Decking & Fencing

What is Decking?

Decking refers to the materials used to construct the floor of an outdoor structure such as a deck or porch. The decking material is what provides the surface for walking and enjoying your outdoor space. A deck can be an extension of your home, a freestanding structure, or a poolside platform. Decking materials come in a wide range of styles, colors, textures, and strengths, allowing homeowners to choose the perfect fit for their needs and aesthetic preferences.

Types of Decking Materials

The type of decking material you choose plays a significant role in the overall durability, aesthetic, and maintenance requirements of your deck. Below are the most popular types of decking materials:

1. Wood Decking

Wood is the traditional choice for decking and remains popular due to its natural beauty and versatility. There are several types of wood that are commonly used for decking, each with its own unique characteristics.

Common Types of Wood Decking:

• Pressure-Treated Wood: This is the most affordable wood decking option, treated with chemicals to resist rot, insects, and decay. Pressure-treated wood is versatile and can be stained or painted to match your desired look.
• Cedar: Known for its natural resistance to decay and insects, cedar decking has a distinctive aroma and is highly valued for its attractive reddish-brown color.
• Redwood: Similar to cedar, redwood offers natural resistance to pests and decay. Its rich color ranges from light pink to deep red.
• Tropical Hardwoods (Ipe, Teak, etc.): These woods are prized for their extreme density, natural resistance to rot and insects, and long lifespan. Tropical hardwoods are more expensive but offer a stunning, exotic appearance.

Benefits of Wood Decking:

• Natural appearance and warmth
• Customizable with staining, painting, and sealing
• Ideal for traditional or rustic outdoor designs
• Sustainable if sourced from certified forests

Drawbacks of Wood Decking:

• Requires regular maintenance, such as sealing and staining
• Prone to cracking, warping, and splintering over time
• Susceptible to fading from sun exposure

2. Composite Decking

Composite decking is a synthetic material made from a combination of wood fibers and plastic. It is designed to provide the look of wood without the maintenance requirements. Composite decking is durable, low-maintenance, and comes in a variety of colors and finishes.

Benefits of Composite Decking:

• Resistant to rotting, splintering, and fading
• Low maintenance—no staining or sealing required
• Environmentally friendly (many composites are made from recycled materials)
• Available in a wide range of colors and textures

Drawbacks of Composite Decking:

• Higher upfront cost compared to wood decking
• May be prone to scratching, depending on the brand and quality
• Some composite materials can expand and contract with temperature changes

3. PVC Decking

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) decking is a 100% plastic material that is known for its exceptional resistance to the elements. PVC decking is completely waterproof, making it ideal for wet climates or poolside areas.

Benefits of PVC Decking:

• No maintenance required (never needs staining, sealing, or painting)
• Highly durable and resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew
• Available in a variety of colors and textures
• Resistant to warping and cracking

Drawbacks of PVC Decking:

• Higher cost compared to wood and composite decking
• May be slippery when wet
• Can get hot under direct sunlight, which may be uncomfortable for bare feet

4. Aluminum Decking

Aluminum decking is a relatively new option in the decking market. It is incredibly strong, lightweight, and resistant to rust and corrosion. Aluminum decking is an excellent choice for areas with heavy rainfall or where a long-lasting material is needed.

Benefits of Aluminum Decking:

• Extremely durable and resistant to corrosion
• Low maintenance—no need to stain, paint, or seal
• Can withstand heavy foot traffic and harsh weather conditions
• Lightweight and easy to handle

Drawbacks of Aluminum Decking:

• Higher cost than wood and composite options
• Limited color options (typically metallic finishes)
• Requires specialized tools for cutting and installation

What is Fencing?

Fencing refers to the installation of barriers or enclosures around a property or outdoor space. Fencing can serve a variety of purposes, including providing privacy, security, aesthetic value, and delineating property lines. Just like decking, the materials used in fencing vary greatly, depending on the intended function and appearance desired.

Types of Fencing Materials

When it comes to choosing a fencing material, there are several options to consider. Each type of fencing material has its own set of benefits and is suitable for different applications.

1. Wood Fencing

Wood fencing is one of the most traditional and popular fencing materials. It offers a natural look that complements various landscape styles and can be customized with paint or stain.

Common Types of Wood Fencing:

• Picket Fences: Classic and charming, picket fences are typically short and decorative, often used for front yards or garden areas.
• Privacy Fences: These fences are taller and designed to provide maximum privacy by blocking the view from the outside.
• Split Rail Fences: Often used for rural or country settings, split rail fences are a simple, rustic fencing style commonly used to define property lines.

Benefits of Wood Fencing:

• Natural appearance that blends well with outdoor spaces
• Customizable with paints, stains, and finishes
• Provides privacy, security, and visual appeal

Drawbacks of Wood Fencing:

• Requires regular maintenance to prevent decay, rot, and pests
• Prone to warping, splintering, and fading over time
• May need to be treated for protection from the elements

2. Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl fencing, also known as PVC fencing, is a synthetic alternative to wood fencing. It is made from durable plastic and offers several advantages over traditional wood fences.

Benefits of Vinyl Fencing:

• Low maintenance—requires only occasional cleaning
• Resistant to rot, pests, and weather-related damage
• Available in a variety of styles, colors, and textures
• Long-lasting and durable

Drawbacks of Vinyl Fencing:

• Higher upfront cost compared to wood
• May become brittle in extremely cold temperatures
• Limited customization options (compared to wood, which can be painted or stained)

3. Metal Fencing (Aluminum, Steel, Wrought Iron)

Metal fences are strong, durable, and offer a sleek, modern aesthetic. Depending on the material, metal fences can provide security, privacy, or decorative appeal.

Types of Metal Fencing:

• Aluminum Fencing: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and available in various styles. It is ideal for decorative purposes or for creating low-maintenance barriers.
• Steel Fencing: Stronger and heavier than aluminum, steel fences offer superior security and durability. They are commonly used for high-security applications.
• Wrought Iron Fencing: Known for its elegance and strength, wrought iron fencing offers a sophisticated look but requires more maintenance to prevent rust.

Benefits of Metal Fencing:

• Extremely durable and resistant to damage
• Low maintenance, especially aluminum fences
• Provides excellent security and privacy (depending on the design)
• Elegant, sophisticated appearance

Drawbacks of Metal Fencing:

• High initial cost, especially for wrought iron or steel
• Requires periodic maintenance to prevent rust (for steel or wrought iron)
• May be too industrial in appearance for certain landscapes

4. Chain Link Fencing

Chain link fencing is one of the most affordable and practical options for creating a secure boundary. It is commonly used in both residential and commercial applications.

Benefits of Chain Link Fencing:

• Cost-effective and highly durable
• Provides visibility, making it ideal for areas where security is important but privacy is not
• Available in various heights and gauges for different levels of security

Drawbacks of Chain Link Fencing:

• Offers little to no privacy
• Can be considered unattractive in certain residential settings
• May require additional measures to improve aesthetics (e.g., privacy slats, greenery)

5. Bamboo Fencing

Bamboo fencing provides a natural, eco-friendly option for creating a unique and stylish boundary. It is often used in tropical or Asian-inspired landscapes.

Benefits of Bamboo Fencing:

• Eco-friendly and sustainable
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Provides a unique, aesthetic look

Drawbacks of Bamboo Fencing:

• Can be susceptible to weathering and damage from pests
• Requires maintenance and sealing for long-term durability

Choosing the Right Decking and Fencing Supplies

Selecting the best decking and fencing materials depends on several factors, including budget, desired appearance, durability, and the specific purpose of the project. Here are some key considerations when choosing materials for your outdoor space:

1. Budget

Your budget will likely be one of the most important factors in choosing materials. Wood is generally the most affordable option, while composite, PVC, and aluminum tend to be more expensive.

2. Aesthetic

Consider the style and design of your home and outdoor space. Do you want a natural, rustic look with wood, or a more modern, low-maintenance option with vinyl or composite materials?

3. Durability

Durability is crucial, especially in regions with harsh weather conditions. If you’re in a humid or rainy area, opt for materials like composite, vinyl, or aluminum that are resistant to moisture and decay.

4. Maintenance

Some materials require more maintenance than others. Wood decks and fences, for example, need to be regularly stained or sealed to protect them from the elements, while composite and vinyl options require little to no maintenance.