🪵 Choosing the Right Wood for Your Deck: What You Need to Know

🪵 Choosing the Right Wood for Your Deck: What You Need to Know

At Just In Time Handyman Service LLC, we know that building a deck is a big investment—and choosing the right material can make all the difference in longevity, appearance, and maintenance.

Here’s a quick breakdown of common wood decking options, including their pros, cons, and price points:

🟩 Pressure-Treated Pine (Southern Yellow Pine 5/4)

✅ Pros:

• Most affordable option
• Treated for resistance to rot and insects
• Readily available

⚠️ Cons:

• Prone to warping, splitting, cupping, and splintering
• Requires regular sealing/staining
• Rougher surface over time

⚠️ No warranty is offered on PT wood due to its tendency to shift and deteriorate over time. This is a natural characteristic of the material and should be expected.

🌲 Cedar Decking

✅ Pros:

• Naturally resistant to rot and insects
• More stable and less likely to warp
• Cooler underfoot in the sun
• Visually appealing with natural color tones

⚠️ Cons:

• More expensive upfront
• Requires occasional maintenance to keep its rich appearance

🧱 Composite Decking (e.g., TREX)

✅ Pros:

• Long-lasting and low-maintenance
• Won’t warp, rot, or splinter
• Many color and texture options
• Often includes manufacturer warranties

⚠️ Cons:

• Higher material cost
• Can get hot underfoot in summer
• Not as natural-looking as wood (but improving)