One of the primary aspects to consider when undertaking a deck construction project is the most suitable materials for your needs. There are multiple aspects to choose from in this sector, but your final decision will be influenced by several elements including your potential budget, functionality, and personal preferences. Wood is arguably the most popular option in the market when it comes to deck-building materials.
According to Straits Research, the decking market across the globe is projected to reach a value of over $8 billion by 2031, experiencing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.21% between 2023 and 2031. The report also identified the USA as the largest market for wooden decks around the world. The popularity of this material in the country is understandable, as a majority of residential construction projects feature lumber. As such timber was arguably the first material to be featured with the introduction of these fixtures to housing designs. Wood is also greatly pliable and can be manipulated into numerous designs.
Homeowners can choose from a wide range of options when it comes to the kind of wood you can implement with your deck construction. Some of the best alternatives recommended by established Framingham MA Deck Builders include:
Cedar
Cedar is one of the leading options in the market when it comes to lumber alternatives. This iconic timber is renowned for its beauty and is generally implemented with projects where aesthetics play a major role in the potential level of satisfactory results enjoyed. It’s also more durable than most softwoods as it can reconstruct its moisture levels to match the surrounding environment. It also features natural oils that make it resistant to threats such as insect infestation.
Douglas Fir
Douglas Fir is another great softwood to implement with your deck-building project. Like Cedar, it features impressive levels of strength and durability and can support up to 18kg per square foot depending on the quality of the wood involved. Its distinctive ridges offer a great natural finish, making it ideal for individuals who would like to implement a sense of raw aesthetics with the construction’s appearance. Its pliability also makes it easy to manipulate using handheld or power tools.
Ipe
Most Framingham MA Deck Builders recommend hardwoods for exterior building projects, with Ipe being a popular option for contractors. It offers highly impressive levels of durability and hardness and can last between 50 to 75 years with proper care and maintenance. Its high-density levels also enhance its longevity, with studies revealing that this wood features a fire rating similar to concrete and steel. This means it’s extremely hard to burn, making it ideal for structures located in dry and hot regions.
Mahogany
Mahogany is another excellent hardwood alternative, combining excellent aesthetics and impressive durability. Its natural oils make them greatly resistant to issues such as molding and infestation and can last for over 20 years with proper care. This lumber is also easy to work with and can be treated to portray several hues through staining or aging processes.
For the best wooden deck services in the market, call us today! Exponential construction, your preferred contractor!
