Now that you have decided you want to add a custom deck to your home, your next choice will be the materials used to build your deck. Deck and Fence offer both composite and wood deck-building services.

As a custom deck builder in the Chicagoland area, we have found that many prefer composite decks to wooden decks. However, we encourage all of our clients to look at the benefits and drawbacks of each type of system before making their final decision.

Composite Decks

Benefits of Composite Decks

* Composite material is more durable than wood
* Composite deck plans are available in a variety of colors, including wood grain
* This material will not splinter or suffer wood rot
* Composite material is not susceptible to wood-destroying organisms
* Composite material requires significantly less maintenance
* All composite materials that we use are made from recycled materials

Drawbacks of Composite Materials

* Higher initial cost for building the deck
* Composite decking is warmer to walk on than wood decking in summer

Composite decks offer the homeowner many advantages, especially regarding maintenance. Unlike wood decks requiring yearly cleaning and painting, a composite deck can be easily cleaned with a soft brush, soap, and water.

Composite decks are made from recycled materials, making them very environmentally friendly. If this concerns the homeowner, they will be happy to know that some of the materials used by Deck and Fence are 100 percent made from recycled materials.

Composite decking also withstands rain, snow, and ice much better than wood. You do not have to worry about water and ice getting into the deck planks, causing them to splinter or crack. These planks are moisture-resistant.

The installation of a composite deck is higher than that of a wooden deck. However, the yearly maintenance costs are so low that the cost evens out quickly with wooden decks.

Wood Decks

Benefits of Wood Decks

* Wood decking is very beautiful and will match any home
* Wood is easy to work with and easy to customize
* Wood decking remains much cooler to walk on during the summer
* Wood decking can be stained or painted to match your exterior decor
* Wood decking has a lower installation cost than composite decking

Drawbacks of Wood Decks

* Wood decks require more maintenance each year than composite decking
* Wood decks suffer more damage from harsh weather conditions than composite decks

Wood decks have been popular for many years. Homeowners love the versatility of wood decks and the lowered costs for installation. Wood decks can match any exterior decor and can easily complement any other outdoor features.

Wood decks do not get hot during the summer, so going barefoot on your deck can always be an option. These decks can easily accommodate other features as well, making wood decking a great choice for enhanced outdoor entertainment areas.

Sadly, wood decks will require a lot of maintenance to keep them in good repair and look good. Weather conditions can fade wood, cause it to splinter or crack and loosen hardware. You must have an inspection on your wood deck each year to check for wood rot, loose hardware, and any board cracking.

Wood decks will also require deep cleaning and painting or staining each year to keep up the appearance. If you do not give your deck this type of attention, it will significantly reduce its lifespan.

Have Your Questions Answered by Deck and Fence Professional

If you have any questions about what type of deck would work best for your home, you are encouraged to speak with one of the reps at Deck and Fence. Our knowledgeable staff can help you make an informed decision on what type of deck material to use for your custom deck.