Choosing the Best Decking Material for Idaho's Climate: A Guide for Homeowners
Building a deck is one of the best ways to create a functional, beautiful outdoor space to enjoy Idaho's stunning natural beauty. However, when selecting the right material for your deck, there’s more to consider than just appearance. Idaho’s diverse climate—hot, dry summers, cold, snowy winters, and everything in between—can impact how well certain materials hold up over time.
At Decked Out, a premier outdoor spaces design and build company in Boise, we’ve seen how Idaho's unique environment shapes the choices homeowners make for their outdoor spaces. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of decking materials available, including various types of wood, composite decking, and alternative materials, and how they perform in Idaho’s climate.
The Top Decking Materials to Consider
1. Pressure-Treated Wood
What It Is: Pressure-treated wood is typically pine or fir that’s been chemically treated to resist rot, insects, and moisture.
Pros:
Budget-friendly, making it one of the most affordable decking options.
Readily available in most lumberyards and home improvement stores.
Durable when properly maintained, especially in a semi-arid climate like southern Idaho's.
Cons:
Prone to warping, cracking, and splintering due to Idaho's hot summers and dry air.
Requires regular maintenance, including annual sealing and staining, to protect it from the elements.
Best Use in Idaho:
Pressure-treated wood works well for homeowners on a budget who are willing to commit to regular upkeep. However, the intense summer heat and freezing winters may shorten its lifespan without proper maintenance.
2. Cedar and Redwood
What They Are: Natural woods prized for their beauty, durability, and natural resistance to decay and insects.
Pros:
Stunning, natural appearance with warm, rich hues.
Resists rot and insects without the need for chemical treatments.
Softer than other woods, making them more comfortable to walk on barefoot in summer.
Cons:
More expensive than pressure-treated wood.
Requires periodic staining or sealing to prevent fading, especially in areas with high UV exposure like Idaho.
Best Use in Idaho:
Cedar and redwood are excellent for decks where aesthetics and durability are priorities. With proper maintenance, they can withstand Idaho's fluctuating weather conditions, though the dry summer air may accelerate fading without UV protection.
3. Composite Decking
What It Is: Made from a combination of recycled wood fibers and plastic, composite decking is a low-maintenance alternative to natural wood.
Pros:
Extremely durable and resistant to rot, splintering, and insects.
Requires very little maintenance—no staining or sealing needed.
Comes in a wide range of colors and textures that mimic natural wood.
Cons:
Higher upfront cost than wood decking.
Can become hot to the touch during Idaho’s high summer temperatures.
May scratch or fade over time, though newer brands have improved on this.
Best Use in Idaho:
Composite decking is ideal for homeowners seeking a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution. It holds up well to snow and moisture in the winter but may require shading or cooling solutions for hot summer days.
4. PVC Decking (100% Plastic)
What It Is: PVC decking is made entirely of plastic, offering superior moisture resistance and durability.
Pros:
Completely waterproof, making it ideal for wet or snowy climates.
Won’t rot, warp, or splinter, even with extreme weather changes.
Low maintenance and easy to clean.
Cons:
Can feel artificial compared to wood.
Prone to being slippery when wet.
High initial cost.
Best Use in Idaho:
PVC decking is a fantastic choice for homeowners in areas of Idaho that see heavy snow or rain, such as the northern panhandle. Its weatherproof properties make it a reliable long-term investment.
5. Exotic Hardwoods (Ipe, Tigerwood, and Cumaru)
What They Are: Dense, tropical hardwoods that are naturally resistant to decay, insects, and moisture.
Pros:
Incredibly strong and long-lasting, often outlasting composite decking.
Stunning, rich colors that make your deck stand out.
Naturally resistant to rot and pests without needing chemical treatment.
Cons:
Very expensive, both in material costs and installation.
Can be challenging to work with due to its density.
Needs regular maintenance to preserve its color, especially under Idaho's strong summer sun.
Best Use in Idaho:
Exotic hardwoods are a luxury choice for homeowners who want a high-end, long-lasting deck. They perform well in Idaho’s climate but may need UV-resistant finishes to protect against sun damage.
6. Aluminum Decking
What It Is: A metal decking option that’s lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust and weather damage.
Pros:
Completely weatherproof and immune to rot, warping, and insect damage.
Low maintenance and long-lasting.
Non-slip finishes available, even when wet.
Cons:
Limited aesthetic appeal compared to wood or composite options.
High upfront cost.
Best Use in Idaho:
Aluminum decking is perfect for homeowners looking for a virtually indestructible option. While not as visually warm as wood, it’s a smart choice for decks exposed to heavy snow or rain.
How Idaho's Climate Impacts Decking Material Choices
Idaho’s climate varies greatly depending on the region, so it's essential to factor in the local environment when choosing decking materials.
Sun Exposure in Southern Idaho
In Boise and the Treasure Valley, summers can be hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching the high 90s. UV exposure can cause fading and cracking in wood and some composite materials. To combat this, opt for UV-resistant finishes or materials like composite and exotic hardwoods that can better handle intense sunlight.
Snow and Moisture in Northern Idaho
Areas like Coeur d'Alene experience heavy snowfall and more moisture than southern Idaho. Decking materials need to resist rot and moisture damage. PVC, aluminum, or exotic hardwoods with proper sealing are ideal choices for these wetter conditions.
Temperature Fluctuations
Idaho’s freeze-thaw cycles during winter can cause materials like untreated wood to warp and crack. Composite, PVC, and aluminum decking are better equipped to handle these fluctuations.
Tips for Choosing the Right Deck Material
Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend upfront and on maintenance.
Consider Maintenance: If you’re looking for low upkeep, composites and PVC are great options.
Think Long-Term: Higher upfront costs for durable materials like exotic hardwoods or aluminum may save money over time.
Match Your Home’s Aesthetic: Choose a material that complements your home’s exterior design.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right decking material is crucial to building a deck that stands up to Idaho’s diverse climate while enhancing the beauty of your outdoor space. At Decked Out, we specialize in helping homeowners in Boise and across Idaho select and install the best materials for their needs.
No matter your style, budget, or climate concerns, there’s a decking material that’s perfect for your project. Contact us today to start planning the deck of your dreams!
