Popular Decking Materials Used in Washington Homes

Outdoor living is a big part of life in Washington. From summer barbecues to quiet evenings under cloudy skies, a deck often becomes an extension of the home. But with frequent rain, moisture, and changing temperatures, choosing the right decking material matters more here than in many other states.

Homeowners in Washington focus on durability, low maintenance, and long-term value. This guide explores the most popular decking materials used across the state, along with their pros, cons, and best use cases.

Why Decking Material Choice Matters in Washington

Washington’s climate is unique.

Key challenges include:

• Frequent rain
  
• High moisture levels
  
• Moss and mildew growth
  
• Temperature swings
  

The wrong decking material can warp, rot, or become slippery in just a few years. The right material can last decades with minimal upkeep.

That is why material selection is one of the most important decisions in any deck project.

Pressure-Treated Wood: A Common Starting Point

Pressure-treated lumber is one of the most widely used decking materials in Washington.

Why Homeowners Choose It

• Affordable compared to other options
  
• Widely available
  
• Resistant to insects and rot
  

This wood is treated with preservatives that help it withstand moisture and soil contact.

Things to Consider

• Requires regular sealing
  
• Can warp or crack over time
  
• Needs ongoing maintenance
  

Many homeowners still choose pressure-treated wood for its balance of cost and performance, especially for large decks or budget-conscious projects.

Cedar Decking: A Pacific Northwest Favorite

Cedar is deeply connected to the Pacific Northwest and remains a popular choice for Washington homes.

Benefits of Cedar

• Naturally resistant to moisture and insects
  
• Lightweight and easy to work with
  
• Attractive grain and color
  

Cedar performs better than many other woods in damp conditions, especially when properly sealed.

Drawbacks

• Higher cost than pressure-treated wood
  
• Softer surface that can dent
  
• Requires periodic maintenance
  

Cedar is often chosen by homeowners who want a natural look and are willing to maintain it.

Composite Decking: Low Maintenance and Long-Lasting

Composite decking has become increasingly popular across Washington in recent years.

Why Composite Works Well

• Resists moisture, rot, and insects
  
• Does not splinter or warp
  
• Requires very little maintenance
  

Composite boards are made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, making them well-suited for wet climates.

Things to Know

• Higher upfront cost
  
• Can get warm in direct sun
  
• Limited natural wood texture
  

Many homeowners rely on deck specialists familiar with Washington’s wet climate to compare options and find the right material.

PVC Decking: Maximum Moisture Resistance

PVC decking contains no wood at all, which makes it one of the most moisture-resistant options available.

Advantages

• Completely waterproof
  
• Highly resistant to mold and mildew
  
• Long lifespan
  

PVC decking performs especially well in areas with constant rain or shade.

Limitations

• Higher price point
  
• Less natural appearance
  
• Can feel less rigid underfoot
  

PVC is often chosen for waterfront homes or areas with poor drainage.

Hardwood Decking: Strong but Selective Use

Some homeowners choose hardwoods like ipe or mahogany for their strength and appearance.

Why Hardwood Appeals

• Extremely durable
  
• Long lifespan
  
• Rich, high-end look
  

Challenges in Washington

• Very expensive
  
• Heavy and difficult to install
  
• Requires regular maintenance
  

Hardwoods can work well in Washington, but they demand careful planning and upkeep.

Aluminum Decking: A Modern Alternative

Aluminum decking is less common but growing in popularity.

Benefits

• Fully resistant to moisture
  
• Fire-resistant
  
• Very long lifespan
  

Downsides

• Industrial appearance
  
• Higher cost
  
• Can be noisy in rain
  

This option suits modern designs and homeowners looking for minimal maintenance.

Slip Resistance: A Key Factor in Wet Climates

In Washington, wet decks are a safety concern.

Materials that offer better traction include:

• Textured composite boards
  
• Grooved PVC decking
  
• Properly finished cedar
  

Smooth surfaces can become slippery, especially with moss or algae growth.

Maintenance Expectations by Material

Different materials require different levels of care.

Higher Maintenance

• Pressure-treated wood
  
• Cedar
  
• Hardwood
  

Lower Maintenance

• Composite
  
• PVC
  
• Aluminum
  

Understanding maintenance needs upfront helps avoid frustration later.

Cost vs Long-Term Value

Initial cost is only part of the equation.

While wood decking may cost less at first, long-term expenses can add up due to:

• Sealing
  
• Repairs
  
• Replacement
  

Low-maintenance materials often provide better long-term value, especially in Washington’s damp environment.

Many homeowners consider advice from a deck installation team who provides coverage for their workmanship when deciding which materials make the most sense for their budget and climate.

Matching Materials to Home Style

The best deck complements the home.

Examples:

• Traditional homes often pair well with cedar
  
• Modern homes suit composite or aluminum
  
• Waterfront homes benefit from PVC
  

Material choice should support both function and style.

Final Thoughts

Washington homeowners have many decking material options, but climate should always guide the decision. Moisture resistance, durability, and maintenance needs matter more here than in drier regions.

From classic cedar to modern composite and PVC, the most popular materials all serve different needs. The best choice depends on budget, design goals, and how much upkeep a homeowner is willing to handle.

A well-chosen decking material not only lasts longer—it makes outdoor living more enjoyable year after year.