Custom Decks
There are few images more American than enjoying a Bar-B-Que with the family on your deck, kids playing in the backyard, sun shining and friends laughing.
AGC Contracting is proud to offer our clients a range of options when it comes to decks and deck materials. We will work with you to design your ideal deck and provide you and your family with a great entertainment setting for many years to come. We build custom decks in St. Louis, St. Charles, O' Fallon, St. Peters, Chesterfield, Wildwood, South County, North County and West County.
Deck Material Comparison
Redwood and cedar were the choices of yore when homeowners added a deck twenty years ago. Now we have a variety of new, composite materials in addition to wood. What are the relative advantages and disadvantages? Where are the different materials best applied and how long will they hold up? The following table may help you make a decision about what material is best for your project.
Natural Wood
Wood has character than no composite can offer. Unfortunately, it also requires substantial maintenance. Higher grade heartwoods are more durable and correspondingly more expensive than soft woods. Some common wooden decking includes:
- Cedar
- Redwood
- Mahogany
- South American hardwoods
Advantages
- Beautiful
- If maintained, they age gracefully
- Lower cost than other materials
- May be refinished as needed
- Easy to paint or stain
Disadvantages
- Requires annual maintenance and sealing every year or so
- Lower on initial cost; higher than composites over the long term
- Softer woods deteriorate relatively quickly
- May split, crack, splinter or warp
- Depending on wood, may not be pest resistant
- May use old growth wood or not be sustainably harvested
Composites
These are usually a blend of wood fiber and plastic resin with an embossed grain for a wood look. Best application is first floor decks or use it for built-in deck seating.
All composites are not equal:
- wood + polyethylene (#1 plastic like soda bottles)
- wood + polypropylene (#2 water and milk jugs)
Advantages
- Durable
- Low maintainance
- Some are paintable or stainable
- Doesn't splinter, split or warp
- Moisture, pest and rot resistant
- May use environmentally safe technology to produce a green product
- Works up similar to real wood
- Recycled material does not end up in landfills
Disadvantages
- More expensive than wood
- Less strong than wood so requires closer joist spacing
- Often specifies pressure-treated wood for structural support
- Regardless of the warranty of the composite deck material, the deck will only last as long as the wood supports hold up
- Can not be refinished
- Environmental claims may be just so much "greenwashing"
Plastics and Vinyl
Plastics may be recyclable plastics like PET, HDPE, LDPE, or not, like PVC (vinyl). They can be environmentally friendly or, as with vinyl, add toxins to the waste stream. Read specifications carefully to make sure you are getting what you think you are.
Advantages
- Similar to other composites in terms of maintenance
Disadvantages
- Lacks structural strength, so horizontal members may sag
- UV radiation may cause brittleness that can lead to breakage
- Tends to expand at higher temperatures
Aluminum
Interlocking metal boards can be especially attractive on modern style architecture.
Disadvantages
- Attracts dirt
- Expensive
- May dent
Keep in mind that wood deck materials have been with us as long as we have been building decks, whereas composites are newer entrants to this market. Though many offer impressive warranties, most composite decks have not been in place long enough to see if they are as truly low maintenance and durable as the manufacturers claim.
Costs for deck material are based on availability and what works best in that area. As a consequence, when calculating cost, it would be wise to factor in your time and additional resources over a five-year period to see which material is the most cost effective.
In the end, the quality you build into your deck will determine your overall satisfaction. Because it is a part of your home's exterior face, it is wise to plan carefully and invest in the best materials and workmanship you can afford.
Deck Railing Options
It is very uncommon to see a modern deck without some sort of railing surrounding it. With that said, it is surprising how many people see the railing on their deck as an afterthought.
It is not an afterthought at all. If you want your deck to live up to its full potential as a relaxing, beautiful sanctuary that is also safe, you should read this article for ideas on how to maximize and realize the potential of your deck railings.
Iron Rods
While railings can be beautiful, they are also a great safety measure. If you have small children or a loved one with balance problems, you should seriously consider the type of deck railing you will install. Iron rods are a poor choice for new families as young children won't be able to resist trying to squeeze through the cracks.
If you do not have young children, iron rods are a great choice. As we all know, wood rots after some time while iron does not. A wooden deck railing may not be able to support the weight of several adults when they are leaning against it with all their weight.
Safety aside, deck railings can be as beautiful as they are practical. A deck railing can also be a great place to rest colorful planter boxes. Being raised, they may receive more sunlight and rain and could flourish. Plus, this lovely accent acts as a colorful crown on your deck!
Vinyl Deck Railings
Vinyl deck railings are sturdy. They come in any color and they last three times longer than wood. They also don’t split or splinter.
Plexiglas
Plexiglas is probably the best new option. It last longer than vinyl and wood and it provides a near seamless view of your property. It almost looks like you do not have a railing at all. Plus, since there is no way to squeeze through the rails, it is safe for young children.
Do not delay in having your new family entertainment area any longer.
Contact us today.