There are many kinds of decks for many different uses, but the one thing they all have in common is they are kept outside, which means that they are exposed to all sorts of damaging elements. After all, one of nature’s most important duties is to break things down into their basic elements so they can be recycled. The last thing you want is a biodegradable deck. Surprisingly, the most efficient biodegrader in nature’s arsenal is water, so the longest-lasting decking is the most waterproof decking.

Wood Waterproof Decking

Wood is one of those natural, and therefore biodegradable, materials. Although some treated wood products can survive contact with the soil for years, it’s better if concrete or other durable material is used for the foundation of the deck. Wood should be treated to protect it from insect and sun damage and then sealed to provide a waterproof decking surface. Water sealer should be reapplied about every three years.

To restore an existing wood deck, make sure that all molds, moss, and other natural vegetable matter is removed from direct contact with the wood surface. Full strength bleach or a treatment product containing bleach should be used before applying treatment and water sealer. If you have containers for growing flowers and herbs on your wood deck, check for wood rot around the drainage areas.

Waterproof Decking Materials

You may want to build your deck out of waterproof decking materials from the start. Decorative concrete, stone, plastics, aluminum, and vinyl products are all attractive and waterproof.

Modern decking materials are available in a wide choice of textures and colors. Polyethylene, for instance, comes in many colors and can resemble wood. Just remember to look for a textured, slip-resistant surface, and choose one with UV protection to prevent fading from the sun and plastic degradation. Once your waterproof decking is protected from the number one destroyer of decks, you should be prepared to do battle against number two.

Besides being durable, today’s waterproof decking is easily found in home improvement stores stocked with the necessary hardware, accessories, and matching railings. Remember to ask for the instructions that are specific to your chosen waterproof decking material so that you will be aware of any special safety or construction issues. And be sure that you are familiar with your zoning and building codes before you begin a deck project. Nature isn’t the only danger to decks.