Top 5 Deck Materials -  Best Materials

The first would be pressure Treated Southern Yellow Pine. Dollar for dollar Pressure treated decks are a great buy. These decks do require an initial sanding and sealing as well as some regular sealing and staining.

The main thing here is the first sealing must be done correctly and when the wood is still very fresh. The initial treatment  insures the wood seasons gently and will greatly enhance the lifespan and beauty of your Pressure treated deck.

Coming in at the number two position would be Ipe, also know as Iron Wood.
The best part about Ipe is that its the hardest densest deck material real or synthetic. It will last well beyond any other outdoor decking, it is rot and decay resistant, does not split and splinter like other woods and is very simple to pressure wash.

A lot of companies are rallying to produce composites that look like and try to last like Ipe, most times costing much more then ipe itself. Ipe is a fantastic buy and an excellent outdoor deck material, It’s beauty and durability is second to none.

The 3rd type of deck would is Tigerwood (goncalo Alves). Tigerwood’s striking grain is a conversation piece. The graceful wood tones actually become richer when exposed to the sun. Although not as dense as Ipe, Tigerwood is still very strong and long lasting.

It is not necessary to oil or seal Tigerwood, but maintaining  the rich deep color and striking grain contrast requires  several oiling’s in the first few years. It’s a good idea to thoroughly apply the initial oiling and use  as many as 3 light discreet coats in the first year.  Tigerwood decking contrast nicely with white solid vinyl rails!

In the number for spot we have Evergrain composite deck: Evergrain offers a softer more organic look then most other composites. The deep embossed grain and excellent natural color pallet looks much more like a real wood deck.

While the surface is quite hard and durable, Evergrain performs well and is truly “easycare” requiring only light periodical cleanings. Evergrain is tough enough for careful pressure washing.

Evergrain does not have a fading problem like Trex and some of the others had, initially the color will slightly fade to the desirable final shade or color.

Evergrain has been a favorite composite of many over the years.

Last but not least is Azek.

Azek is lighter then most composites and very easy to work with. Azek is a very neat and clean and looks like vinyl siding we are used to seeing on houses.

Defiantly not to be confused with a look of real wood Akez almost has a hygienic look. Can be too artificial looking for some while others find the same attribute desirable. Darker colors are subject to chalking.