a newly built deck by Newfound Construction in Welland Ontario Canada

Decks & Fences: Choosing the Best Materials

September 02, 20246 min read

Outdoor spaces are a natural extension of your home, offering a place for relaxation, entertainment, and connection with nature. One of the most popular ways to enhance an outdoor area is by adding a deck or fence. However, the key to building a long-lasting, visually appealing structure is selecting the right materials. 

Whether you are looking for a deck to host summer gatherings or a fence to provide privacy and security, understanding the variety of materials available is crucial. In this blog, we'll explore the best materials for your deck and fence and how Newfound Construction, led by Travis Delaney, can help bring your vision to life.

Why Choose Newfound Construction?

Before diving into the materials, it's important to understand why the contractor you select for your project matters. Newfound Construction, based in Ontario, is owned by Travis Delaney and has built a reputation for excellence in a wide range of construction services. From wood framing and decks to renovations and general contracting, we are dedicated to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. 

Our extensive service offerings include:

  • Wood framing

  • Decks

  • Renovations

  • General contracting

  • Business contracting

  • Fencing

  • Fence posts

  • Chainlink fences

  • Wood fences

  • Window installation

  • Sheds

  • Kitchen remodels

  • Bathroom remodels

  • Full house renovations

Deck Materials: Choosing the Best for Your Space

When building a deck, the materials you choose will impact not only the look and feel of your outdoor space but also its longevity and maintenance requirements. Below, we discuss the most popular deck materials and their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

1. Pressure-Treated Wood

One of the most popular and affordable choices for deck construction is pressure-treated wood. This type of wood is chemically treated to resist rot, insects, and decay, making it a long-lasting option for outdoor projects.

Pros:

  • Affordable

  • Resistant to rot and insect damage

  • Readily available

Cons:

  • Requires regular maintenance (staining and sealing)

  • Prone to warping, cracking, and splintering over time

At Newfound Construction, we specialize in working with pressure-treated wood to create beautiful, durable decks. While this material requires a bit more upkeep, its affordability makes it an excellent choice for many homeowners.

2. Cedar

Cedar is another popular choice for decks due to its natural resistance to rot and insects, as well as its beautiful appearance. Cedar wood is lightweight, easy to work with, and has a pleasant scent.

Pros:

  • Naturally resistant to decay and insects

  • Lightweight and easy to work with

  • Beautiful, natural color

Cons:

  • More expensive than pressure-treated wood

  • Requires regular maintenance (staining and sealing)

  • Can fade and weather over time

Cedar decks have a timeless appeal, and at Newfound Construction, we can help you design and build a stunning cedar deck that complements your home's style while providing years of enjoyment.

3. Composite Decking

Composite decking is made from a combination of wood fibers and plastic, resulting in a low-maintenance, durable material that mimics the appearance of wood.

Pros:

  • Low maintenance (no need for staining or sealing)

  • Resistant to rot, insects, and fading

  • Long-lasting and durable

Cons:

  • More expensive than wood

  • Can become hot in direct sunlight

  • Limited color and texture options

If you're looking for a deck material that requires minimal upkeep and will last for years, composite decking may be the perfect choice for you. Our team at Newfound Construction is experienced in installing composite decks that provide the look of wood without the maintenance.

4. PVC Decking

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking is an all-plastic option that offers many of the same benefits as composite decking, with added resistance to moisture and mildew.

Pros:

  • Completely waterproof

  • Low maintenance

  • Resistant to rot, insects, and mildew

Cons:

  • Can be more expensive than composite and wood

  • May have a synthetic appearance

  • Limited color and design options

For homeowners in areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall, PVC decking is an excellent choice. At Newfound Construction, we can help you explore your options and determine if PVC is right for your outdoor space.

Fence Materials: Finding the Right Fit for Your Needs

Whether you're looking for privacy, security, or simply a decorative boundary for your yard, choosing the right fencing material is crucial. Here are some of the top materials to consider when building a fence with Newfound Construction.

Wood Fencing

Wood remains one of the most popular fencing materials due to its classic appearance and versatility. It can be stained or painted to match any style and provides a natural, warm aesthetic to any yard.

Pros:

  • Versatile design options

  • Natural beauty

  • Can be stained or painted to match any style

Cons:

  • Requires regular maintenance (painting, staining, and sealing)

  • Prone to warping, cracking, and insect damage

  • Limited lifespan compared to other materials

At Newfound Construction, we build custom wood fences using high-quality materials, ensuring that your fence is not only beautiful but also built to last.

2. Chainlink Fencing

For those looking for a durable, low-maintenance fencing option, chainlink is an excellent choice. This material is affordable, easy to install, and provides a functional solution for security or boundary purposes.

Pros:

  • Affordable

  • Low maintenance

  • Durable and long-lasting

Cons:

  • Less privacy

  • Lacks the aesthetic appeal of wood or vinyl

  • Limited design options

Chainlink fencing is ideal for functional purposes like pet enclosures or property boundaries. At Newfound Construction, we offer chainlink fencing installations that are both practical and secure.

3. Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl fencing is a popular alternative to wood, offering the same aesthetic appeal with far less maintenance. Vinyl is made from plastic, making it resistant to rot, insects, and weather damage.

Pros:

  • Low maintenance (no need for painting or staining)

  • Durable and resistant to weather and pests

  • Wide variety of styles and colors

Cons:

  • More expensive than wood

  • May have a synthetic appearance

  • Limited color options

If you're looking for a low-maintenance, long-lasting fence, vinyl may be the right option for you. At Newfound Construction, we install vinyl fences that offer both beauty and durability.

Why Material Matters

The materials you choose for your deck or fence will impact not only the aesthetics but also the functionality and longevity of your outdoor space. Factors such as climate, budget, and intended use will all play a role in determining the best material for your project.

At Newfound Construction, we understand that every homeowner has different needs and preferences. That's why we offer a variety of materials and services to ensure your deck or fence is built to meet your unique requirements.

Ready to Start Your Project?

If you're ready to transform your outdoor space with a custom deck or fence, contact Newfound Construction today. Our team of experts will work with you to select the best materials and design a structure that meets your needs and enhances your home.

To learn more, visit our website at https://newfoundconstruction.ca/ or call us at 289-273-9395.

Let Newfound Construction help you create the outdoor space of your dreams with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship.


Travis Delaney is the owner of Newfound Construction. His many years of experience with general contracting, along with his commitment to a great customer experience make Newfound Construction a top choice for business and home owners in the Niagara area.

Travis Delaney

Travis Delaney is the owner of Newfound Construction. His many years of experience with general contracting, along with his commitment to a great customer experience make Newfound Construction a top choice for business and home owners in the Niagara area.

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