Building a deck is an investment, and choosing the right materials for your boards and railings is key to its longevity, beauty, and enjoyment. Let's explore some of the leading brands and materials to help you make an informed decision:
Popular Deck Board Brands
Trex: A pioneer in composite decking, known for its durability, fade resistance, and low maintenance. They offer a wide array of colors and textures to suit various styles.
TimberTech AZEK: Offers high-performance composite decking with stunning aesthetics and innovative capped polymer technology for enhanced stain and scratch resistance.
Deckorators: Provides a variety of composite decking options, including their Voyage line with mineral-based composite technology for superior durability.
Fiberon: Offers composite decking known for its realistic wood grain patterns and a range of colors that complement any outdoor space.
Leading Railing Brands
Fortress Railing: Specializes in iron and aluminum railings with various styles, from classic to contemporary, and focuses on durability and minimal maintenance.
Westbury Railing: Offers aluminum railing systems with clean lines, various infill options (glass, cable, etc.), and a focus on customization to match your home’s architecture.
Feeney CableRail: A leader in cable railing systems, providing a sleek, modern look with unobstructed views.
TimberTech/AZEK Railing: Provides composite railing systems that coordinate seamlessly with their decking lines, offering a unified look and low-maintenance solution.
Material Considerations
Composite Decking:
Pros: Durable, low-maintenance, resistant to rot, insects, and fading.
Cons: Can be more expensive than wood upfront, can get hot underfoot in direct sunlight.
Wood Decking:
Pros: Natural beauty, can be stained or painted to customize, more affordable options available.
Cons: Requires regular maintenance (staining, sealing), susceptible to rot, insect damage, and splintering.
Aluminum Railing:
Pros: Durable, rustproof, low maintenance, modern aesthetic.
Cons: Can be more expensive than other materials, not as warm to the touch as wood.