HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT DECKING MATERIAL FOR YOUR HOME

Admin • January 31, 2023

Decks can be a great addition to your home, providing an outdoor space to entertain guests, relax with family, or to just enjoy some time outdoors. When deciding on decking material, there are many options available; wood, PVC and composite are the most common materials used. However, choosing the right material for you can be difficult as each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a look at what these materials have to offer so you can make the best decision for your home.


Wood decks are a classic choice that has been around for centuries, offering a warm and natural look. Wood decks can be made from various types of wood such as cedar and redwood which are naturally resistant to rot, decay and insect damage. They require regular maintenance including staining or painting every few years to keep them looking their best. Wood decks also need to be sealed regularly in order to protect them from moisture which can cause warping or cracking over time. Despite these drawbacks, wood is still one of the most popular decking materials due to its attractive appearance and natural durability.


PVC decking features an innovative blend of PVC and recycled wood fibers, making it an unusually durable and low-maintenance choice when it comes to decks that require only occasional cleaning or resealing. The material resists staining, fading, and cracking, while providing an undeniably beautiful aesthetic choice for outdoor living spaces that are sure to last. For decks that bring beauty and durability to your outdoor living space, S&S Design Build recommends high-quality PVC decking.


Composite decks are made from a mixture of wood fibers and recycled plastic materials. This combination makes it more durable than wood while also being low maintenance since they don't require any staining or sealing like traditional wood decks do. Composite decks are also resistant to fading or chipping over time and provide an excellent non-slip surface making them safe for children and pets alike. While they may cost slightly more than wooden decks up front, they will save you money in the long run due to their low-maintenance requirements.


In conclusion, when selecting a decking material for your home there's no one size fits all solution; it really depends on your budget and preferences as each material has its own pros & cons depending on what type of look & feel you're going for in your space. Whichever material you choose, make sure that it meets both your aesthetic needs as well as practical ones; this way you'll be able to enjoy your new outdoor living space for years to come!

Signs to Keep a Look Out for to Know When It’s Time for a Deck Replacement | S&S Design Build

September 12, 2025
As your deck ages, it's important to remain aware of the warning signs that could signify an imminent need for a replacement. Think rotting wood and mold growth, structural cracks in joists or posts—all potential health and safety risks you'll want to avoid! Refreshing yourself on these indicators can help maintain the integrity of your home. Keep vigilant watch over those tell-tale signs - they may be difficult to spot but knowing them will keep both you and your structure safe. Signs That Your Deck Needs Replacing Visible Rot or Mold - If you notice any soft, spongy spots on the wood or see discoloration from mold or mildew, then it’s likely that those areas have begun to rot due to prolonged exposure to moisture and heat. If left unchecked, this issue could cause serious structural damage over time. Structural Cracks or Splitting - As wooden decks age, they can become weak and brittle due to weathering and other environmental factors. As such, if you start noticing cracks in the wood that weren't there before or splitting along the boards, then it may be time for a replacement deck as these issues can cause further damage down the line if they aren't addressed immediately. Warping - Warping is one of the most obvious signs that your deck needs replacing—and unfortunately also one of the most common ones too! Warping occurs when boards become misshapen due to exposure to sunlight and water over time; this issue can cause uneven footing on your deck which could potentially lead to accidents like falls or slips if someone steps in an area with more give than normal. Inadequate Support - The support beams underneath your deck are essential in ensuring its structural integrity; without them, your deck could collapse under its own weight! If you notice any sagging spots on your floorboards or hear creaking noises when walking across them (especially during periods of high humidity), then these are both clear indicators that either additional support beams need to be added or that an entire replacement may be necessary instead depending on how bad the situation is. When it comes to home improvement, knowing the warning signs of when a deck is in need of replacing can be essential for both keeping your family safe and avoiding costly repairs later on. Put simply: investing now in a new, high-quality deck from us here at S&S Design Build LLC could save you money down the road! Don't hesitate to contact our team today—our decks are made with lasting quality, so you won’t have to worry about them again any time soon.

Why S&S Design Build Chooses PVC Decking for Beautiful, Lasting Outdoor Spaces

August 15, 2025
At S&S Design Build, we specialize in crafting stunning outdoor living spaces using the very best materials—like PVC decking. Why PVC, you ask? Here's why we love it and why you will too: ✔ Durability: PVC decking withstands heavy rain, snow, and other harsh weather conditions better than traditional wood or composite options. ✔ Low Maintenance: A quick wash with soap and water every few months keeps it looking brand-new—no staining or sealing required! ✔ Safety First: PVC's slip-resistant and splinter-free surface makes it ideal for families with kids or pets. ✔ Long-Lasting Beauty: Resistant to fading and rot, your deck will maintain its vibrant look for years to come. ✔ Affordable Excellence: Enjoy all these benefits without breaking the bank, thanks to our competitive pricing. If durability, style, and value matter to you, S&S Design Build is ready to create your dream outdoor living space!  Contact us today and discover how we can bring your vision to life.