If you’re deciding on what kind of materials you want to choose for your new deck, consider working with an Azek deck builder like Get Decked. Why? Because we know firsthand the benefits of using premium decking materials that last.

When it comes to building a new deck, choosing the right material is one of the most important decisions you will make. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which deck material is best for your outdoor living space.

In this blog, we will examine the pros and cons of some popular decking materials, including pressure-treated wood, cedar, and standard composite decking, and explain why we believe Azek decking is the ultimate solution. As an Azek deck builder in New Castle DE, we’ve used countless decking materials in the past through trial and error, but have found Azek provides the best long-term solution.

But before we dive into the advantages of Azek decking, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of some other popular decking materials.

Pressure-Treated Wood Decking:

You’ll find that this is a popular type of decking material used time and time again for many homeowners due to its affordability, but it doesn’t mean it’s the best deck material option. Here are some pros and cons to look out for when considering pressure-treated wood decks.

Pros:

- Affordable: pressure-treated wood is a budget-friendly option for deck building.
- Natural look: wood has a warm, natural look that can enhance the beauty of any outdoor space.

Cons:

- Maintenance: To maintain the beauty and structural integrity of the wood, it requires regular maintenance to prevent rot, mold, and insect damage.
- Routine Staining: With a wood deck, regularly staining the deck can help protect the wood. Though, it requires a significant amount of time and effort, which can be a burden for homeowners who prefer a low-maintenance outdoor living space.
- Durability: wood is prone to warping, splitting, and cracking over time, which can shorten its lifespan. Unfortunately, in areas with less sunlight and higher moisture levels, it has a tendency to rot faster as well.

For these reasons, pressure-treated wood may not be the ideal solution for a long-lasting, low maintenance deck. As an Azek deck builder in Delaware, we recommend considering alternative materials that require less maintenance and provide longevity.

Cedar Decking:

As an Azek deck builder, we know the importance of choosing the right decking material for your outdoor living space. Over the years, we’ve found that cedar decking is another popular choice for its natural beauty and rot-resistant properties. Here, we’ll examine the pros and cons of cedar decking to help you determine if it is the right choice for your decking project.

Pros:

- Aesthetic Appeal: Cedar decking has a natural beauty and warm color that adds to the overall aesthetics of your outdoor space.
- Insect Resistant: Since cedar contains natural oils that act as an insect repellent, it makes it more resistant to insect damage.

Cons:

- Cost: Cedar is more expensive than pressure-treated wood decking, and can be even more costly when sourced from a high-quality supplier.
- More Vulnerable: One downside of cedar decking is that it is a softer wood, making it more susceptible to scratches and dents from furniture and pet claws
- Maintenance: Cedar needs to be regularly maintained to preserve its appearance and structural integrity. In order to maintain it, you will need a particular type of sealant to better protect it. But if you’re not ready for this kind of regular maintenance, there are other low-maintenance decking options available

While cedar decking has its benefits, its maintenance requirements and susceptibility to wear and tear make it less than ideal for some homeowners.

Standard Composite Decking

Composite decking is a popular choice for outdoor living spaces due to its durability and low maintenance requirements. However, not all composite decking materials are created equal. As an experienced Azek deck builder, we have seen the pros and cons of different composite decking options.

Pros:

- Low maintenance: Composite decking requires little maintenance compared to wood decking, and doesn’t need to be stained or painted.
- Durability: Composite decking is resistant to warping, rotting, and insect damage, making it a long-lasting option for outdoor spaces.

Cons:

- Not resistant to moisture and mildew when close to the ground.
- Cost: Composite decking is typically more expensive than wood decking options.
- Limited aesthetic options: Composite decking can lack the natural beauty of wood, and can have a uniform look that some homeowners may find less appealing.
- Limited warranty: Standard composite decking typically comes with a limited warranty and can be more challenging to replace.

Now that we’ve examined some other decking materials, let’s dive into why Azek decking is the solution for your outdoor living space.

Azek Decking

Azek decking is a premium material that offers a range of benefits for your custom deck. As an Azek deck builder in Kent County DE, New Castle County DE, Chester County PA, and Montgomery County PA, we have seen firsthand the advantages of using this unique polymer blend decking material.

Pros:

- Durability: Azek decking is engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, resisting fading, scratching, and staining.
- Low maintenance: Azek decking doesn’t require sanding, staining, or sealing like wood decking materials. It is easy to clean and maintain.
- Aesthetics: Azek decking comes in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures that mimic the natural beauty of wood, without the drawbacks.
- Sustainability: Azek decking is made of 63% of recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly option for your outdoor living space.

Cons:

- Cost: Azek decking tends to be more expensive than some other decking materials, but its durability and low maintenance make it a worthwhile investment for homeowners.

As an Azek deck builder, we understand the importance of using high-quality materials that can stand the test of time. Azek decking is a reliable, low maintenance option that can provide you with a beautiful and functional outdoor living space for years to come!

Azek Deck Builder Explains the Unique Advantages of Azek Decking over Standard Composite Materials

While we went over the list of pros and cons, you may be wondering what is the true difference between Azek decking versus other composite materials. The main difference between Azek decking and other standard composite deck materials is that Azek decking is made from a unique polymer blend, while other composite decking is typically made from a combination of wood fiber and plastic. This unique polymer blend in Azek decking makes it highly resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and also gives it a more natural look and feel. Additionally, Azek decking is engineered to be more durable and low-maintenance than other composite decking options, making it a popular choice for homeowners who prioritize both aesthetics and practicality in their outdoor living spaces.

Work With a Reliable Azek Deck Builder –Get Decked!

When it comes to choosing the right decking material for your outdoor living space, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option. While pressure-treated wood, cedar, and composite decking all have their advantages, Azek decking stands out as a durable, low maintenance, and eco-friendly option that can provide long-lasting beauty and functionality to your outdoor space.

If you are looking for a deck builder in Chester County PA, Montgomery County PA, New Castle County DE, or Kent County De, consider working with Get Decked! At Get Decked, we are a family-owned deck company with the expertise and experience to bring your outdoor living space to life. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service, we are dedicated to ensuring your complete satisfaction with your new deck.

What Customers Are Saying

Hal and Rachelle H.

We absolutely love our brand new screened in deck. The craftsmanship and the quality of the materials you all used are superior. I had no idea our house would be transformed so much. We feel like we do when we’re at the beach. We eat as many meals as we can outside. My teenage children take naps outside. My dog even has his bowl outside! Get Decked was an absolute pleasure to do business with. There were no hidden fees. The schedule was kept perfectly and the job was done immaculately. We have lived in our house for 25 years…

Anne C.

Dear Mike, Connie & Family,I cannot thank all of you enough. From the moment I first met you, I knew how passionate you were about delivering an outstanding product. I am sitting on my new deck now, as I write this note. I am confident that my new deck will bring many years of joy. It is perfect & gorgeous. You are all awesome & I hope that you will be here for my summer BBQ. Fondly,Anne C.

Patty D, Delaware

“Get Decked” just finished my deck this afternoon. It is beautiful and was constructed with true craftsmanship and detail. In my opinion…all I have to say is that if you need a deck and don’t seriously consider this company, you are making a huge mistake. At least talk to them. . give them a call. My deck was a little under $10,000.00 dollars…and it is exactly what I wanted. Dealing with numerous contractors over many many years, I was thoroughly impressed with the way they do business. This will probably be hard to believe, but I have interviewed over 20…

Paul Davis, Newark, DE

Dear Get Decked Crew,After consulting with several contractors and looking at projects from each one, I contracted with Get Decked to build my deck in Academy Hill, Newark, DE. I was quite impressed with the quality of your work and the integrity of your crew during the planning and building process. That was nearly 10 years ago. This past summer it came to my attention that the stair support stringers had rotten sections due to what appeared to be insect damage. I contacted Get Decked and explained the problem to Connie. I was greeted with the same superior service that…

Candy Koons, Pottstown PA

This was my second experience with Get Decked. Sixteen years ago they built a 12×20′ cedar deck on my home, When I decided to replace it with a low maintenance Azek deck this year, I did not even consider another contractor. I knew they used high quality materials, completed the job quickly, charged exactly what they estimated, and had a strong work ethic. Because of this, I did not feel it was necessary to meet them to discuss the second deck. All selections were made via email saving us both time. Both decks were completed exactly as I wanted in…

Scott and Marianne

When we decided to replace our existing deck, we searched for a company that would assist us from design to construction. They had to be able to help us design a deck whereby we could achieve the most deck given code restrictions, provide quality craftsmanship, and handle any installation issues that may arise. We knew finding a company with the experience and craftsmanship to accomplish this would probably not be the cheapest. We know from experience, however, that cheap often leaves one dissatisfied with the results. We appreciate the personal attention given to this project. You helped us with the…

Gail Griffin from Downingtown, PA

The Get Decked team is awesome! They know their stuff when it comes to decks. I wanted a deck but had no idea where to start or what options were available to me. Mike and Connie gave us a bunch of information and recommendations based on our needs and budget. They had answers to all of our questions, and were willing to meet with us as much as we needed to go over design details. They were honest with their opinions on what would work and what wouldn’t work, and they worked to stay within our budget. They were quickly…

Bob and Donna Macheski from Bear, DE

Connie and Mike – thank you so very much for the beautiful deck that you provided to us and also for the extra work you did to put the decking on the ramp to our tool shed with the spare decking. You guys always go above and beyond the customer expectations. We received a beautiful floral arrangement yesterday and it was greatly appreciated. I can’t say enough about the quality workmanship and the people that you have working for you – they are all very talented and respectful people. We need more folks like you providing quality services to the…

Steve Johnson from Bear, DE

What a great experience having Mike and his crew build our deck and screen room for us. The process was simple for us. Mike and his son came to our home to discuss what we had in mind from the floor colors to the roof on our screen room. Every detail was taken care of by Mike and Connie from permits, materials, and finally the building of our deck. Finally after a week of hard work on their part we have a gorgeous deck and screen room. I know we will get years of pleasure out of our new deck.…

Lauren, Greg, and Moose Wilkinson from Middletown, DE

Mike, Connie, the Jerminski family, and Get Decked crew – We cannot thank you enough for our beautiful deck! The whole process was top notch – from Mike and Connie coming out to do sketches/measurements/show us samples, to starting a week and a half after contract, to finishing in 4 days! And the craftsmanship and attention to detail on the deck is impeccable! We want to thank you so much for everything including the dog toy for moose and the flowers!!!! Get Decked came HIGHLY recommended and lived up to our expectations! If we decide to add a roof covering…

Ronald and Silvia Hutchison

Mike and Connie,We want to thank you for what has been an excellent experience. The deck is beautiful and we love it. The quality of construction, the attention to detail, and the finish work is world class. You have exceeded our expectations. Again thank you for everything.

Paul Tiernan, Newark, DE.

We would be glad to be a reference. We love our deck and the great job you guys did.

The Epp Family, West Chester, PA

Every time we look outside to our beautiful new deck, we are reminded of the wonderful experience we had with all the folks of Get Decked! It serves as a constant reminder to us that there really are good people in this world, that you can indeed have a job done by folks who care, not only about the outcome, but about the entire process. Mike, who set the pace for the entire Get Decked crew, is a master carpenter and perfectionist. It was evident each day that he had “done his homework” the night before; he had everything ready…

Carol Scanlon

Dear Michael,Sorry it took so long to write how thrilled I am with the deck you built for me. I could not be happier with the design and workmanship of my new deck. I could have easily checked all of the above listed attributes if the system allowed. I hold Mr. Jerminski in high regard and give him superior recommendation. Service Category: Deck BuilderYear Hired: 2013Top Qualities, Great Results, Good Value, High Integrity

Susan Stephenson

I have to say that you and your husband are probably two of the nicest people I’ve ever worked with and the fact that you build very beautiful decks is icing on the cake! You did it so quickly and with such skill I’m still amazed…I’m so glad I read your ad in the Sunday paper and decided to give you a call :>) Thank you again! I have shown pictures to my family and friends and the first word they say is “WOW!!!” and then “It’s BEAUTIFUL!!!” (I think they remember the monstrosity of a deck that used to…

The Stapletons, Newark, DE

Mike and Connie,Thank you so very much for the superb craftsmanship. But more importantly for the opportunity to meet you both. You obviously have a passion for your work. You are warm and friendly, that made it writing the checks for he deck not difficult. Especially knowing they were going to you. Thank you again. We will definitely contact you in the future when the need and/or finances present themselves.

Dave and Karen Halliday, Middletown, DE

Dear Connie and Mike, Our apologies for not getting back to you sooner. We would like to thank you for our awesome screen room! Your recommendations, attention to detail and quality workmanship are most appreciated. We only wish it were warmer to truly enjoy it. We would also like to thank you for your understanding and sensitivity during the loss of our baby grandson. Looking forward to many nights on the porch knowing that a special star is shining upon us. Can’t thank you enough for such a thoughtful tribute. Happy holidays to you and your family. Sincerely,Dave and Karen…

Gene and Dee Windsor, Newark, DE

Dear Connie & Mike,We love our new deck and porch! Your workmanship is just exceptional! Due to an early spring (perfect timing), we’ve been able to spend quite a bit of time out there. We are kicking ourselves for not doing this years ago! Thank you also for the very special memory of Phyllis. She is in my thoughts every day. Hope our paths cross again!

Tim and Tracey Sommers

“If it seems to be too good to be true, it probably is.” How many of us have found that saying to be true? Well, let us just say, Get Decked has proven that they are the true exception for that saying. Back in the spring of 2011 we had two other deck companies come out and give us estimates to redo our two story level deck using Azek decking. Both company’s quotes were for keeping the old deck support posts and joists, and simply installing new flooring and railing. My husband and I were not thrilled with the prospect…

Loc N. Dao R.Ph, MBA

GetDecked is an amazing family-run establishment to do business with. From day one my husband and I were very impressed with their professionalism. We live in an area where it is difficult to get permits approved by the township and GetDecked worked directly with them to ensure that the project would get approved. The timeline for completion of our deck was precise and to our delight was actually completed 1 day early! The GetDecked crew arrived to the job site everyday on-time and after each day of work cleaned up after themselves. Overall, the experience we had with GetDecked was…

Barbara J. Pawelski Newark, DE

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Jerminski:Our deck is wonderful and we are very thankful that we chose your company. The minor issues we had were addressed in a timely fashion and the workers you sent to fix the problems were efficient, pleasant and very professional. The problems we had with New Castle County inspectors not agreeing on the construction restraints (extra support piers) was a real nuisance and again your company rose to the highest level of customer satisfaction. Get Decked went beyond the normal acceptable building code and did the job to the complete satisfaction of New Castle County Inspection…

Rachel and Dave Stolzenberg

Thank you very much for your outstanding customer service and quality craftsmanship! We love our new AZEK deck and appreciate all of the time you spent helping us meet the requirements of our Homeowner’s Association. It is clear that you have deck building down to a science. We couldn’t believe the efficiency with which our deck was built. Thank you very much for your hard work. We look forward to enjoying our deck for many years to come! We would highly recommend Get Decked to anyone.

David & Christine Newton

Hey guys… Even though it’s November, we are sooo glad we had our deck built. We’re out there all weekend now, (and now with the fire pit) all night too! The quality is beyond belief; my neighbors have all made comments. We finished the landscaping we talked to you about, and now it looks like it was built with the house! We got several estimates, and we’re so relieved we didn’t go with the low-baller. Mike got it right away. He didn’t try to over-sell us. We told him what we wanted; he gave us a fair price right there…

The Pros and Cons of Decking Materials: Why Azek is the Solution

Pressure-Treated Wood Decking:

Pros:

Cons:

Cedar Decking:

Pros:

Cons:

Standard Composite Decking

Pros:

Cons:

Azek Decking

Pros:

Cons:

Azek Deck Builder Explains the Unique Advantages of Azek Decking over Standard Composite Materials

Work With a Reliable Azek Deck Builder –Get Decked!

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What Customers Are Saying