Are you looking to transform your backyard with a new deck but worried about the hefty price tags? Decking materials can significantly influence the cost of your outdoor project. With the help of deck installers, you can find the cheapest decking materials that can offer a great compromise between quality and budget.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through some of the cheapest options available – from pressure-treated lumber to bamboo decking! Don’t miss out on creating an attractive outdoor space; let’s dig in together for affordable solutions sure to impress without breaking the bank.
Comparison of Cheapest Decking Materials
In the quest to transform your outdoor space, several affordable decking materials such as pressure-treated decking, cedar 5/4×6 decking, 3/4″ plywood, composite decking, and bamboo are available in the market, each offering unique features and benefits.
Option 1: Pressure-Treated Decking
Pressure-treated decking is a top pick if you want to save money. It often costs less than other wood types. This lumber has special chemicals in it. These chemicals make the wood last longer and fight off bugs better.
But you have to paint or seal this deck yearly to keep it from rotting or splitting. Also, some people don’t care for the look of pressure-treated decks as they age and lose their color.
Despite these things, many folks go with this cheap option because of its low upfront cost and tough nature.
Related Post: Deck Rot: How To Prevent And Fix It
Option 2: Composite Decking
Composite decking is a great pick for your deck. This material has components like vinyl, polystyrene, or PVC in it. It costs around $7.50 for each square foot. That’s pretty cheap! This type of deck also needs less upkeep than other kinds.
That means you’ll save time and effort on cleaning and repairs, too!
Option 3: PVC Decking
PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is one of the most affordable options for decking materials. Multiple factors contribute to its low price. PVC decking typically has a lower initial cost than alternatives such as wood or composite materials. Furthermore, PVC’s longevity and minimal maintenance requirements contribute to long-term savings, as it resists decay, insects, and warping, reducing the need for costly replacements or repairs.
The durability of PVC ensures that it retains its aesthetic allure over time, eliminating the need for frequent staining or sealing. In essence, PVC decking offers a budget-friendly solution without sacrificing quality or durability, making it an excellent option for those in search of inexpensive outdoor living spaces.
Concrete Pavers with Pea Gravel
Pea gravel and concrete pavers are attractive landscaping alternatives to asphalt and poured concrete. An appealing and affordable sidewalk and driveway choice is pea gravel, which is small, smooth stones. Its affordability makes it a good choice for those wishing to improve their outdoor spaces on a budget. The natural beauty and relaxing sound of pea gravel also make it appealing. It’s flexible enough to shape around landscaping features and easy to install for DIYers.
Concrete pavers, however, are affordable and durable. They are suitable for patios, pathways, and driveways due to their variety of forms, colors, and sizes. Concrete pavers look like natural stone but are cheaper. DIYers love them because of their uniform size and shape, which makes installation easy. They also provide a firm, flat surface for outdoor activities and are durable due to their interlocking architecture. Alternative pavement solutions offer homeowners a budget-friendly and attractive approach to enhance their outdoor living spaces.
Cedar and Redwood
Redwood and cedar are affordable, durable natural woods for decking and outdoor applications. Redwood is deep crimson, while cedar is warm and honey-like, making both woods attractive. They resist deterioration and insects, which is a major benefit. Redwood and cedar are naturally rot-resistant due to their oils and tannins, making them durable in outdoor applications without chemicals.
Redwood and cedar may change color over time owing to sunshine and weather. Some homeowners like their silvery-gray patina, but others stain or seal them to help them keep their original color. Clean regularly, refinish as needed, and drain properly to avoid moisture issues. Despite these limitations, redwood and cedar are still popular outdoor wood options for individuals who want natural wood without the expensive cost of exotic hardwoods.
Pros and Cons of Each Material
Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each of these affordable decking materials.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
| Pressure- Treated Decking | Pressure-treated lumber is one of the cheapest decking materials, starting at a low upfront cost. Biewer Select Cut, for example, is a low-maintenance option for such decking. | Despite its affordability, pressure-treated wood may require more maintenance than other materials and it may not last as long. |
| Cedar 5/4×6 Decking | Cedar decking is another affordable choice, with prices ranging from $9 to $14 per linear foot. It also adds a warm, natural aesthetic to your outdoor space. | Cedar decking is softer than some materials, which can lead to scratches or dents. It also requires regular maintenance to keep its appearance. |
| 3/4″ Plywood | Plywood is a cheap and versatile material. It’s also lightweight, making it easier to handle and install compared to other materials. | Plywood may not hold up as well in the elements and may require more maintenance and replacements over time. |
| Composite Decking | Composite decking, made from materials like vinyl or cellular PVC, is a reliable and affordable option, with prices averaging around $7.50 per square foot. It’s also easy to maintain and resistant to weather and pests. | Though affordable, composite decking may not have the same natural look and feel as wood. It can also fade over time. |
| Bamboo Decking | Bamboo decking is an affordable and eco-friendly choice. It’s also quite durable and resistant to insects and decay. | While bamboo is a strong material, it may require more maintenance than other options, particularly in damp environments. It may also be more susceptible to scratches and dents. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Affordable Decking
When choosing affordable decking, it’s important to look into a range of factors. These include the durability of the material, which determines its ability to withstand wear and tear under different weather conditions making it long-lasting
Also crucial is the lifespan of your chosen material – this indicates how long you can expect your deck to last without needing replacement. The ease or complexity of installation matters too, impacting not just time but cost as well.
Maintenance considerations such as cleaning frequency or requirement for regular sealing will also affect overall affordability in the long run. Finally, make sure you look at both warranty and price – these are critical points that directly impact your pocketbook when deciding on cheap decking materials.
Conclusion
Choosing the right deck material can save money. Pressure-treated wood is a nice, cheap option. Composite decking also gives more bang for your buck. Do research to find what fits best for you within your budget.
Building Decks is What We Do Best!
For homeowners wishing to improve their outdoor refuge, South Shore Deck Builders provides top-notch deck building services. We turn barren backyards into tropical havens for affordable prices. Contact us today to arrange a consultation with one of our professionals and start creating your deck!
