A deck is a great backyard addition for homes looking to add more outdoor living square footage. However, not all decks are created equal, and depending on where you live, different decking materials may work better than others. In fact, when building a deck, one of the most important decisions you'll make is selecting the right material.
Different climates can have a major impact on how decking materials perform over time. Whether you live in a hot, dry region, or a wet, cold one, choosing the right decking material for your climate can make your deck more durable, easier to maintain, and comfortable to use year-round.
Here’s a breakdown of a few of the top decking materials—wood, composite, and PVC—and how they perform in various weather conditions.
Wood Decking
Wood has been around forever, and remains one of the most popular choices for its natural beauty and classic appeal. If you favor a classic look using organic materials, real wood is hard to beat. But even within the world of real wood decks, there’s a spectrum of what material will best suit your project. The durability and maintenance of wood decking can vary widely depending on the type of wood you select and your local climate.
Best Wood Decking by Climate
Wood decks work well in moderate climates with minimal weather extremes, like areas with mild summers and winters. Wood, especially softwoods like pine, can warp, crack, or fade in high heat and dry conditions. Hardwoods like ipe or teak are better suited to these climates because they are more resistant to heat and drying out.
In areas with heavy rainfall or humidity, wood can absorb moisture, leading to rot or mold growth. Pressure-treated wood and naturally resistant species like cedar or redwood are better choices in humid climates. However, regular sealing is essential to keep wood from absorbing too much water.
For those living in cold or snowy regions, wood can expand and contract as temperatures fluctuate, leading to cracks or splinters. Again, hardwoods tend to hold up better in these conditions, but they will still require consistent maintenance to prevent damage.
Composite Decking
One of the newer materials available to homeowners is composite decking. While it hasn’t been around as long as traditional wood or PVC, composite decking has been gaining steady popularity. Made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, composite deckings offers a more durable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood. It’s designed to withstand various climates and weather conditions better than wood alone without looking or acting like a traditional PVC plastic.
Best Climates for Composite Decking:
Composite decking is a great option for extreme climates that experience either intense heat or frequent moisture. Unlike wood, composite decking doesn’t warp, splinter, or crack in high heat. However, darker-colored composite boards can become quite hot underfoot, so it’s a good idea to choose lighter colors if you live in a hot area.
Composite decking is moisture-resistant, which makes it ideal for regions with frequent rain or humidity. Composite boards are resistant to rot, mold, and mildew, making them far more durable than wood in wet climates.
This type of decking performs well in cold weather, as it won’t shrink or expand as much as wood. However, it can become slippery when wet or icy, so adding a texture or anti-slip treatment is a good idea in snowy regions.
PVC Decking
Finally, let’s talk about PVC (polyvinyl chloride). PVC decking is a popular choice for its low maintenance and long-lasting appeal. Made entirely from plastic, PVC decking is one of the most durable and weather-resistant options available on the market. It’s especially great in climates where moisture is a constant concern.
Best climates for PVC Decking:
PVC is best for wet climates and areas prone to humidity, rain, or even saltwater exposure near the coast. PVC doesn’t absorb moisture, so it won’t crack or warp in high heat like wood can. However, similar to composite, PVC can become hot to the touch in direct sunlight, especially in darker shades.
This type of decking is waterproof, making it the best choice for regions that experience a lot of rain or humidity. It won’t rot, mold, or mildew like wood, nor will it absorb water like some composite materials. Highly resistant to freezing temperatures, PVC decking boards won’t suffer from expansion or contraction. It’s a great choice for areas with harsh winters, though adding anti-slip measures is recommended for safety when the surface gets icy.
Which Decking Material is Best for Your Climate?
When choosing the right decking material for your climate, consider the typical weather patterns in your area before you proceed. For hot, dry regions, hardwoods or composite decking with lighter colors will perform best. In wet or humid areas, moisture-resistant options like composite or PVC are ideal. And for cold climates, choosing a material that resists expansion and contraction, like composite or PVC, will ensure your deck stays in great shape year-round.
Selecting the right decking material can save you time, money, and effort in the long run by reducing maintenance and repairs. With so many options available, there’s a decking material perfectly suited to your climate and lifestyle.
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