Types of Decking: Which One Is Right for Your Home?
Thinking about adding a deck to your home in Middle Tennessee? Whether you're planning a wraparound porch in Franklin, a backyard hangout in Spring Hill, or a rooftop space in Nashville—choosing the right decking material is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make.
At Vision Construction, we’ve worked with every type of decking out there. Here’s a no-fluff comparison of your main options to help you pick the best one for your budget, style, and lifestyle.
🌲 1. Pressure-Treated Wood
Best for: Homeowners looking for a classic look at an affordable price.
Pros:
Budget-friendly upfront
Widely available and familiar to most builders
Can be stained or painted any color
Cons:
Requires yearly maintenance (cleaning, staining, sealing)
Prone to warping, cracking, and splinters over time
Shorter lifespan compared to composite or hardwood
✅ Tennessee Tip: Good option for short-term use or if you’re planning to move soon and want outdoor appeal without a big investment.
🪵 2. Cedar or Redwood
Best for: Homeowners who want the look and feel of real wood—but with less upkeep than pressure-treated.
Pros:
Naturally resistant to rot and insects
Rich, beautiful natural grain
Cooler underfoot in the summer
Cons:
More expensive than pressure-treated
Still requires sealing or staining every 2–3 years
Not always easy to source locally in Tennessee
💡 If you love the look of natural wood and don’t mind a little maintenance, cedar offers a higher-end feel with fewer headaches.
🧱 3. Composite Decking (Trex, TimberTech, etc.)
Best for: Busy families or low-maintenance homeowners who want long-lasting performance.
Pros:
No staining, sealing, or painting required
Won’t splinter, crack, or warp
Many color and texture options (including wood-look finishes)
Often backed by 25+ year warranties
Cons:
Higher upfront cost
Can get warm in direct sunlight
May require special installation practices
🔧 Worth It? Yes—especially if you plan to stay in your home long-term. Composite decks are an investment in durability and curb appeal.
🌳 4. Hardwood (Ipe, Mahogany, Tigerwood)
Best for: High-end builds or custom decks where aesthetics are a top priority.
Pros:
Extremely durable and long-lasting (25–50 years with proper care)
Rich, luxurious appearance
Naturally resistant to decay, rot, and insects
Cons:
Very expensive material and labor
Heavy and more difficult to install
Needs oiling or UV protection to maintain color
🛠️ Pro Tip: We typically only recommend hardwoods for custom, luxury decks due to their cost and maintenance requirements.
♻️ 5. PVC or Vinyl Decking
Best for: Maximum weather resistance and low maintenance in hot, humid climates like Tennessee.
Pros:
100% waterproof and mold-resistant
Easy to clean (just hose it off!)
Won’t fade, crack, or stain
Cons:
Can feel “plastic-like” underfoot
Fewer color and texture options than composite
Higher cost than wood, similar to composite
🌧️ Ideal for lake homes or poolside decks where water exposure is constant.
🛠️ Ready to Build Your Dream Deck?
At Vision Construction, we don’t just build decks—we help you create an outdoor living space that fits your style, budget, and long-term plans.
From custom designs to trusted materials and local permitting in Franklin, Brentwood, and beyond—we handle it all.
➡️ Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s start planning your perfect outdoor space.
