        
 
   |  | At American Dream Decks, we recognize that Decking can be very confusing, particularly when you are trying to decide what materials to use for your project. To aid you in this process, here is a brief description of different materials that can be used for your "dream deck" -- including both the benefits as well as drawbacks of each.
ACQ
ACQ is the least expensive decking available. It is a sturdy material and termites do not prefer it, which is an added benefit. However, it takes the most maintance of all the woods as it needs staining and powerwashing at least once every 2 years. It also splinters easier--so if you have children and don't want a lot of maintenance it would not be the best choice.
- Pricing: Least Expensive
- Benefits: Low Cost; Termites don't prefer it
- Drawbacks: Splinters easier; Maintenance is high.
CEDAR
Cedar is a beautiful golden wood! It looks beautiful after staining. Cedar has to be powerwashed and stained every few years to keep its luster. It is a soft wood, so you must remember if you have pets that might scratch the wood it may not be your best choice. However, for certain homes, Cedar is an excellent choice. The investment is about 20% more than ACQ.
- Pricing: About 20% more than ACQ
- Benefits: Lighter maintenance, beautiful, soft wood, very visually appealing.
- Drawbacks: Scratches easier, so potentially not good for pets.
MANGARIS
Mangaris is the trademark of the top quality premium hardwood decking line, which is manufactured from all clear heart premium grade selection of Red Balau and Yellow Balau. Produced from a genuine hardwood, MANGARIS(TM) offers the homeowner a 20 year warranty against rot and decay. It doesn't scratch like Cedar and has a beautiful warmth to it. It is about 25% more then Cedar...however, with the 20 year warranty many people choose to go with Mangaris. This is definitely one of our favorites! Please visit here for more information!
- Pricing: About 25% more than Cedar
- Benefits: 20 year warranty. Top quality deckling line.
- Drawbacks: Somewhat more expensive...
COMPOSITE
Composite is a wood and plastic combination. Composite is probably the fastest growing material for decking. There is never a need to stain this kind of decking. The only maintance needed is a good spray of the gardne hose, or for an extremely dirty deck a powerwash. This will keep your deck looking great with not much effort. Composite is for people that choose to enjoy their deck and not worry about working on it too much! There are many different composites to choose from. Check out our links to pick your favorite decking material.
- Pricing: About 30% more than Cedar
- Benefits: Light maintenance, only needs spraying.
- Drawbacks: Somewhat more expensive.
If you have any questions about Decking that aren't answered here, please don't hesitate to contact us! We want to help you make the best choice--for your lifestyle and budget--so you truly have an "American Dream Deck!" | |
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