to crack and warp with time, necessitating regular maintenance. Pressure-treated wood was once treated with chromated copper arsenate, a chemical now known to cause cancer in humans. The modern preservatives used in pressure-treated wood are less toxic and safer. Price per square foot might be anywhere from $1.50 to $2.50. Hitch Property Constructions has a wide range of decking services Melbourne services.

    Benefits: This is still the most common option, as it is used on over 75% of all newly built decks. The chemical treatment gives the wood a longer lifespan and increases its appeal to consumers. It's also affordable, with a price tag of around $1.50 to $2.00 per square foot. It's easy to get your hands on and you can find it just about anyplace.

    Cons: This type of decking material sometimes cracks or warps over time, making it difficult to maintain. The constant need for upkeep is a major drawback of this decking material. A chemical called chromated copper arsenate, which is now proven to cause cancer in humans, was once used to treat pressure-treated wood. However, it is now treated with less dangerous chemicals, making it safer for domestic usage.

    Tropical hardwood

    The best option is tropical hardwoods because they can live for up to 50 years with regular care. Since Ipe is so dense, a penetrating sealer made for tropical decking boards with an oil base is recommended. Doing so will allow the finish to permeate the wood thoroughly. Before making a purchase, verify that your tropical hardwood decking planks are sourced from legitimate businesses who share your commitment to sustainable forest management.

    Accessible tropical hardwoods include a wide variety of species, including Ipe, Cumaru, and Tigerwood. Many more exist. The gritty texture, extreme durability, and inherent resistance to decay and insects of tropical hardwoods make them the quintessential high-end material. Because of all of these qualities, tropical hardwoods are highly recommended.

    They are fairly expensive (about $8 to $12 per square foot), and like to redwood and cedar, they are rather dense, making it challenging to drill holes into them. They are also similar to pine in appearance, making them challenging to work with. In addition, stains and finishes do not adhere well to them; if you insist on using one, be sure it is designed for tropical hardwood.

    When working with them, expect challenges. You won't have much luck applying stains or finishes to them. If you don't want to stain the deck, at least give it a clear UV-blocking wood preservative every three or four years. The wood will be shielded from the sun's UV rays as a result. This is due to the fact that, like cedar and redwood, tropical hardwoods will age to a silvery colour if they are not stained, and this holds true even for brand new wood. Know where your tropical hardwood came from and look for labels that say the company practises sustainable harvesting. Knowing where your tropical hardwood came from is also crucial.

    Redwood

    Redwood, which has many characteristics with cedar, has long been the wood of choice for decks made entirely of natural materials. Redwood decking is more commonly found in the western United States and is therefore harder to come by in the east. Redwood decking is more accessible in the West. Redwood is more expensive than cedar because it is in higher demand, especially in the select and clear grades. Per square foot costs range from $6 to $8.

    Redwood is another great natural choice that shares many similarities with cedar wood (including those listed above). The beautiful colour, light but sturdy finish, and natural tannins make up these characteristics. But redwood isn't as widely available as other types of timber, especially in the East. (This is one of the reasons why it is more expensive than cedar: $6 to $8 per square foot.)

    Cons: Redwood and cedar both require regular power washing and a coat of stain or varnish every three to four years. In addition, once a year you'll want to give both types of wood a good power washing. Even though you won't have to exert much effort to keep up with this maintenance regimen, you shouldn't forget about it for fear of dire consequences.

    Composites

    One of the most well-liked and fast growing trends in decking right now is the installation of composite decking, which is often composed from wood fibres and recycled plastics. Pros: Recycled plastic and wood fibres form the bulk of composite decking materials. They won't rot or attract insects as natural wood does, and they won't get brittle like plastic does because they're built in a lab. Furthermore, they will not get brittle or bend over time. Due to the way they are constructed, they can last for a very long time with relatively little care on the owner's part.

    Since many composites are made from wood fibres, some of them may decay over time if they are exposed to dampness. They, on the other hand, require zero upkeep. Prices range from about $7 to $10 per square foot, depending on the firm you hire, so it's important to do your research to find the most trustworthy provider possible.

    Bluestone

    Bluestone's natural beauty, depth of colour, and ability to blend into more classic structures are all major selling points. It's also a fantastic nonslip surface when wet, making it an excellent choice for damp climates or pools in the backyard.

    ConsIt can get quite hot when the sun is pounding down on it, making it uncomfortable to the touch; travertine is a cooler stone that can be used instead. According to ImproveNet.com, the average cost per square foot is between $4 and $8.

    Cedar

    If you want natural wood goods, cedar is a good choice. Because of its widespread availability, low weight, and high strength, cedar decking is a great material for constructing decks. Though the wood's inherent tannins and oils make it resistant to rot and insects, it must still be protected with stain and sealer to prevent cracking and splintering. Both cedar and redwood, if not treated, will fade to a light grey over time. Prices per square foot start at $3.75 and go up to $5.

    Most purists favour cedar or redwood decks due to the woods' beautiful, rich colour. The natural colour of cedar wood is stunning, and it's widely available across the country. Lightweight and durable, it is well suited for use in hot or cold, dry or wet, arid or humid climates. Natural tannins and oils in the wood make it resistant to rot and insects, and additional protection from the elements can be added by staining and sealing the wood. The cedar in your home will gradually turn a pale grey shade if you don't treat it with a sealant or other protective substance.

    One major drawback is the price, which typically runs between $3.75 and $5 per square foot. As an additional note, not all cedar is created equal: When possible, you should go for decking manufactured from architect clear, custom clear, architect knotty, or custom knotty cedar (listed from clearest to most knotty). As a result, the higher quality you provide justifies a higher asking price.

    Grass

    There are many positive aspects of transforming your deck into a grassy lawn, including the following: modern, natural, calm, and colourful. Also, if you seed it, the installation cost is far lower than that of other solutions (just 8-30 cents per square foot!).

    Sunlight is essential for grass's growth, so keep that in mind. In addition, the splashes from a saltwater pool could potentially leave brown patches on the surface if you use it as a decking material surrounding the pool.

    Aluminium

    Prefinished aluminium decking can withstand the elements and is impenetrable to rust, insects, and deterioration. Deck "boards" are built from a lightweight material that is easily cut with specialised saw blades. The final side of the extruded aluminium planks is coated with a thick, slip-resistant coating that comes in a number of colours and never needs to be reapplied. Specialized fasteners will be required to securely fasten your decking to the deck's substructure. Between $6 and $8 per square foot is what you can expect to pay.

    While you may have never encountered one, decks made of aluminium actually exist. You won't have to worry about them rusting, warping, splintering, rotting, cracking, checking, or even being damaged by mould or the elements. There are a lot of ways in which they are helpful and convenient. They require little maintenance because they resist peeling and blistering under typical conditions and insects. Additionally, aluminium decking is two to three times as sturdy as wood, composite, or plastic lumber, while it weighs only one-fourth as much. Your mind will be put at ease, and you'll be more likely to go ahead and buy aluminium decking.

    The most expensive material is aluminium, which can cost upwards of $11 per square foot from some suppliers. Aluminium is the most expensive choice, which is a drawback given that nice things do not come cheap. It also lacks the wonderful colour of oak, so you'll need to weigh how much of an aesthetic hit you can take in exchange for its practicality.

    What Are The Cheapest Decking Materials 2

    Step-By-Step Guide to Building a Deck

    A deck can be transformed into an attractive area for hosting gatherings or simply relaxing. Any house would benefit greatly from having one, and the added value may be substantial. With the help of this comprehensive guide, which explains each procedure in depth, you will have the skills to build a deck. Check out our Melbourne decking services services here.

    Step 1: Request permission from your local council

    A building permit is necessary in Australia for any major renovations or additions to a residence. Therefore, you should approach the local government and get approval for the project before to making any preparations.

    Step 2: Begin the planning

    There is a vast range of deck styles, materials, and construction methods to choose from, so it's important to do some research and planning before getting started. Decks can be joined to or separated from a garage, built over an existing roof, have many levels, or be of all shapes and sizes. Since there is a great deal of leeway in the choices you can make, it's useful to discuss your individual tastes. In order to help you budget for the project, it is suggested that you look at current market rates.

    Step 3: Decide on the materials

    Decking can be built from numerous timbers, each of which has its own benefits. Before deciding on a deck material, it's wise to do some research and talk to a hardwood specialist for advice.

    Step 4: Get all the right tools and supplies for the project

    Many different kinds of equipment and materials are needed to do this task. In order to ensure a seamless project execution, it is recommended to start gathering these resources before beginning the project.

    Step 5: Measure and mark out your deck

    Now that the deck's foundation has been laid, we can start measuring and marking the space. Taking precise measurements at each location, including the distance between the joists and the deck's height, is essential for this task. Using the sills, the deck's limits can be marked. When you have finished driving the sills into the ground, you may use string cord to keep the height in place all the way around the perimeter.

    Step 6: Install the stumps and bearers

    Before putting in the stumps and bearers, you should use spray paint to make a rough outline of the digging holes were the sills were. Once the spray paint has been used to mark the holes, you can begin digging, taking care to maintain the exact depth that was decided upon. It's highly advised that you consult with an inspector before starting to patch in the gaps. The next stage is to set up the bearers and the stumps.

    Step 7:  Install the joists

    The joists can't go up until the wall plate has been measured and marked out. The wall plate must be fastened in place before the joist can be installed. To verify the accuracy of your measurements, compare the first joist's length to that of the second joist. Doing so is a safety precaution.

    Step 8: Lay the decking

    As tedious as the rest of the work may be, laying the decking will be a highlight. Prior to laying, you need cut down your lumber to size. When you're done, you'll need to put each timber slab down individually and drill it into place to keep it in place. Continuing your current strategy will yield full deck status in no time!

    Step 9: Enjoy your new deck!

    Finally, after all that effort, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your deck.

    Conclusion

    Cedar and redwood cost from $1.25 to $2.00 per linear foot for 5/4x6 stock when used to make decking. It's common knowledge that pressure-treated wood is an inexpensive construction material. More money will need to be spent on higher grade materials because they can be shortened to longer lengths. Ipe and other exotic hardwoods can be very costly. One of the most affordable decking options available is pressure-treated timber.

    When deciding on the ideal deck for your home, you need take a number of things into account, such as cost and maintenance. Many types of tropical hardwoods, such as Ipe, Cumaru, and Tigerwood, are easily accessible. Make sure the companies selling tropical hardwood decking planks are legitimate before you buy from them. Redwood is similar to cedar in many ways, but it is more costly and difficult to deal with. Similarly, redwood is another wonderful natural option that is very comparable to cedar.

    Both need to be power washed regularly and stained or varnished every three to four years. In contrast, composites don't deteriorate over time and need virtually little maintenance. The lovely, deep colour of cedar and redwood decks is prefered by most purists. The wood is naturally resistant to decay and insects thanks to the presence of tannins and oils, but it is still important to preserve it with stain and sealer. The lowest price per square foot is $3.75, and the highest is $5.

    Aluminum decking that has already been prefinished is very resistant to rust, insects, and degradation. The "boards" that make up a deck can be sliced through with relative ease using a circular saw fitted with a carbide blade. Aluminum, the priciest option, can cost more than eleven dollars per square foot from some vendors. Numerous options exist for deck designs, materials, and building techniques. Before beginning work, it is important to determine which materials and equipment will be needed.

    Before constructing the foundation, carefully measure and mark down your deck's dimensions to guarantee a smooth build. Before laying the decking, you'll need to cut the lumber to size. Once the wall plate has been measured and marked, only then can the joists be installed. The joist cannot be fitted until the wall plate is in place and securely fixed. Now that you've finished fixing up your deck, sit back and take it easy!

    Content Summary

    • The decking materials you need will vary in price depending on a number of criteria, such as the type and quality of materials you choose, the location of your property, and the sort of lumberyard you make your purchase from.
    • Treated wood is the most cost-effective option for decking.
    • Costs will increase for better quality materials that can be cut to greater lengths.
    • Many factors, including price and upkeep, should be weighed when settling on the decking material that will best suit your property.
    • The modern preservatives used in pressure-treated wood are less toxic and safer.
    • Recycled plastic and wood fibres form the bulk of composite decking materials.
    • If you want natural wood goods, cedar is a good choice.
    • Because of its widespread availability, low weight, and high strength, cedar decking is a great material for constructing decks.
    • Specialized fasteners will be required to securely fasten your decking to the deck's substructure.
    • A deck can be transformed into an attractive area for hosting gatherings or simply relaxing.
    • Before deciding on a deck material, it's wise to do some research and talk to a hardwood specialist for advice.
    • Many different kinds of equipment and materials are needed to do this task.
    • Now that the deck's foundation has been laid, we can start measuring and marking the space.
    • When you have finished driving the sills into the ground, you may use string cord to keep the height in place all the way around the perimeter.
    • Before putting in the stumps and bearers, you should use spray paint to make a rough outline of the digging holes were the sills were.
    • The wall plate must be fastened in place before the joist can be installed.
    • As tedious as the rest of the work may be, laying the decking will be a highlight.

    FAQs About Building decks

    Composite and PVC decking are popular because they're virtually maintenance free. Both types are extremely weather-resistant, easy to clean, and neither will ever splinter, warp, cup, or rot. And they don't require sanding or staining.

    Aluminum and Steel

    Aluminum decking is the most expensive out of the deck material and will last the longest with a lifespan of 30+ years. Steel decking can have a lifespan of 60+ years when correctly installed by a professional builder.

    There is no doubt that composite decking material is more expensive than wood. However, it is valued for its striking resemblance to natural wood and efficiency making it an excellent choice for decking. It is easier to clean and maintain which makes it last long enough to transfer the same value to the next homeowner.

    If you're on a budget and the price tag of a composite deck is just too much, then a wooden deck is a great alternative. The lowest cost per square foot for a pressure treated pine deck sells for about half the price of composite, $25 versus $30 installation, respectively.

    Traditional wood deck: Typically 10 to 15 years. Capped composite: Industry experts agree these boards can last 25 to 30+ years. Capped polymer (the best of the best): Because of its superior material composition, capped polymer boards can last much longer, potentially 50 years or more.

    Google Rating
    5.0
    Based on 12 reviews
    js_loader
    Scroll to Top