Building a deck adds more than function and value to a home; it’s a long-term investment in your outdoor enjoyment. Whether you’re looking to expand your living space or build the backyard of your dreams, the success of your deck project hinges on choosing the right materials. Every plank and fastener matters when it comes to durability, aesthetics, and maintenance.
From foundational framing to the finished surface, each layer of your deck contributes to its overall appearance, safety, and longevity. This guide outlines key considerations and material options for a deck project, so you can create a durable, beautiful space that stands the test of time.
Planning Your Deck: Laying the Groundwork
Before purchasing any materials, take time to plan for your needs. Think about:
- Purpose: How will you use the deck? Will you use it to entertain friends and family? Create a space for relaxation? Both? Your intended use will inform the best design and layout for your deck.
- Size and Shape: How much room do you need, and how will the deck fit into your yard?
- Location: Keep sun exposure, elevation, and wind in mind as the elements can influence material choices.
- Permits and Codes: Check with your local building department about safety regulations and necessary permits.
A well-thought-out plan can help to prevent costly mistakes and ensure your deck meets both your functional and aesthetic goals.
Substructure: The Deck’s Backbone
While the decking boards may get all the attention, it’s the substructure that provides critical support. Most decks use pressure-treated wood for joists, beams, and posts to resist moisture and insect damage. Be sure to choose lumber that is rated for ground contact if any part of the framing touches soil.
- Expert Tip: Joist and Beam Protection
Even if it’s treated, framing wood is still vulnerable to long-term moisture damage. To protect your investment, apply flashing tape, like Trex Protect® Joist & Beam Tape, over joists and beams. This butyl-based tape seals fastener holes and prevents water from penetrating wood framing, helping to prevent rot and extend the life of your deck’s substructure.
Ledger Flashing: Sealing the Critical Connection
The ledger board is used to attach the deck to your home, and if it’s not properly protected, it’s where most decks tend to fail. Neglecting to seal the ledger with waterproof flashing can allow moisture to seep into your home’s structure, potentially leading to rot, decay, and even structural failure.
Flashing Tape or Metal Flashing
While there are several types of flashing materials available, only tapes have the ability to create a true waterproof seal. These self-adhering membranes also eliminate the need for fasteners that create holes, and they won’t corrode.
Trex® Seal™ represents a new generation of waterproofing membrane that combines the best performance features of metal and tape flashing. This aluminum-lined tape comes in different sizes to protect the entirety of the ledger board. An 11”-wide tape provides complete coverage of the ledger board face and seals any gaps between the ledger and the substructure. A 22” sub-ledger tape creates a continuous water-tight seal between the ledger and the house wrap to prevent water from infiltrating the house. Both products feature convenient release liners for easy and accurate application and are Code AAMA711 compliant. These extra layers protect the ledger board on all sides, significantly reducing the likelihood of wood decay and increasing the lifespan of a deck.
Decking Boards: Your Deck’s Finished Surface
As the most visible part of a deck, the surface material you choose for your deck impacts both the aesthetics and maintenance requirements.
Common Decking Materials
- Natural Wood: Cedar, redwood, and tropical hardwoods are traditional choices renowned for their natural beauty, although they require regular sealing or staining.
- Pressure-Treated Wood: Economical and widely available, pressure-treated wood needs more upkeep and can crack or splinter over time
- Composite Decking: A blend of wood fibers and recycled plastic, composite boards offer long-lasting durability and low maintenance.
- PVC Decking: 100% plastic decking is resistant to moisture and mold, making it well-suited for wet climates.
When choosing decking, consider climate, maintenance preferences, color, texture, and your budget.
Fasteners and Fastening Systems
Your deck boards need to be securely fastened to the joists. There are two main types of fastening systems:
Face Screws
- Installed directly through the top of the boards.
- Budget-friendly and easy to install.
- Visible, which can detract from the overall look.
Hidden Fasteners
- Installed in grooves along the sides of the boards.
- Provide a clean, screw-free surface.
- Allow for natural expansion and contraction of composite materials.
Look for corrosion-resistant fasteners, especially in coastal areas or when working with pressure-treated lumber.
Under-Deck Drainage: Make the Most of Your Space
If you’re building a second-story or raised deck, you can maximize the space underneath by installing a drainage system that keeps it dry and usable. Installed before the decking boards, these systems create a waterproof barrier above the joists, preventing water from reaching the frame below.
Trex RainEscape® is an above-the-joist drainage system that diverts water away from the deck, protecting the substructure and allowing you to finish the dry space below with furnishings, appliances, electronics, and lighting to create a fully functional outdoor room.
Railings: Style and Safety
Deck railings aren’t just for safety—they’re a major design element that provides the decorative frame to your outdoor space.
Material Options
- Wood: Affordable and easy to customize, but requires ongoing maintenance.
- Metal: Sleek and modern; low maintenance; often made of aluminum or steel.
- Composite: Sturdy, stylish, and easy to maintain.
- Cable or Glass: Modern, open feel; more expensive and complex to install.
Choose a system that meets local building codes (usually a 36″–42″ minimum height) and complements your deck’s style.
Stairs and Skirting
Stairs
Use stringers made from pressure-treated wood and finish with the same material as your decking for consistency. Consider adding stair riser lights for nighttime visibility and safety.
Skirting
Deck skirting conceals the space beneath the deck and can be made from various materials, including wood, lattice, composite boards, or stone veneer. It adds a polished look and can help deter animals.
Lighting and Accessories
Lighting adds ambiance, improves safety, and extends the usability of your deck into the evening hours.
Types of Outdoor Deck Lighting
- Post Cap Lights
- Riser Lights (for stairs)
- Recessed Deck Lights
- String Lights or Hanging Fixtures
Many systems are low-voltage and energy-efficient. Look for plug-and-play systems that are easy to install with your railing or deck boards.
Final Thoughts: Build Smart, Build to Last
A deck is more than just a place to set your grill—it’s an investment in your home’s value and your quality of life. The right materials—from structural framing and moisture protection to deck boards, fasteners, and accessories—make all the difference in how long your deck lasts and the amount of maintenance it requires.
Taking the time to choose quality materials tailored to your location and lifestyle ensures that your deck is not only safe and code-compliant but also a beautiful, low-maintenance retreat you can enjoy for years to come.
