Luxury Housing Trends & Home Improvement Ideas

It’s true that wood decks are the norm, and we’ve looked at some beautiful examples (such as this handsome tigerwood deck), but wood does require periodic maintenance to keep it looking good, especially in damp climates such as the Pacific Northwest. Also, if you live near the ocean, wood receives an extra battering from the harsh maritime air.

You can look into composite decking materials that are made to look like wood, or you could try something completely different, such as steel.

A high-tech finishing process will keep steel from rusting, making it virtually maintenance free. Its strength means your deck will hold the entire family for barbecue after barbecue–no worrying about rotting supports or other problems that afflict wood over time. No need to paint or stain it either.

Steel decks are also designed so they don’t heat up under the sun, so no worrying about scorched bare feet. Expect 50-year warranties with this sturdy material.

More information at Xccent Decking (they do steel decks and docks).