Home Improvement: How to Choose the Best Decking Material

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One of the most popular home improvement projects that many Australians love to invest in is the construction of decks because they improve your outdoor living space, adding value and functionality to your home through fun activities in the Australian harsh weather conditions. The first consideration when designing and constructing a new deck for your home is the type of material for your deck.

Here, we will discuss how to select the right type of deck and the right contractor to build a new deck for your home. If you want to have the best decking in Melbourne, being familiar with your options will assist you in getting the best deck with the highest durability and appearance.

Timber Decking

Timber is fast becoming one of the most requested decking materials because of its natural, warm appeal to different architectural designs—contemporary architecture and classic Szekler architecture alike. Some of the most commonly and preferred hardwood timbers include Merbau, Spotted Gum, and Jarrah, all native to Australia. These timbers are highly durable and can easily withstand almost all forms of weathering.

If you wish to achieve that traditional wood appearance, then the hardwood timber decking is the best solution. It is very hard to wear and then, if it is looked after, can last for many years. Again, please note that timber will also need maintenance such as oiling or other forms of staining so it does not dry out, split, or become prone to things like termites.

Composite Decking

Plastic composite decking is an option for timber which includes recycled plastic and timber fibres. This material gives the appearance of wood but at a much lower level of maintenance than the actual material. It is also resistant to rot, fade and splintering, making it one of the best options among homeowners who prefer a product that requires very little maintenance.

In terms of eco-friendliness, it is one of the best choices as most of these products are made from recycled materials. While consulting any of the best timber floor and deck companies in Melbourne, the clients can select one or more composite decking brands and two or more finishes that they prefer and are durable enough to fit their tastes.

PVC and Plastic Decking

PVC and plastic decking materials are some of the most low-maintenance products for those homeowners who do not wish to bother themselves with regular care for the timber. Similar to composite decking, PVC has moisture, termite, and rot-resistant properties. They are suited for use in homes that get a lot of rain or where they use the decking section around pools a lot.

PVC decking is available in many different designs as it relates to colour; therefore, you will not struggle to get one that fits your house well. One of the strengths of using PVC is its durability, it can’t twist, break or splinter, unlike the other types of wood.

Bamboo Decking

This decking material or material type is becoming more and more popular due to its environmentally friendly nature. Furthermore, bamboo is very fast-growing providing an alternative material of value to the environmentally mindful homeowner. It is like timber but with a more contemporary, exotic look.

Ironically, bamboo is still quite young in the decking market but is increasingly becoming popular for people looking to adopt the use of more sustainable products. Bamboo decking is a great option and if you’re captivated by this particular material, it is a good idea to talk to some of the deck builders Melbourne professionals to determine how well this material works in your climate and environment.

How to Choose the Best Decking Material for Your Home

When deciding on the best decking material for your home, consider these factors:

  • Budget: Se­lections such as com­pos­ite and PVC have a greater ini­tial cost but their non-req­ui­si­tion of sub­stan­tial main­te­nance makes them eco­nom­i­cal in the long run.
  • Aesthetic: If you are interested in the natural materials used, then you can go for the timber and the bamboo.
  • Durability: When the deck is going to be outside or you plan to install it in an area where there will be many people moving, be sure to pay attention to how durable it is going to be.
  • Maintenance: Timber decks, on the other hand, need constant maintenance; on the other hand, composite, PVC, or plastic decks only need minimal maintenance.

Conclusion

Selecting the best decking product for your home is very critical because this will determine not only the aesthetic value of your home but also the usage and durability of the decking. Whether you have a preference for the solid and natural look of hardwood timber decks or the ease and convenience of low-maintenance options of composite decks, there is the right product for every customer.

To achieve great outcomes, it is significant to talk to services providing timber floors and decks in Melbourne to receive professional recommendations on the choice of materials, the ways of correct installation and further maintenance.

Hazel Jones

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