Are you trying to improve your outdoor space? One way to beautify it and create somewhere to entertain at the same time is to install decking. Before you decide where you're going to install it and what type of design you need, it's worth exploring your options.
Natural Wood
Natural wood comes in a couple of different forms. Softwood is typically low-cost to install, easy to update with new paint or varnish, and has a naturally authentic feel to it. However, it's also prone to splitting and may require more ongoing repairs than other materials. If you're looking for decking that's low maintenance, it's likely not the right option for you. If you still cherish the idea of wood but you're looking for something sturdier, try hardwood instead. Although it may require a little more ongoing maintenance than other types of material, it isn't as prone to disrepair as its soft counterpart.
Composite Decking
Composite decking allows you to achieve all the aesthetic perks of wood, but with fewer ongoing issues. For example, while wood is prone to rot and attracting algae, composite tends to resist rotting and won't develop slippery algae growth quite as often. It's also easy to clean, and doesn't tend to house insects easily. Because of its low-maintenance perks, composite is popular with homeowners of all tastes. It can be particularly advantageous if you need to sell your property later, as you won't be trying to sell it with a feature that requires lots of input from the new owner.
PVC Decking
PVC decking requires hardly any maintenance at all. And in the right hands, you can make it look authentically wood-like, just without the risk of rot and insect infestation. If you envisage installing an outdoor deck that you don't need to spend much time on, PVC may be right for you. Its materials don't allow algae to grow easily, so you won't need to spend much time cleaning it. Additionally, it's easy to brush and wipe clean, so if there are any spillages you won't need to break your back tackling them. However, PVC can contribute to plastic pollution. As such, if you need to get rid of yours at some point, then make sure you recycle it responsibly.
If you're still unsure, discuss your requirements with the decking installation team you choose. After listening to your likes and dislikes, they should be able to recommend an option that best suits your needs.
