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OUR MISSION IS TO TAILOR FOR EACH CLIENT A BEAUTIFUL, FUNCTIONAL AND ENDURING OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT THAT WILL PROVIDE A PLACE OF SERENITY FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY TO APPRECIATE FOR YEARS TO COME.
BuildCal Landscape Decks & Outdoor Living Article
Decking Materials: Choosing What's Best for Glendale | BuildCal
Glendale's unique climate—with its hot, dry summers and mild winters—demands careful consideration when choosing decking materials. The perfect deck should not only enhance your outdoor living space but also withstand the specific challenges of our Southern California environment. At BuildCal, we've helped hundreds of Glendale homeowners navigate this important decision, balancing four crucial factors:
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Climate Resistance - Materials must tolerate intense UV exposure and temperature fluctuations
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Long-Term Durability - Decking should maintain its beauty for decades with proper care
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Aesthetic Harmony - The deck should complement your home's architectural style
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Functional Performance - Surface texture, heat retention, and maintenance requirements
This comprehensive guide walks you through all available options, from traditional wood decking to innovative composite materials. You'll learn:
- How different materials react to Glendale's climate
- Maintenance requirements for each decking type
- Design tips to match your home's architecture
- Professional installation insights from our team
Whether you're building a new deck or renovating an existing one, understanding these material options will help you create an outdoor space that's beautiful, functional, and built to last.
5 Top Decking Materials for Glendale Homes
1. Premium Hardwoods
For timeless natural beauty
Best Choices:
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Ipe - Extremely dense and durable
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Cumaru - Rich color variations
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Tigerwood - Distinctive grain patterns
Glendale Advantages:
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Naturally resistant to insects and rot
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Develops attractive patina over time
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Perfect for modern architectural homes
Maintenance Needs:
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Annual oiling recommended
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Occasional sanding for refinishing
2. Composite Decking
For low-maintenance living
Top Brands:
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Trex
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TimberTech
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Fiberon
Key Benefits:
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No splintering or cracking
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Resistant to fading and staining
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Available in various colors and textures
Installation Tip:
Pair with custom railings for cohesive design
3. PVC Decking
For maximum weather resistance
Ideal For:
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Pool surrounds
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Rooftop decks
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High-moisture areas
Performance Features:
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Won't warp or rot
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Mold and mildew resistant
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Cooler surface than composites
4. Pressure-Treated Wood
Budget-friendly option
Considerations:
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Requires regular sealing
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May warp over time
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Best for painted decks
5. Aluminum Decking
For contemporary designs
Unique Advantages:
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Fire-resistant
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Won't fade or stain
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Lightweight but strong
Material Comparison Chart
| Material | Durability | Maintenance | Heat Retention | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood | 25+ years | High | Moderate | Traditional homes |
| Composite | 15-25 years | Low | High | Busy families |
| PVC | 20-30 years | Very Low | Medium | Pool areas |
| Pressure-Treated | 10-15 years | High | High | Budget projects |
| Aluminum | 30+ years | None | Low | Modern designs |
Glendale-Specific Considerations
Climate Adaptations
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Choose lighter colors to reduce heat absorption
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Ensure proper drainage in deck design
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Allow for wood movement during dry seasons
Architectural Pairings
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Craftsman homes: Cedar or redwood
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Mid-century modern: Composite or aluminum
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Mediterranean: Tropical hardwoods
Safety Features
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Slip-resistant surfaces
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Proper railing heights
FAQs
Q: What's the most eco-friendly option?
A: FSC-certified hardwoods or composites made from recycled materials
Q: How do I prevent my deck from getting too hot?
A: Choose lighter colors and consider shade solutions
Q: Can I install decking myself?
A: While possible, professional installation ensures proper ventilation and longevity
Q: How often should I clean my composite deck?
A: 2-3 times per year with mild soap and water
Professional Deck Building Process
Our 5-step approach:
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Consultation - Discuss needs and preferences
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3D Design - Visualize your perfect deck
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Material Selection - Choose the best option
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Precision Installation - By certified builders
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Final Walkthrough - Ensure complete satisfaction
Start Your Deck Project
Ready to build your dream deck?
Call: (818) 303-1570
Visit: Our Glendale Showroom
Serving: Glendale, Burbank, Pasadena, and surrounding areas
Thinking about a new outdoor space?
We’d love to hear your ideas. Let’s explore what’s possible—no pressure, just a friendly conversation.
Give us a call:
+1 (818) 303-1570
Tagged under:
Decks Glendale, deck materials, outdoor decking, composite decking
Frequently Asked Question
WE WANT A LOT DONE, BUT CANNOT AFFORD TO DO IT ALL NOW. CAN YOU STILL WORK WITH US?
Yes – it is not uncommon to do a project in phases, especially when there are such constraints as budget and time. Because we draw up our own plans, we can design a project to be installed in phases. Once the complete plan is established, the property owner can easily pick and choose which parts to be completed now and in the future.