When building an outdoor deck, you have a lot of options when it comes to materials. The choice you make will affect how well your deck holds up in the elements, how easy it is to maintain, and of course, how attractive it looks. Different decking materials react differently to direct sunlight, changes in temperature, and frequent exposure to water. So, which one is the best? Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options.

Best Deck Material: What to Consider

Deck material can be built from an assortment of softwoods and hardwoods, ranging from ipe to mahogany to tigerwood. They’re generally more expensive than composite but offer a natural appearance that many people prefer. They also typically have a higher level of durability than softwoods, but they can still be susceptible to moisture damage.

One of the most common types of wooden decking is pressure-treated pine, which is available at almost every home improvement store in the country. This type of wood is chemically treated to withstand rot and pests, so it’s a popular option for decks. One downside is that it can fade, so you’ll need to stain it or paint it regularly.

Cedar is another durable, natural wood that’s commonly used to build decks. This type of wood is also more weather-resistant than redwood, but it has a softer surface and may scratch or dent more easily. Cedar also takes stains and paints well, so you can get creative with your deck’s look.