How to Choose the Right Deck Material for Delaware’s Climate

Business Jan 24, 2025 39 Add to Reading List

When it comes to building a deck in Delaware, choosing the right material is crucial for both the aesthetics and longevity of your outdoor space. With Delaware’s humid summers, rainy seasons, and occasional temperature extremes, the material you select must be able to withstand the state's diverse climate conditions. Understanding the weather and how different materials react to these elements will help you make a better-informed decision when designing your perfect deck.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular deck materials and discuss their advantages and disadvantages in relation to Delaware’s climate. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of which material is best suited for your home.

Why Choosing the Right Deck Material Matters in Delaware’s Climate

Delaware is known for its humid subtropical climate, which means hot, humid summers and mild winters. The state's weather can be quite diverse, experiencing both heavy rain and intense sun exposure. For homeowners looking to install a deck, the material chosen needs to handle this variation in weather while maintaining its aesthetic appeal, durability, and safety.

Choosing the right deck material ensures:

Longevity: The material can withstand frequent exposure to moisture and temperature changes.
Low Maintenance: The material is resistant to rotting, warping, or fading, reducing the need for regular upkeep.
Aesthetic Appeal: The material maintains its look over time despite exposure to Delaware’s elements.

Now, let’s explore the most popular deck materials and how they fare in Delaware’s weather conditions.

1. Wood Decking

Wood is one of the most common deck materials because it offers a natural aesthetic that blends well with the outdoors. However, in Delaware’s humid climate, wood can have its challenges.

Advantages of Wood Decking:

Aesthetic Appeal: Wood offers a natural, rustic look that many homeowners love.
Workability: Wood is easy to work with and can be shaped into custom designs.

Disadvantages of Wood Decking in Delaware:

Susceptibility to Moisture: Wood is prone to warping, rotting, and splintering in humid environments like Delaware.
Regular Maintenance: Wood decks require regular sealing and staining to protect them from moisture and pests.
Fading: Exposure to the sun can cause wood decks to fade over time, affecting their appearance.

Best Types of Wood for Delaware:

If you prefer wood, pressure-treated lumber, cedar, or redwood are great options. These woods are more resistant to moisture and pests but still require regular maintenance to maintain their appearance.

If you’re considering a wood deck for your home, JPM Home Services offers expert guidance on choosing the right wood material based on Delaware’s climate. Call (302) 598-6297 to discuss your wood deck options.

2. Composite Decking

Composite decking has gained popularity in recent years due to its durability and low-maintenance features. Made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, composite decking is resistant to moisture, insects, and fading, making it a great choice for Delaware's climate.

Advantages of Composite Decking:

Low Maintenance: Composite decks don’t require regular staining or sealing like wood decks.
Weather Resistance: Composite materials are not prone to warping, cracking, or splitting under extreme weather conditions.
Durability: The material is designed to withstand rain, humidity, and sun exposure, making it ideal for Delaware’s diverse climate.

Disadvantages of Composite Decking:

Cost: Composite decking is more expensive upfront compared to wood, although it offers long-term savings on maintenance.
Appearance: Some homeowners feel that composite decking doesn’t have the same natural look as wood, though many newer styles mimic the appearance of wood effectively.

For Delaware’s climate, composite decking is often the best option due to its ability to withstand the region's moisture and temperature fluctuations. JPM Home Services specializes in composite deck installations and can help you find the perfect solution for your home. Call (302) 598-6297 for more information.

3. PVC Decking

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking is a synthetic material made entirely of plastic, offering the ultimate in durability and low maintenance. It’s resistant to water, mold, mildew, and pests, which makes it an ideal choice for homeowners in Delaware, especially those who experience a lot of rain.

Advantages of PVC Decking:

Waterproof: PVC decks are completely resistant to water, making them ideal for humid or rainy climates like Delaware.
Low Maintenance: No staining, sealing, or painting is needed with PVC decking.
Highly Durable: PVC decking won’t warp, crack, or splinter over time, even with exposure to rain or humidity.

Disadvantages of PVC Decking:

Heat Retention: PVC can get quite hot under direct sunlight, which may be uncomfortable for some users, especially in the summer months.
Less Natural Look: While PVC decks have come a long way in terms of appearance, they may still lack the natural feel of wood.

If you want a virtually maintenance-free deck that will stand the test of time in Delaware’s climate, PVC decking is an excellent option. For expert installation, call JPM Home Services at (302) 598-6297.

4. Aluminum Decking

While not as common as wood, composite, or PVC, aluminum decking is another durable option for Delaware homeowners. Aluminum decks are resistant to rust, corrosion, and extreme weather conditions, making them a good choice for coastal areas or places that experience heavy rainfall.

Advantages of Aluminum Decking:

Rust and Corrosion Resistant: Aluminum decks won’t rust or corrode, making them an excellent choice for humid or salty air.
Durability: Aluminum is incredibly durable and long-lasting, with little to no maintenance required.
Fire Resistant: Aluminum is non-combustible, making it a safer option for fire-prone areas.

Disadvantages of Aluminum Decking:

Cost: Aluminum decks are typically more expensive than wood or composite options.
Cold to the Touch: Aluminum can feel cold on bare feet during cooler weather, which might be uncomfortable in Delaware’s winter months.

Although aluminum is more of a niche option, its weather-resistant properties make it a strong contender for homeowners looking for a deck that can handle Delaware’s climate. Contact JPM Home Services to learn more about aluminum decking options at (302) 598-6297.

5. Tropical Hardwoods

Tropical hardwoods, such as Ipe, Teak, and Mahogany, are a premium choice for decking. These dense, durable woods are resistant to insects, rot, and decay, which makes them suitable for Delaware’s humid and rainy climate.

Advantages of Tropical Hardwoods:

Durability: Tropical hardwoods are some of the toughest woods available, with excellent resistance to rot and pests.
Aesthetic Appeal: These woods offer a rich, deep color and natural beauty that’s hard to match with other materials.
Sustainability: Many tropical hardwoods are sourced sustainably, making them a good eco-friendly choice.

Disadvantages of Tropical Hardwoods:

Cost: Tropical hardwoods are often the most expensive decking material.
Maintenance: While these woods are durable, they do require periodic maintenance to maintain their appearance, such as oiling or staining.

If you’re interested in premium tropical hardwoods for your deck, JPM Home Services can help you choose the best material for your needs. Call (302) 598-6297 to explore tropical hardwood options.

FAQ: Choosing the Right Deck Material for Delaware’s Climate

1. Which deck material is the most durable in Delaware’s climate?

Composite, PVC, and aluminum decking are the most durable options for Delaware’s humid climate, as they are resistant to moisture, pests, and fading.

2. What deck material requires the least maintenance?

PVC and composite decking require minimal maintenance, as they do not need regular staining or sealing.

3. How do I choose the best material for my budget?

Wood decking is usually the most budget-friendly option, though composite and PVC decking offer long-term value due to their low maintenance needs.

4. Can wood decks still be a good choice in Delaware?

Yes, but they require regular maintenance, such as sealing and staining, to protect them from moisture and humidity.

5. Is PVC decking more expensive than wood?

Yes, PVC decking generally costs more than wood decking, but it offers lower long-term maintenance costs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right deck material for Delaware’s climate is essential for ensuring that your outdoor space remains beautiful, functional, and durable. From the natural appeal of wood to the low-maintenance benefits of composite and PVC decking, there are plenty of options to choose from. For expert advice and professional deck installation, contact JPM Home Services at (302) 598-6297. Let them help you create the perfect outdoor living space for your home in Delaware