When constructing San Antonio decks, one of the primary concerns is choosing the right building material for the job. This is a vital factor to keep in mind, especially given how hot our southern Texas summers can get. Temperatures from June through August regularly climb into the mid to upper 90s while the highs can exceed 100 degrees on many days! So it’s important to choose a decking material that offers comfort and durability in the heat.
It’s also important to consider other factors like how much time you have to devote to upkeep on your deck each year or where your deck will be placed (on the ground level, up a story, over a patio, under a roof, in the full sun, in full shade, etc.). Here’s a look at some of your best options:
- Treated pine is a classic option for decks. It can last many years if it is maintained properly, and it is relatively inexpensive. Treated pine is an attractive choice, especially if it’s stained. Over time, though, it can warp, splinter, and crack. Plus, it needs regular washing or sanding and refinishing to maximize its lifespan.
- Redwood, cedar, and mahogany are higher-priced woods than treated pine, but they last longer and require less maintenance. They make for stunning decks that can last a long time if maintained by cleaning or sanding and sealing every few years. These woods vary in quality, with the heartwood varieties considered the best. Costs may be greater than with pine because the wood is more expensive and screws must often be used rather than nails due to the density and grain characteristics of the woods.
- Ipe (pronounced “ee-pay”) wood is considered one of the finest natural decking materials on earth. It comes from very heavy, very dense trees that are extremely slow growing. Using ipe can be pricey, though, because of the cost of the wood and the amount of work needed to cut it, shape it, and install it. On the other hand, it is breathtaking in appearance and can last a very long time.
- Composite decking combines wood and synthetic components. It comes in many different colors and textures, won’t rot like natural wood, and is completely barefoot friendly since it won’t warp or splinter. This is an extremely popular choice for decking material since it is exceptionally durable, and it is very easy to maintain. It only requires occasional washing when needed and does not require staining or sealing. Another great feature of composite decking is that it is partially made up of recycled materials such as plastic and waste wood, which allows you to go green and keep some of these materials out of landfills. Composite decking can be a little pricier initially, but its longevity and the costs you save on maintaining it over other types of wood more than make up for it.
We hope this information answers some of your questions about San Antonio decks. Call us here at American Fence & Deck today for more information or to schedule a free estimate. We’d love to help you find the best material that works for your deck.
