Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Decks

What is the most popular decking material in the Bay Area?
In this video, we answer some of the most common questions about outdoor decks, including:
What is the most popular decking material in the Bay Area?
What's the difference between decking hardwood vs. softwood?
Which wood type is the most durable for decking?
How can one determine if deck lumber is of high quality?
Which has a longer lifespan: Trex or real wood?
What are the disadvantages of Trex decking?
What's the most expensive decking material?
What's the typical lifespan of a wood deck?
Which type of wood deck has the longest lifespan?
How often should wood decking be replaced?
How large should my wood deck be?
What expenses are associated with maintaining a wood deck?
How much value does an outdoor deck add to a home's worth?
Popular Decking Materials in the Bay Area
Redwood is the most popular decking material in the Bay Area, known for its natural beauty, durability, and resistance to pests and decay. Other popular options include cedar, ipe, and Mangaris Red Balau.
Decking Hardwood vs. Softwood
Decking hardwood is typically denser and more durable than softwood, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas. Softwood is less expensive and easier to work with, but it may require more frequent maintenance.
Most Durable Wood Type for Decking
Ipe and Mangaris Red Balau are the most durable wood types for decking, known for their exceptional hardness and resistance to wear and tear.
Determining High-Quality Deck Lumber
When choosing deck lumber, look for straight, even-grained boards with minimal defects. Avoid boards that are split, warped, or have signs of rot or decay.
Trex vs. Real Wood Decking
Trex is a composite decking material made from a combination of wood fiber and plastic. It is more durable and easier to maintain than wood, but it can be more expensive and may not have the same aesthetic appeal as real wood.
Disadvantages of Trex Decking
Trex decking can be more expensive than wood decking, and it can be prone to scratching and fading over time. It can also become hot to the touch in direct sunlight.
Most Expensive Decking Material
Exotic hardwoods like ipe and Mangaris Red Balau are the most expensive decking materials, followed by redwood. Cedar and hem-fir are more affordable options.
Typical Lifespan of a Wood Deck
Most softwood decks last between 10 and 25 years, while hardwoods can last up to 75 years. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of a deck, while exposure to harsh weather can reduce it.
Wood Deck with the Longest Lifespan
Ipe and Mangaris Red Balau decks have the longest lifespan, lasting up to 75 years or more.
How Often to Replace Wood Decking
Softwood decking typically needs to be replaced every 10 to 25 years, depending on the wood species, lumber quality, maintenance level, and frequency of use.
How Large to Make a Wood Deck
The ideal deck size depends on the dimensions of your yard. A general guideline suggests that your deck should occupy no more than 20% of your home's square footage.
Expenses Associated with Maintaining a Wood Deck
In addition to the installation costs, you'll need to budget for regular cleaning, sanding, staining, sealing, and potential repairs and replacements.
Value Added to a Home by an Outdoor Deck
According to a study conducted in 2017, a wood deck can increase a home's value by an average of $10,000. The actual profit you gain upon selling your home, however, largely depends on the initial cost of installing the outdoor deck and the maintenance it received over the years.
Conclusion
Choosing the right decking material for your needs and budget is an important decision. We recommend weighing the pros and cons of each option carefully before making a final choice. If you have any questions or need help deciding, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Visit Redeemed Flooring today for the best prices on decking materials and installation services. We offer a wide selection of exotic hardwoods, redwood, and cedar, as well as Trex composite decking. Our experienced professionals can help you design and build the perfect deck for your needs and budget. Contact us today for a free consultation!
Redeemed Hardwood Flooring & Decking offers factory direct savings at the lowest price, guaranteed.
Factory direct? What does it mean? It means, WE CUT THE MIDDLEMAN! …And pass along the savings to you! We have up to 40% OFF retailer pricing, because we’re factory direct.
Visit our store in Concord at:
2231 Commerce Ave, Suite J
Concord CA 94520
Call or Text: 800-WOOD-015
www.redeemedflooring.com
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