When the weather warms up, homeowners find their thoughts turning to how best to enjoy outdoor living. A warm, inviting deck appeals to families and guests, offering comfortable outdoor fun that is hard to beat. A new deck broadens the space you have for entertaining, cooking and relaxing, and can add value to your home for years.
Our team gets many questions about what deck materials are best for Minnesota homes. What you use to build your deck can impact your budget, comfort, features, upkeep and more. Here’s what you need to know as you consider what deck material is ideal for your dreams of luxurious outdoor living.
Begin Deck Installation Planning by Asking the Right Questions
As you research the best deck material for your home, there are several things to ask yourself:
What do you desire from a new deck — space to entertain, a private oasis, etc.?
Do you desire a high-end design that pulls out all the stops?
Do you prefer a functional deck that fits into a modest budget?
Are there special deck features you have your heart set on, such as a brick oven or built-in furniture?
How much maintenance are you willing to invest in ongoing upkeep?
Do you need repairs to an existing deck, a deck replacement, or a brand-new deck installation? If you’re not sure whether your existing deck is in good shape, inspect it for common deck hazards.
Our Handy Checklist Can Help
It’s worth taking the time to assess what you need before you begin designing your deck. This list of questions to ask yourself before building a deck will help you narrow down your goals so you can choose the best deck material and design for your lifestyle.
While homeowners have several decking materials to consider, Iron River Construction primarily builds decks using composite decking. We rarely install wood decking and do not install concrete, anodized aluminum, or fiberglass decks. Our team can help you choose a durable, low-maintenance composite option that fits your home, style, and budget.
Common Deck Materials to Consider
Homeowners today have several appealing choices for their deck installation. To help you make your decision, here’s a closer look at common materials available to Minnesota homeowners.
Composite Decking
Composite decking can mimic the look of wood without the maintenance natural wood requires. Available in laminate, plastic, and vinyl options, composite decking is a popular choice. At Iron River Construction, composite decking is our preferred material for Minnesota homes because it stands up to harsh weather, requires less maintenance, and keeps its appearance longer than traditional wood.
Benefits
Lightweight
Doesn’t splinter
Environmentally friendly
Affordable
Lasts 10-25 years
Adaptable to any architectural style—Craftsman, Arts & Crafts, Bungalow, Mission, Tudor and more
Homeowners we’ve worked with in the Twin Cities area love the natural look and benefits of composite decking. When you want high-performing, sustainable decking material, then composite would be the best choice.
Wood Decks
Classic, traditional, naturally beautiful — wood is an attractive option for a new deck. There are many types of wood to choose from, depending on the look, quality, and budget you have in mind.
Redwood — Attractive and affordable, redwood looks gorgeous, but can tend to scratch and fade.
Cedar — Cedar is a distinct investment. It fades over time but also is easy to restain. On average, it lasts around 20 years.
Pressure-treated pine — With its classic, bright appearance, pine lasts 10-15 years.
Mahogany — This hardwood is highly prized and not always easy to obtain. Its robust red shade offers eye-catching beauty.
Bamboo — Bamboo stalks replenish quickly after being cut down, making it an eco-friendly decking material.
Ipe — This Brazilian hardwood is prized for its rich color. It’s resistant to scratches, and lasts 30-75 years.
Benefits
Traditionally beautiful
Can be restained to create a fresh look
Cons
Needs regular maintenance to protect from weather and rot
Can attract termites and other pests
Wood can crack and warp, causing splinters
Costly board replacement
Certain wood surfaces can become very slick with frosty mornings
Anodized Aluminum Decks
A modern choice, aluminum can be very appealing as decking material. It looks great with contemporary architectural styles, is virtually maintenance-free, and runs a budget-friendly $6-15 per square foot.
Benefits
Doesn’t rust or rot
Resists mold and mildew
Stays cool in hot temperatures
Textured surface adds traction for secure walking
Cons
Corrodes when exposed to saltwater
Not ideal for beachfront and coastal homes
Fiberglass Decks
This modern manmade material is used in a variety of home exterior designs, from siding and doors to windows and more. When used for a deck, fiberglass offers unique aspects that homeowners appreciate.
Benefits
Highly weather resistant
Doesn’t rot or corrode
Long-lasting
Available in attractive looks
Ideal for roof decks and coastal homes
Cons
Can be pricier than other options
Requires expert deck installation (it’s not a DIY material)
Cement/Concrete Decks
For homeowners who desire durability and are conscious of their budget, cement and concrete decks are appealing. And this option can be more stylish than you might expect.
Benefits
Very affordable
Withstands harsh weather
Can be tinted or stamped for a unique decorative appearance
Once you have decided on what you want in a deck, it’s time to choose a deck builder. Here are a few tips to help you narrow down your selection.
Reputation — Find out what others say about the deck builders you’re considering. Online reviews, friends, neighbors, Angie’s List and the BBB all are helpful sources.
Expertise — Look for home contractors with experience working with homes like yours. Find out if they have won awards or obtained other notable achievements.
Customer service — Consult with 3-5 deck builders and consider what they’ll be like to work with. How well do they explain your options? Do they respond quickly to you? Do they show up on time?
Enjoy a Beautiful Deck for Years to Come
Iron River Construction is here to help you craft the deck of your dreams. Check out our deck gallery page for ideas, and set an appointment for a free consultation.
