How to Choose a Mold-Resistant Decking Material
Do you spend too much money restoring your outdoor deck features every few seasons? Water, mildew, and fungi can wear down the surface of your floorboards and railings, resulting in structural damage. Fortunately, mold-resistant decking products can bring your property back to life with durable and long-lasting materials.
Artisan Outdoor Craftsman can help you discover which wood, plastic, and composite decks in Fishers, IN, are right for you.
Why Mold-Resistant Decking Is a Must
Outdoor decks are vulnerable to weathering, especially in the humid Indiana climate. That is why investing in mold-resistant decking products is essential for saving money and avoiding constant maintenance.
Many modern construction products come with CoolDeck Technology — designed to prevent moisture and pest damage. These materials will not rot, warp, or crack from sudden temperature changes or natural disasters.
Still, choosing the right material for your deck can be confusing without artisan recommendations. It’s best to partner with professionals, like those at Artisan Outdoor Craftsman, to determine which design is right for your aesthetic preferences and budget.
What to Consider When Choosing Types of Mold-Resistant Decking
Mold-resistant decking comes in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Some materials may be more practical than others, depending on your home’s architecture style.
Prefabricated composite decking is the most popular type of mold-resistant material for homeowners in Fishers, IN. However, artisan deck builders can also apply mold-resistant treatments and seals to other materials for optimal effect.
Consider your options below:
Composite Decking
Wood composite boards mimic natural wood textures and colors. However, unlike natural wood, they will not succumb to rot or mold after several years of weather exposure. Manufacturers also design these materials to resist ultraviolet light from the sun, reducing the likelihood of premature color fading.
Composite decking is relatively low-maintenance and can prevent large concentrations of spore buildup. Still, it’s important to scrub your surfaces every few months to prevent mold growth from taking hold over time.
Consider investing in composite wood decking if you want to explore a broad range of color and texture options, such as:
- Riverbank MoistureShield Elevate decking
- Smokey Gray MoistureShield Vision decking
- Shoreside MoistureShield Meridian decking
- Walnut MoistureShield Vantage decking
Expect to pay more upfront for these heavy materials compared to natural wood. It’s wise to calculate your budget before committing to this high-end solution.
PVC Deck Boards
Polyvinyl chloride decking (PVC) is an easy-to-install material that can last up to 30 years with the proper upkeep. These non-porous surfaces will not rust, chip, or stain from rain and mold. Artisan builders can install solid-edge and grooved planks to allow water runoff during storms.
You might want to reinforce your existing deck structure with PVC planks for maximum longevity. A contractor can place them over wood or concrete patios and treat them with additional seals for greater surface traction.
Do you host several outdoor parties and cookouts every year? PVC is a practical mold-resistant decking material that can withstand heavy foot traffic. You can also explore vibrant color options like red or blue to impress guests.
Pressure-Treated Wood Planks
Pressure-treated (PT) wood is an excellent alternative to many of the conventional products on this list. Manufacturers spray chemicals on these materials to deter termites, mold, and other harmful outdoor elements. PT wood can last up to 15 years and is relatively easy to install and replace.
Despite its advantages, you should use caution if you decide to invest in PT wood. For example, you should always use a mask when cutting or repairing this wood to avoid inhaling the factory-applied chemicals.
Also, make sure that your contractor inspects each board before installation. Trapped moisture in the packing may cause a mold outbreak over time, even if the chosen brand markets the product as “mold-resistant.”
Tropical Hardwood
Tropical hardwoods like Cumaru are some of the most dependable decking materials in the world. These robust wood products resist most forms of mold and rot and are thick enough to withstand light impact damage from storms.
Cumaru and Red Balau are highly insulative, meaning they can become very hot in the sun. Consider installing lighter colors to reflect some heat from your deck area.
Remember to hire a deck artisan who has all the tools they need for a successful installation. Unlike thinner wood materials which require nails and hammers, tropical hardwood typically requires power tools and screws for a quality build.
Aluminum Deck Features
Aluminum is a lightweight metal material that many homeowners rely on for deck features like railings and stairs. This mold-resistant decking material will not rust from humidity or rain and may last up to 50 years with the right maintenance.
Consider installing an aluminum deck to complement a modern home aesthetic. You will also support ecological sustainability with an aluminum deck because this material is recyclable and easily transportable.
How to Get the Longest Life From Your Material
Mold remediation is an expensive and time-consuming task. Fortunately, you can avoid these headaches by hiring a professional artisan for your deck installation and repairs. Experienced technicians will prevent gaps between boards that trap moisture.
They can also offer preventive care and cleaning tips, so you can eliminate mold at the first sign of trouble. Try to avoid scrubbing your deck with corrosive cleaners and instead use warm water and wood-safe soaps. Your contractor can outline the best upkeep strategy, depending on the material you choose.
Protect Your New Deck with Artisan Outdoor Craftsman in Fishers, IN
Learning the fundamentals of wood and capped composite decking can help you plan your next outdoor deck renovation with ease. At Artisan Outdoor Craftsman, we are just a phone call away when you need fast and reliable advice. Our deck experts can recommend the right mold-resistant decking material for your property and install it within just a few days.
You can enjoy accurate estimates, world-class communication, and fair pricing on all projects. We will assign a project manager to your installation if you have questions about our deck build process along the way.
Protect your new deck from mold, water, and pests today. Contact Artisan Outdoor Craftsman in Fishers, IN, at (317) 836-2355.
