Return to the Porches & Decks Forum | Post a Follow-Up

 o
final choices on deck materials

Posted by dsommerl (My Page) on
Mon, Apr 5, 10 at 11:40

I am re-doing an existing cedar deck---the skelaton--infrastructure is wolmanized lumber and in great shape.
I have my contractor secured--here's where I am with some questions

House is all white (painted redwood siding and wood trim)

Want to make the deck look like an estension of the house (vs a "pasted on" cedar structure as now.)

Decking is to be cedar
I have read too many bad things about the synthetic decking materials---which ever brand. My research tells me that cedar--despite the need to clean and seal every couple of yrs is really not any more maintenance that synthetics which also need periodic cleaning--plus a cedar wood deck can be made to look new (can sand out any stains---etc etc). Contractor agrees with my assessment

Trim--railing--skir boards lattice etc are to be white (to make this thing look like an extension of the house). Plus I want as maintenace free as possible--railing and trim boards
QUESTION---This is where I'm confused---Contractor is advocating Timbertech radiance railing---but I'm reading that the PVC/cellular material is maybe superior--longer lasting--easier to clean etc. my understanding is the Timbertech is composite. I think Aztec offers PVC--
Which is the better "look" (most like wood)--how about maintenance and longevity?
QUESTION---then there is an option to go with aluminum powercoated---metal type material for the railings. Would this be a better alternative--(easier maintenance--longer lasting?? BUT---what material (white color) would then match best in appearance to a metal railing system?

AGain---natural cedar decking--and everything else white.
WHAT are my best combination/s of materials Any brand recommendations would also be appreciated.

Thanks


Follow-Up Postings:

 o Post a Follow-Up

Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum.

    If you are a member, please log in.

    If you aren't yet a member, join now!


Return to the Porches & Decks Forum

Instructions

  • You must be a registered member and logged in to post messages on our forums.
  • Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review the contents and make changes.
  • After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
  • It is illegal to post copyrighted material without the owner's consent.
  • HTML codes are allowed in the message field only.
  • No advertising is allowed in any of the forums.
  • If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
  • If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.



 
Click here to learn more about in-text links on this page.