Decking / Lumber

Framing Lumber

Most framing is done with pressure treated lumber, due to its combination of workability, low cost, and strength. Other options for framing include Redwood, structural plastic lumber, steel, or steel reinforced cement.

Decking

When it comes to deciding what type of decking to use, there are three main material types to consider: pressure treated lumber, high-end woods (e.g. redwood, cedar, ipe), and wood alternatives (plastic, plastic, aluminum, stone, cement). Pressure treated lumber is the least expensive, but requires more maintenance, has less geometric stability, and has a shorter lifespan. High-end woods cost more, have better geometric stability, and a longer lifespan. Wood alternatives, which include plastic, aluminum, stone, and concrete, also have a higer cost, but have the lowest maintenance requirements, offer long term (20+ year) warranties, and probably have the longest lifespan.