Wood remains the most commonly used material for decks today. People are familiar with it and appreciate its affordability. However, more people today are looking at steel as an alternative. Why are they doing so?
Pressure-treated wood has been declining in quality, prompting people to consider alternatives, such as steel deck framing. They want to see a side-by-side comparison of wood and steel to determine which best meets their needs. When they have all the information, they can make an informed choice.
Wood Deck Framing
Wood is not the same quality as it was a few years ago. Contractors frequently complain about it today, as they must deal with warped and cracked boards. Moisture exposure is often the culprit, and wood undergoes shorter growth cycles. The growth rings are wider and lighter, so the wood doesn’t hold up as well. It also doesn’t resist decay like past generations did. Pressure-treated wood typically lasts only seven to ten years, especially when exposed to the elements.
Contractors must plane joints before using them due to their low quality. However, planing might not be even to even the framing material. Joist tape must be applied to reduce the risk of moisture infiltration, which adds to the time required to complete the project and increases labor costs. Nevertheless, wood costs less than steel, making it a good choice for property owners with limited budgets.
When making this determination, property owners must determine how much time they have to devote to maintaining the wood. Insects and mold are concerns with wooden deck frameworks. Owners must be vigilant in monitoring the deck to catch problems early, allowing them to be fixed promptly.
Wood has a Class C fire rating. It can moderately resist fire, but this may not be enough in certain parts of the country. A property owner should consult with the deck builder to determine whether they are at risk of problems with their deck in the event of a fire. When choosing a deck framework material, however, the owner should also consider how this material will complement the home’s architecture. Wood is the ideal choice for farmhouses and other homes with traditional architectural styles.
Steel Deck Framing
Steel is robust and resists moisture absorption, so contractors never need to be concerned about crowning, rotting, or warping. The steel arrives straight and flat, ready for immediate use. Installation takes less time because the crew has fewer tasks to complete. Using steel deck framing systems reduces labor hours by approximately 34 percent. Fewer employees are needed to complete the job, allowing the company to improve its bottom line. Steel costs more at the time of purchase, but it lasts longer than wood. The property owner won’t need to replace the deck as often, which they appreciate. Contractors also enjoy this, as they are not called back to properties as frequently to handle repairs.
Steel is ideal for areas prone to wildfires. Steel will not burn thanks to its Class A fire rating. When an owner chooses a steel deck framework, they help reduce the risk of a ground fire spreading quickly. Not only will the steel framework minimize the risk of fire damaging their home, but it may also protect neighbors’ homes from damage. Furthermore, it complements modern homes nicely.
Every homeowner should evaluate all factors when choosing a deck material. Overlooking even one factor could lead to disappointment with the deck when the project is complete. Homeowners who consider the factors outlined above significantly reduce the risk of this happening.