Choosing the best deck materials in Calgary is no easy feat as your options are virtually endless. From more natural materials like hardwoods and softwoods to composite decking and more, the decking products you choose can help or hamper your outdoor space.
Here’s how to ensure you choose only the best deck materials in Calgary, Alberta that will suit your style, space, and budget.
Choose the Best Deck Materials in Calgary
If you want durability, aesthetics, and good quality, you will have your pick of deck materials in Calgary. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, which is why it’s so important you weigh out your decision and make sure you find something that works for you.
Hardwoods and Softwoods
Hardwood decking refers to decking materials made from the wood of broad-leaved, deciduous trees. These trees lose their leaves annually and tend to grow more slowly, resulting in dense, hardwood. Hardwood decking is known for its durability, resistance to wear, and attractive appearance. Common hardwoods used for decking include:
- Ipe: Extremely hard and dense, resistant to rot and insects.
- Cumaru: Also known as Brazilian Teak, durable and resistant to decay.
- Tigerwood: Known for its striking appearance with dark stripes.
- Teak: Highly valued for its weather resistance and beautiful golden colour.
On the other hand, softwood decking refers to decking materials made from coniferous, evergreen trees. These trees have needles and cones and grow more quickly than hardwood trees, resulting in wood decking that is generally lighter and less dense. Softwood decking is often more affordable but may require more maintenance to ensure longevity. Common softwoods used for decking include:
- Pine: Often pressure-treated to enhance durability and resistance to rot.
- Cedar: Naturally resistant to decay and insects, with a distinctive aroma.
- Redwood: Known for its natural resistance to rot and attractive reddish colour.
- Douglas Fir: Light-colored and commonly used for its strength and affordability.
Tropical Hardwood
Extremely dense and highly durable, these decking materials boast rich colours and resist insects and decay, lasting about 25 years. However, they are pricey, heavy, and challenging to work with—so tough that you’ll need to pre-drill holes before hammering nails. If your deck gets a lot of sun, avoid dark woods as they can heat up a lot.
Redwood and Cedar
A step up from pressure-treated wood (and with a price tag to match) are cedar and redwood. These woods have natural defences against rot and insects and should last around 20 years.
However, they are soft and can be easily damaged by foot traffic. Both red cedar and redwood are lightweight and stiff. Among the cedar varieties, lighter-coloured Port Orford Cedar is the hardest and most wear-resistant.
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is wood that has been infused with chemical preservatives to protect it from rot, decay, and insect damage. This treatment process extends the lifespan of the wood, making it suitable for outdoor projects such as decking, fencing, and landscaping.
The process involves placing the wood in a pressure chamber, where it is subjected to a vacuum to remove air and moisture. Then, chemical preservatives are forced into the wood under high pressure. This ensures deep penetration of the preservatives, providing long-lasting protection against the elements and pests.
The main benefits of using pressure-treated wood and the reason so many homeowners love it is that it is incredibly durable, cost-effective, and versatile. It’s incredibly resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage and it’s perfect for many outdoor projects, including decks, fences, railings, and even playgrounds.
Composite Decks
Composite decks are made from recycled materials, primarily wood fibres and plastic. These materials are combined to create decking that mimics the appearance of wood but offers greater durability and low maintenance.
The two most popular types of composite decking are:
- Capped
- Uncapped
Capped decks feature a protective outer layer (cap) that provides additional resistance to moisture, stains, and fading. What’s more, they have enhanced durability and lower maintenance compared to uncapped composites.
However, uncapped composite does not have a protective outer layer and it is generally more affordable than capped composites. However, keep in mind that it’s more susceptible to staining and fading over time.
PVC Decks
PVC decks are made from 100% polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a type of plastic known for its durability and resistance to environmental elements. Unlike composite decking materials, which mix wood fibres with plastic, PVC decking is entirely synthetic.
The reason so many homeowners are choosing PVC decking in Calgary is that it’s incredibly durable, low maintenance, and resistant to fading, maintaining its colour for a longer time. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for deck materials in Calgary that will last and require minimal upkeep.
Environment-Friendly Products
Choosing the right deck materials in Calgary involves balancing environmental impact, sustainability, and practical considerations. Modern pressure-treated wood, composite decking, and PVC offer various eco-friendly benefits.
On the other hand, responsibly sourced natural woods, backed by FSC certification, ensure sustainable forest management. By considering these factors, you can choose a decking material that aligns with your environmental values and contributes to a more sustainable future.
A Few Useful Tips
When designing your deck, think about where you’ll place your furniture and ensure there’s enough room to walk comfortably around each item. An outdoor outlet within easy reach can also be a great addition, reducing the need for pesky extension cords.
Pressure-treated wood is a popular choice for a deck’s framing and foundation, thanks to its cost-effectiveness and durability. This holds whether you’re building a simple one-level deck or a more complex multi-level one.
If you’re considering composite or vinyl decking materials, keep in mind that each manufacturer may have its own specific fasteners, tools, and installation recommendations.
By considering these elements, you’ll create a deck that’s not only stylish but also practical and built to last.
Get Help with YYC Builders
If you’re looking for someone to help with your decking project, we at YYC Builders are here for you. We offer expert consultation to guide you in choosing the best deck materials in Calgary.
Our team provides custom design services to create a deck design that fits your specific needs and preferences. We handle everything from the initial design to the final construction, ensuring a smooth and efficient process. With our experience and expertise, we can bring your vision to life, creating a beautiful and functional outdoor space for you to enjoy.
For a hassle-free decking project, call YYC Builders, and let’s get started on creating your perfect deck.
