A deck shouldn’t be an afterthought, it’s an extension of your home! Whether you’re repairing an existing deck or building one for the first time, choosing the right material is essential to creating a space that’s enjoyable, safe, and built to last in our Pacific Northwest climate.
Over the last decade, the decking industry has changed dramatically. Wood has for many years been the go-to for its natural beauty and lower cost, but newer materials have been gaining popularity due to durability and lower maintenance needs.
Here’s everything you need to know before purchasing a new deck.
Repair or Replace?
If your deck has cracks, stains, mildew, or other signs of wear, you’ll need to decide whether to restore it or replace it. Hidden structural issues can be dangerous, so safety should always come first. Decks built before 2004 may also contain chromated copper arsenate (CCA), a chemical treatment that requires special handling to remove.
It’s essential to have a professional assess your deck for:
- The structural integrity of joists, beams, and railings
- The condition of decking boards
- The presence of hazardous materials
Comparing Decking Materials
When it comes to decking materials home owners have a multitude of options. Each one has pros and cons so it’s important to be informed before making a decision.
Wood Decking
- Pros: Naturally beautiful, can be stained or painted in any color, high resale value.
- Cons: Requires regular maintenance (cleaning, sealing, staining), can fade, crack, or warp over time.
- Best For: Homeowners who love the authentic look and feel of wood and are willing to invest in the upkeep.
Popular Wood Choices in the Pacific Northwest:
- Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insects; weathers to a silvery gray.
- Redwood is strong, insect-resistant, and holds finishes well.
- Pressure-Treated Pine is budget-friendly and durable when sealed regularly.
- Tropical Hardwoods are extremely tough and long-lasting, but expensive and less eco-friendly.
- Modified Wood is co-friendly, durable, and low-maintenance without chemicals.
Composite Decking
- Pros: Low maintenance, resistant to rot and insects, long lifespan (25+ years).
- Cons: Can be more expensive upfront, limited color change options.
- Best For: Busy homeowners who want wood-like beauty without constant upkeep.
Plastic (PVC) Decking
- Pros: Extremely durable, waterproof, insect-resistant, low maintenance.
- Cons: Can look artificial, more expensive, may get hot in summer sun.
- Best For: High-traffic spaces and wet climates like the Greater Seattle area.
Aluminum Decking
- Pros: Incredibly tough, slip-resistant, won’t warp or crack, long lifespan.
- Cons: Expensive, not a natural wood look.
- Best For: Low-maintenance, high-performance outdoor spaces.
Our Decking Services in the Greater-Kitsap Area
At Kitsap Outdoor Living, an Integrity Roofing & Construction brand, we work closely with you to ensure your deck perfectly fits your lifestyle, budget, and home’s style. We offer full-service deck design, construction, and maintenance, including:
- Custom Cedar Decking: Perfect for Pacific Northwest aesthetics and durability.
- Trex Composite Decking: Long-lasting beauty without heavy maintenance.
- Dec-Tec Waterproof Membranes: Ideal for decks above living spaces.
- Floating Deck Systems: Stylish and functional, even in small or uneven yards.
- Trex RainEscape Systems: Keep the area under your deck dry for year-round use.
- Deck Staining and Waterproofing: Protect your investment from the PNW’s rain-heavy climate.
Ready to Build Your Dream Deck?
Whatever your preference, we’ll help you create a deck that stands up to Seattle’s rain, wind, and gorgeous summer sun while giving you a beautiful space to enjoy for years to come.
Call Kitsap Outdoor Living today at (360) 900-2222 or click here for a free consultation. Your dream deck is just a conversation away.
