Easy to maintain deck and fence?

Hello dear brownstoners,

I am getting ready to fix up my backyard and trying to figure out what material to use for fencing and decking. I used wood in the past (both pressure treated and cedar) and it was a pain to maintain. I want something that does not require much maintenance but also looks cool and elegant. Any suggestions? Am I being realistic?

Thank you!

deva

in General Discussion 4 years and 7 months ago

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brokelin | 4 years and 7 months ago

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Metal deck, definitely.

dorkofwindsor | 4 years and 7 months ago

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Well, you could do IPE but if you don’t want that silver weathered look it will require some maintenance (power wash or sanding, then oil – annually). Even without oiling it will still check and may need some sanding underfoot. I did a fence and outdoor table in IPE, but if I could go back in time I think I would probably do either TimberTech Azek Vintage or Trex Transcend. Those are truly no maintenance and don’t harm the rainforest and I would be just as happy aesthetically.

stevecym | 4 years and 7 months ago

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Ok. So a section of my fence went into the trash today and the rest will soon follow.

I was thinking of researching this or talking to people i know – and if we dont get answers, i will.

For now i am staying with wood but am going to treat it. I am hoping if i treat it with a serious wood stain presrvative like penofin, as opposed to olympia and thompsons, it will hold up much better.

Let’s see what others say.