When it comes to building a deck, there are a lot of things to consider. One of the most significant is the material from which your deck will be constructed. Because materials all have different pros and cons, it's important to work with your deck contractor to ensure that you choose the right material for your needs. However, to help give you a better idea of what materials you can choose from, here is what you need to know about the most common deck materials.

Choosing the Best Deck Materials

Choosing the right deck material isn't as easy as just selecting the option that looks the best. Some options will do better in certain conditions than others, and some will require more maintenance. To help give you a better idea, here are the top five most common deck materials to choose from.

1. Pressure-Treated Wood

Pressure-treated wood is one of the most popular choices for decking materials, and it can be found in over 75% of newly constructed decks. Because it has been chemically treated, it is extremely durable and resistant to rot, mold, and insects. In addition to this, it is also relatively affordable, making it the go-to for many deck builders. However, this material isn't without its drawbacks and maintenance can be an issue. This material also has the potential to crack and warp over time. Because of this, you may end up needing to treat them more and even replace some boards in the future to keep them in good condition.

2. Tropical Hardwoods

Tropical hardwoods like tigerwood, pipe, and cumaru are luxury choices when it comes to decking materials. While they do have a decently steep price tag, they are naturally resistant to rotting and insects without the need for chemical treatments. Although they are durable, they are also highly dense, which can make drilling through them difficult. They are also notorious for being difficult to stain and finish. However, without finishing, these woods can turn a silvery color after weathering, so using specially formulated stains can be a must.

3. Redwood

Redwood is another natural wood option that is lightweight but fairly durable. Although it has naturally stunning color, it can also be more difficult -- and expensive -- to get on the east coast. However, maintenance isn't too bad with redwood and yearly power-washing is often all they need. Couple that with a new coat finish every three to four years and your deck should be set to last.

4. Composites

Composite decking is an eco-friendly way to construct your deck. Constructed from wood fiber and recycled plastics, this option is quickly becoming one of the most popular today. Because they are artificially created, they aren't prone to warping, splintering, or insect damage. This makes them a durable option that can last for a long time. However, the downside of this material is that rot can still affect damp places since they are partially composed of wood. This may result in some subtle signs of decay over time, especially in locations that get a lot of rainfall throughout the year.

5. Aluminum

Aluminum decks are rare, but the material does come with a lot of benefits. For instance, because of its composition, it won't rust, warp, rot, or crack. They are also exceptionally easy to clean and maintain, and they don't attract any nasty insects. When compared to options like wood, composite, and plastic lumber, aluminum can be up to four times lighter and nearly three times stronger. Because of this, aluminum decks can be a great investment if you want a long-lasting option. The biggest drawback to this type is its price tag. Aluminum decking can cost upwards of $11 per square foot with some companies charging even more. It also doesn't have the gorgeous colors that wooden options can provide. However, when it comes to convenience and strength, this option is worth thinking about.

Which Option Is Right For You?

Choosing the best option for you will depend on a couple of factors: what style you want, how much maintenance you can provide, how the material will last in your environment, and how much you're willing to spend. By keeping these factors in mind and working with your deck contractor, you will have an easier time deciding which decking material is best for you and your home.