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7/10/2024 12:44 PM
Building a deck is a fantastic way to enhance your outdoor living space and increase the value of your home. However, selecting the right materials is crucial to ensure your deck is durable, low-maintenance and long-lasting. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best materials for your deck construction with deck builders Omaha.

1. Pressure-treated wood

Pressure-treated wood is one of the most common materials used for decking. It is treated with chemicals to resist rot, decay and insect damage, making it a durable choice for outdoor structures. This type of wood is generally more affordable than other options, which makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

Pros:

  • Cost-effective: Generally less expensive than other decking materials.
  • Durable: Treated to resist decay and insects.
  • Versatile: Can be stained or painted to match your aesthetic preferences.

Cons:

  • Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance, such as staining and sealing, to maintain its appearance and longevity.
  • Chemical treatment: Contains chemicals that some homeowners prefer to avoid.

2. Cedar and redwood

Cedar and redwood are both naturally resistant to rot and insect damage due to their inherent oils. These woods have a beautiful, natural appearance and can add a touch of elegance to any deck. They are slightly more expensive than pressure-treated wood but offer a longer lifespan with proper care.

Pros:

  • Natural beauty: Rich, warm colors and attractive grain patterns.
  • Natural resistance: Resistant to rot and insect damage without chemical treatment.
  • Less maintenance: Requires less maintenance than pressure-treated wood, though still needs regular care.

Cons:

  • Cost: More expensive than pressure-treated wood.
  • Maintenance: Requires regular staining or sealing to maintain its appearance and durability.

3. Composite decking

Composite decking is made from a mixture of wood fibers and plastic. This material is designed to mimic the look of wood while offering superior durability and low maintenance. Composite decking has become increasingly popular due to its long-lasting nature and ease of care.

Pros:

  • Low maintenance: Does not require staining, sealing or painting.
  • Durable: Resistant to rot, insects and weathering.
  • Aesthetic variety: Available in a variety of colors and textures to match any style.

Cons:

  • Cost: Generally more expensive upfront than wood options.
  • Temperature sensitivity: Can become hot under direct sunlight.

4. PVC decking

PVC decking is made entirely from plastic and offers one of the longest lifespans among decking materials. It is highly resistant to moisture, insects and rot, making it an excellent choice for areas with harsh weather conditions.

Pros:

  • Durability: Extremely resistant to weather, moisture and insects.
  • Low maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep beyond regular cleaning.
  • Variety: Available in many colors and styles.

Cons:

  • Cost: Higher upfront cost compared to other materials.
  • Appearance: Some homeowners prefer the natural look of wood over plastic.

5. Aluminum decking

Aluminum decking is an unconventional but highly durable choice. It is resistant to rust, rot and weathering, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners seeking longevity.

Pros:

  • Long-lasting: Extremely durable and resistant to the elements.
  • Low maintenance: Requires little to no maintenance.
  • Slip-resistant: Often designed with a slip-resistant surface.

Cons:

  • Cost: One of the more expensive decking options.
  • Aesthetic: Industrial look may not appeal to all homeowners.

When choosing materials for your deck, consider factors such as cost, maintenance, durability and aesthetics. Pressure-treated wood, cedar and redwood offer natural beauty and traditional appeal, while composite, PVC and aluminum provide long-lasting, low-maintenance alternatives. Each material has its pros and cons, so selecting the best one depends on your specific needs and preferences when working with deck builders Omaha.

Deck builders Omaha

At Lightwine Construction, we specialize in building custom decks that suit your lifestyle and enhance your home’s value. Contact us today to discuss your deck project and discover the best materials to create a beautiful, durable outdoor space that you’ll enjoy for years to come. 

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We take pride in every project we do because we want to like the work we do, not just you! Each project matters to us. Because of this, we aim to build a relationship with our clients so we can best make a project they can love and be excited about. Barebones communication is just not our style. Here at Lightwine Construction is able to both design and build a project. We sell what a project is going to look like.

We've engaged Lightwine Construction for several projects, initially discovering the company through the impeccable attention to detail and quality showcased in a friend's completed project. Our projects with Lightwine Construction involved fairly complex tasks, including framing and the restoration of the exterior of a 100-year-old residence. Johan and Heath's expertise, along with their valuable suggestions and problem-solving skills, played a crucial role in successfully completing these projects that other contractors had hesitated to undertake. We are pleased with the outstanding quality of work, attention to detail, and their ability to adhere to both schedule and budget. Without hesitation, we would highly recommend Lightwine Construction to friends and family.

— Mark and Brenda Ehrhart

I could not say more positive things about our experience with Lightwine Construction. From the very start of the process, Johann and Heath made us feel heard and respected. They were both communicative as well as trustworthy and their team was consistent and professional. When we changed our mind in the preliminary stages, they were very adaptable and encouraging. We most appreciated the details regarding all options, with both negative and positive aspects, allowing us to make the most appropriate decision. They came to our home personally on multiple occasions to ensure all was being taken care of and that we were happy with the ongoing stages as the vision came together. We built our addition towards the end of fall and in true Nebraska fashion, the snow came immediately. It is not only structurally amazing but it was a treat to be able to stand underneath our addition while the snow fell around us. We can’t wait to sit outside with our family and friends enjoying evening dinners, hosting summer birthday parties, and supporting Husker football. Experiencing all the seasons! I would recommend Lightwine Construction to everyone!

— Josh and Erika Marron

I hired Heath Lightwine last Spring to design and build an attached roof off my house into my backyard. He and his crew did a great job in a short amount of time. From the design to the last shingle going on, I couldn't have asked for better results! I will definitely hire Heath again.

— Don Shepard, Elkhorn