Natural Wood is a classic option. Cedar, Tiger Wood, and Brazilian Ipe (iron wood) have beautiful natural colors. Cedar is a softwood, and therefore it is more resistant to pests and rot than other woods. Tiger Wood and Brazilian Ipe are hardwoods and so are more naturally resistant to decay, rot, and mold. Brazilian Ipe is about three times harder than Red Oak and as such can be used in thinner planks than other types of wood. However, all-natural woods should be sealed and regularly maintained.
Composite decks are a popular choice because they are low maintenance, easy to install, and look awesome. They don’t need to be painted or stained. An occasional deck cleaner and power wash will keep the deck looking great for years. While upfront costs are a little more, lower maintenance means a more economical deck over its lifetime.
Composite is available as full PVC, composite with PVC cap, and full composite. We use
TimberTech AZEK, which comes with a 50-year warranty, and other decking collections called TimberTech PRO and TimberTech EDGE. Deck planks are available in narrow, standard, and wide widths and a wide range of wood tones and grains and colors.
If the deck will be on the second story over a warm living area, we recommend the use of an
elastomeric membrane. Great care must be taken into account regarding perimeter flashing details from the deck up under the siding, drain pans through door openings, rain water sloping to scuppers and/or gutters, venting the underside of the deck to prevent condensation, and parapet wall cap details.
If adding a deck is on your home improvement list, give us a call. As a full contractor and handyman business, we at
Shirey Home Pro can help you weigh the pros and cons of all options, whether it’s work on an initial build or an ongoing maintenance job. We can help you calculate the cost to build your deck and the cost per year to maintain, so that you can make an informed decision that will be sustainable into the future.
Contact us today! 
