If you’re considering adding a deck to your New Jersey and New York home, early summer is the perfect time. The weather is generally mild in June and July, and if you secure a decking contractor as soon as possible for your project, you’ll be able to enjoy entertaining in your extended outdoor space.

Contractors and homeowners in the Northeast choose Advantage Building Supply for their decking materials. We carry an extensive inventory of high-quality composite and pressure-treated materials designed to withstand the harsh Northeast weather. Whether you want a small deck for your townhouse, a wraparound deck for your vacation cabin, or one for an outdoor kitchen, Advantage Building Supply has all the materials you need.

Understanding Composite Decking Materials

Many decking contractors in New Jersey and New York choose composite decking materials. Made from plastic and wood fibers, composite decking is naturally rot and insect-resistant, has a long lifespan, and requires minimal maintenance. In addition, composite decking gives contractors flexibility in design, color, and style. Modern compositions often use recycled wood and plastic materials, making composite decking an eco-friendly option.

Advantage Building Supply specializes in composite exterior decking. We are proud to carry the following composite decking materials:

MoistureShield

MoistureShield uses innovative technology to resist water and UV rays, making this an ideal choice for decks built near the coast or lakes. The wood fibers in the MoistureShield planking are encapsulated with plastic, giving the planks an impermeable barrier to rain, mist, fog, and snow, often found in the Patterson area. Contractors choose MoistureShield composite material for low-clearance and dockside decks. In addition, the CoolDeck Technology in the materials helps keep the planks cool to the touch.

Trex

Trex is a popular composite decking material with various price points. Contractors in the Paterson area often use Trex for its sustainability factor. The manufacturers make Trex from 95% recycled products, such as plastic film and sawdust.

Fiberon

Fiberon is another popular choice for New Jersey and New York homeowners. Made from composite PVC, Fiberon is offered in several colors and styles. It has water-resistant technologies, ideal for pool decks and docks.

Wolf

Contractors appreciate Wolf composite decking for its durability and three-color choices. Special technology gives Wolf products superior strength and water-resistant qualities.

Pressure-Treated Wood Decking Fundamentals

Pressure-treated boards for decking is an affordable alternative to composite decking. This type of decking has a more natural wood feel and aesthetic that many New Jersey and Patterson homeowners prefer. However, pressure-treated wood requires regular maintenance, including sanding, staining, and sealing. In addition, this type of decking tends to warp, splinter, and scratch, so yearly maintenance is necessary to keep the decking looking presentable and to extend its life expectancy. Consult with your local decking contractor for the best wood species for the Northeast climate you live in.

Cost Analysis and Long-Term Value

Budgeting your deck is one of the biggest factors homeowners must consider. For budget-conscious homeowners, pressure-treated wood is an appealing option. However, choosing pressure-treated decking means you’ll need to budget for maintenance costs.

Contractor Considerations for Project Success

Contractors appreciate the various services and considerations Advantage Building Supply offers. We offer bulk pricing for exterior building supplies with a quick turnaround time, ideal for early summer decking projects in the New Jersey and Paterson area.

Special services for contractors include access to our fleet of vans, piggybacks, forklifts, and tractor-trailers. For multi-level jobs, contractors can take advantage of our boom trucks. Our staged delivery options allow us to deliver decking supplies as needed. Each contractor will have a dedicated account representative to assist with ordering, delivery, and billing options. Once you set up an account with us, consult with your account representative for special orders.

Maintenance Requirements and Longevity

Prices, maintenance, and longevity vary by decking type, climate, and how well you maintain the deck. According to Angie’s List, pressure-treated decking can last from 10 to 40 years with costs ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 dollars. While these are big ranges, your decking contractor can help you decide which option is best for your unique decking needs

Maintenance for pressure-treated wood decks is a bit involved. While you can DIY, hiring a professional will cost you less over the long run. The following are steps for maintaining a pressure-treated wood deck:

Power washing
Sanding
Applying a penetrating sealant
Staining or paintingInspecting it for cracks, splinters, insect infestation, and rot
Repairing or replacing broken boards

Composite decking requires minimal maintenance, with yearly or twice-yearly cleaning with soap and water. There is no sanding or sealing involved, and the decking only needs repairs for occasional board replacements.

Trex: Average lifespan of 25 to 50 years with a 25- to 50-Year Limited Residential & Fade/Stain (varies by product line) Warranty.
MoistureShield: Structural Warranty of 50 years with a Fade and Stain Warranty ranging between 30 and 50 years, depending on the product line.
Fiberon: Physical Integrity Performance Warranty ranging from 25 years to lifetime, and Stain and Fade Resistance Warranty between 20 and 50 years.
Wolf: Product Warranty ranges from 25 years to a lifetime, with Stain and Fade Warranty coverage between 25 and 50 years.

Composite decking comes with warranty coverage and your decking contractor’s specific warranty. Pressure-treated decking does not come with warranty coverage except for labor coverage and contractor warranties.

Making the Right Decking Choice for Your Summer Build

Decking options are a personal choice. Homeowners need to consider upfront costs, long-term maintenance costs and time, and how the type of decking material will affect the appearance and value of their home. Advantage Building Supply works with contractors and homeowners to remain the premier destination for decking materials. Contact us for a quote and learn more about the brands we carry and our same-week delivery services in the New Jersey and New York area.