How to Choose the Right Deck Material for Your River Falls Home
Introduction
Imagine this: You and your family are looking forward to summer evenings on your deck—grilling, relaxing, enjoying the river breezes in River Falls. But every spring, the deck boards warp, splinter, or fade, and the maintenance feels overwhelming.
What if you could choose a deck material that looks great, lasts longer, and handles Wisconsin’s weather with fewer headaches?
This guide walks you through the most common deck materials, explains their pros and cons, and shows you exactly what to consider when planning your next deck project. By the end, you’ll know what works best for River Falls homes and have a clear path toward a deck that matches your lifestyle and expectations.
What Makes a Good Deck Material
When it comes to decking, the material you choose affects appearance, durability, maintenance, and cost. Here are the most common options and how they hold up in Wisconsin’s freeze-thaw climate:
Pressure-Treated Wood
This is the most affordable option and the most widely used. It is chemically treated to resist rot and insect damage.
- Pros: Budget-friendly, easy to find, easy to cut and modify, classic natural wood look
- Cons: Requires yearly sealing or staining, prone to warping or splintering, shorter lifespan
Cedar or Redwood
Naturally beautiful and naturally rot-resistant, these woods are a step up from pressure-treated lumber.
- Pros: Warm, rich color, naturally insect-resistant, smells great, more durable than basic treated wood
- Cons: More expensive, still needs regular maintenance, can dent and fade over time
Composite Decking
Made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastic, composite decking is designed to be low-maintenance.
- Pros: Long lifespan, resistant to rot, pests, and splinters, wide variety of colors and styles, minimal upkeep
- Cons: Higher upfront cost, can expand/contract with temperature changes, may fade slightly
PVC or 100% Synthetic
These boards are made entirely from plastic and are virtually maintenance-free.
- Pros: Excellent resistance to moisture and rot, very low maintenance, color holds well over time
- Cons: Most expensive option, can get hot in the sun, sometimes looks less like natural wood
How to Decide: Step-by-Step Guide
Choosing the right deck material requires balancing cost, style, maintenance, and climate. Follow these steps to make the best decision for your home.
Step 1: Assess Your Climate and Exposure
Think about whether your deck will be in full sun, partially shaded, or exposed to extra moisture. In River Falls, snow loads, ice, and freezing temperatures are major factors that can shorten the life of cheaper materials.
Step 2: Decide How Much Maintenance You Want
Wood requires regular cleaning, staining, and sealing. If you want something low-maintenance, consider composite or PVC.
Step 3: Set Your Budget
Wood is usually the cheapest upfront. Composite is more expensive, and PVC is the priciest. But consider long-term costs—synthetic materials often save money over time by reducing repairs and upkeep.
Step 4: Prioritize Style and Appearance
Wood offers a classic look with natural grain. Composite and PVC provide a consistent, modern appearance and come in a wide range of colors to complement your home.
Step 5: Check Local Codes and Permits
Before building, make sure your deck meets local building codes in River Falls. These ensure your deck is safe and built to handle snow loads and weather conditions.
Step 6: Look at Durability and Warranty
Choose materials with good warranties for structural integrity, fading, and staining. This will protect your investment long term.
Step 7: Consider Environmental Impact
If sustainability matters to you, choose FSC-certified wood or composite boards made from recycled materials.
What deck material lasts longest in Wisconsin weather?
Composite or PVC decking generally lasts the longest, often 25 years or more with minimal maintenance.
Is composite decking cheaper in the long run?
Yes. While it costs more upfront, composite saves money by reducing the need for sealing, staining, and replacing damaged boards.
Can I still use treated wood if I maintain it properly?
Absolutely. With consistent sealing and care, treated wood can last a long time—but expect more hands-on upkeep.
Will PVC decking get hot in the sun?
Yes, especially in darker colors. Choosing a lighter shade helps keep the surface cooler and more comfortable
What is capped composite and why choose it?
Capped composite has a protective outer layer that resists moisture, stains, and fading—making it ideal for River Falls’ changing seasons.
FAQs
Conclusion
Choosing the right deck material for your River Falls home comes down to balancing cost, appearance, maintenance needs, and climate. Wood is affordable and classic, but requires regular care. Composite and PVC cost more upfront but offer long-term savings and durability.
If you’re ready to plan your deck project, reach out to Do It All Handyman. We specialize in decks, remodeling, and home improvement projects across River Falls and surrounding communities—and we’ll help you choose the perfect material for your home.
