When building a deck, choosing the right material is essential for ensuring that it can withstand the climate in which you live. Different weather conditions—such as extreme heat, humidity, or freezing temperatures—can affect the longevity and appearance of your decking. The right decking material will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space but also offer durability and long-term performance in varying climates. Here’s a guide to the best decking materials for all climates.
1. Wood Decking
Wood is one of the most popular decking materials due to its natural look, versatility, and affordability. However, its performance depends largely on the climate it’s exposed to.
- Best For: Mild to moderate climates
- Climate Suitability: In areas with moderate temperatures and low humidity, wood decking, especially cedar or redwood, performs well. However, in extreme climates (high humidity or harsh winters), wood can warp, crack, and rot over time unless properly treated.
- Maintenance: Wood requires regular sealing, staining, and cleaning to maintain its beauty and longevity. In humid areas, wood may need more frequent maintenance to protect it from mildew and mold.
- Best Choices: Cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated lumber.
Wooden decks add a classic, natural look but require more upkeep in areas with high moisture or fluctuating temperatures.
2. Composite Decking
Composite decking is made from a combination of wood fibers and plastic, offering the best of both worlds. It’s highly resistant to the elements, including moisture, heat, and cold.
- Best For: All climates (especially hot or humid environments)
- Climate Suitability: Composite decking is perfect for hot, humid, or cold climates. Unlike wood, it won’t warp, splinter, or crack. It’s also resistant to mold, mildew, and termites, making it a great choice for areas with heavy rain or high humidity.
- Maintenance: Composite decking is low-maintenance. It only requires periodic cleaning with soap and water. There’s no need for sealing, staining, or painting.
- Best Brands: Trex, TimberTech, and Fiberon.
Composite decks are a durable, low-maintenance option that works well in nearly any climate, making them a top choice for homeowners seeking long-term value.
3. PVC Decking
PVC decking is made from 100% synthetic materials, providing a highly durable surface that stands up well to the elements. It’s a great choice for homeowners who want a low-maintenance deck that can handle intense weather.
- Best For: Hot and humid climates, coastal areas
- Climate Suitability: PVC decking is highly resistant to heat, moisture, and saltwater, making it ideal for coastal areas and places with high humidity. It’s also great for areas with hot summers because it won’t expand or contract with temperature changes.
- Maintenance: PVC decks require very little upkeep. Simply clean them occasionally with water and mild detergent. They don’t require painting or staining.
- Best Brands: Azek, Wolf, and CertainTeed.
PVC decking is a solid choice for coastal areas and regions with extreme heat, as it offers a durable and low-maintenance option that’s resistant to the elements.
4. Aluminum Decking
Aluminum decking is incredibly strong, lightweight, and resistant to the elements. It’s an excellent choice for decks that need to endure a variety of harsh conditions, including both heat and cold.
- Best For: Extreme climates (both cold and hot)
- Climate Suitability: Aluminum decking is perfect for all climates. It won’t crack, warp, or splinter in any weather conditions, making it a fantastic option for regions with extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold. It also doesn’t absorb water, so it’s resistant to mold and mildew.
- Maintenance: Aluminum is incredibly low-maintenance. It doesn’t require sealing, staining, or painting, but occasional cleaning is needed to maintain its shine.
- Best Brands: TimberTech, Deckorators, and DuraLife.
Aluminum decking is a great all-around option, providing long-lasting performance in every climate, with minimal maintenance.
5. Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is wood that has been chemically treated to resist rot, decay, and insect damage. It’s one of the most affordable decking materials, making it a popular choice for homeowners on a budget.
- Best For: Mild climates or areas with moderate humidity
- Climate Suitability: Pressure-treated wood performs well in mild climates with low humidity. However, in areas with high humidity or extreme cold, pressure-treated wood may be more prone to warping or cracking unless it’s regularly maintained.
- Maintenance: It requires periodic sealing to protect it from moisture damage and fading. In harsh weather conditions, more frequent maintenance may be required.
- Best Choices: Southern yellow pine is the most common choice for pressure-treated wood decks.
Pressure-treated wood is an affordable option but requires consistent maintenance in more extreme climates to prevent damage.
6. Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Ipe is a dense and durable hardwood known for its natural beauty and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. It’s often regarded as one of the best decking materials for its performance and aesthetics.
- Best For: All climates, especially hot or humid climates
- Climate Suitability: Ipe performs exceptionally well in all climates, including areas with extreme heat or cold. It is resistant to rot, insects, and moisture, making it a great choice for humid or coastal environments.
- Maintenance: Ipe requires minimal maintenance. It can weather to a silver-gray patina over time, or you can apply oil-based finishes to maintain its rich color. Regular cleaning is necessary to keep it looking its best.
- Best Choices: Ipe is a premium hardwood decking option known for its superior strength and resistance to the elements.
Ipe decking is an excellent choice for those seeking a durable, beautiful, and long-lasting material for any climate.
7. Cedar Decking
Cedar is a naturally beautiful wood known for its resistance to moisture, insects, and rot. It’s ideal for climates with moderate weather and can be used in a variety of styles.
- Best For: Moderate climates
- Climate Suitability: Cedar decking is best for areas with mild weather, as it is more prone to damage in extreme weather conditions. It performs well in areas with moderate humidity but may require more frequent maintenance in places with high humidity or extreme cold.
- Maintenance: Cedar needs regular sealing or staining to protect it from moisture and fading. Without maintenance, it may weather to a grayish color.
- Best Choices: Western red cedar is the most popular choice for decking.
Cedar is a great option for moderate climates, offering a beautiful, natural appearance with some maintenance.
Conclusion
The best decking material for your climate depends on several factors, including temperature extremes, humidity, and exposure to moisture. For regions with harsh conditions, composite, PVC, and aluminum decking are the most durable and low-maintenance choices. If you’re in a moderate climate, traditional wood decking such as cedar or pressure-treated wood can be a good option, but keep in mind that these materials require regular maintenance. Ipe is a fantastic choice if you want a premium, long-lasting wood decking that works in virtually any climate.
By considering your local weather and your preferences for maintenance, durability, and aesthetics, you can choose the best decking material to create an outdoor space that’s both functional and beautiful.
