Decking Options Beyond Wood: Stylish and Durable Alternatives

Wood has long been the go-to choice for decking, and I’ve built many over the years! However, as homeowners seek more durable, low-maintenance, and sustainable solutions, a wide range of wood alternatives are growing in popularity. From realistic composites to charming stone and eco-friendly bamboo, the options are plentiful—and each can bring something special to your outdoor space.

Here, I’ll cover the top alternative decking materials that offer lasting performance and loads of style. By the end, you’ll have a fresh perspective on options for your deck. Let’s explore decking options beyond wood!

Top Decking Options Beyond Wood

These alternative decking materials combine durability, style, and low maintenance, making them attractive considerations for any outdoor retreat.

Composite Decking

I’m always impressed by composite decking, blending the natural look of wood with the benefits of modern technology. Made from wood fibers and recycled plastics, it offers durability and low maintenance—providing the realistic appearance of a timber deck without the staining and sealing. It also resists the rot, splinters, and warping that can compromise wood.

Most composite decks feature a fastener-free surface, with hidden clips attaching the decking to the frame. This is a project DIYers can tackle, but if you’re not ready to take the project on yourself, find a builder here for a worry-free installation.

Composite decks commonly retain their appearance for 25+ years with simple cleaning. For the ultimate in quality, I like high-performance options like Trex Transcend and Signature decking with 50-year limited warranties.

PVC Decking

I recommend PVC decking to homeowners seeking a modern, uniform appearance that can also handle tough conditions. Made from synthetic polyvinyl chloride and impervious to moisture, PVC decking is perfect for wet, humid, and coastal climates.

Available in wood looks and solid colors, PVC is lightweight and easy to handle. When cutting, I like to use fine-toothed saw blade and cut slowly for clean edges. Then, like composites, PVC is usually secured with hidden fasteners for an uninterrupted deck surface.

PVC decking requires only occasional cleaning, and because it resists both water and UV rays, it can easily last 50+ years without fading or degrading.

Aluminum Decking            

Powder-coated aluminum decking is light, strong, and ideal for elevated decks and areas with high traffic or moisture concerns. Usually made from recycled aluminum, it resists rust, corrosion, and wear. With wood-like finishes and solid colors, it delivers a modern vibe. However, it can get hot underfoot, so consider your climate and deck location.

Cutting aluminum decking boards requires a carbide-tipped saw blade. Once cut, the planks are secured to the frame with clips and screws. Lasting 50+ years, aluminum decking carries warranties ranging from 20-year to lifetime.

Concrete Decking

Concrete decking combines durability with endless design potential. I’ve seen decks come to life with concrete that mimics stone, tile, and even wood! Whether you’re after a polished modern vibe, a rustic stamped look, or a stained finish, concrete is a creative canvas. Plus, concrete easily supports heavy furniture and outdoor structures.

Simple slabs or precast panels can be DIY-friendly, but more advanced poured concrete techniques are usually best left to professionals who have the right tools and expertise. Followed by proper sealing, concrete decks can last 30+ years.

Stone or Tile Decking

Stone and tile decking bring beauty and incredible durability to outdoor spaces. Both naturally resist weather, insects, and wear, and the designs are limitless—from rustic flagstones and elegant marble tiles to sleek modern slate and vibrant mosaics or ceramics.

Stone or tile decking is installed over a level base, with pieces carefully fitted and secured by mortar or thin-set adhesive. I usually recommend hiring a professional to ensure a safe and a polished finish, especially with heavy materials, intricate designs, or stonecutting requirements. Once in place, stone and tile decking can last 30 to 50+ years.

Recycled Materials

Recycled decking materials bring sustainability to your outdoor retreat. In addition to composite and PVC decking made with recycled content, other recycled options like rubber paver tiles resembling stone, railway sleepers that carry a history (be sure to avoid those treated with creosote), or reclaimed brick or pavers can also be tapped for more budget-friendly alternatives. For inspiration and unique pieces with character, I like to head to architectural salvage yards. Some landscapers also have extra or rescued materials at low cost from their own projects.

Bamboo Decking

Bamboo decking is lightweight, eco-friendly, and the treated, compressed planks resist both weather and insects. I find homeowners like bamboo not only for its natural yet modern aesthetic, but also its sustainability. Unlike trees, bamboo matures in just a few years and regenerates from the same root system, making it a truly renewable resource.

Bamboo is hard, requiring a carbide-tipped saw blade and impact driver for cutting and installing. The decking can be face- or edge-fastened or installed with hidden clips, comparable to traditional hardwoods. With periodic sealing, an eco-conscious bamboo deck can last 25+ years.

Benefits of Non-Wood Decking Materials

While each alternative offers unique advantages, non-wood decking materials generally provide several key benefits over traditional wood, including:

• Durability: Resist or eliminate rot, splinters, and warping.
• Low Maintenance: Require minimal upkeep, often only occasional cleaning.
  Note: Bamboo and concrete need to be sealed.
• Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled, renewable, or natural materials like stone, they minimize environmental impact by promoting sustainability.
• Design Flexibility: Colors, textures, and materials suit any preference, from rustic and natural to sleek and modern.
• Environmental Resistance: Resist fading, cracking, and insect damage and perform well in extreme conditions.

Comparing Non-Wood Decking Options

Here how alternatives decking options compare.

Reimagining Decking: Beyond Wood

While I’ll always appreciate timber decks, wood alternatives unlock a world of stylish and durable decking options, from sleek aluminum and PVC to versatile cement and recycled rubber. These materials offer lasting performance with minimal maintenance—and a wide range of appealing looks for your deck. Choose the decking material that reflects your own “alternative style,” and create a beautiful deck designed for lasting enjoyment.

FAQs About Non-Wood Decking Options

I often get a couple of key questions about alternative decking materials—here are my answers.

How Does Non-Wood Decking Affect Home Value?

Non-wood decking can increase your home’s value by offering durability and low maintenance, appealing to buyers looking for outdoor spaces that require less upkeep. While traditional wood decks still see an 83% ROI compared to composite decks at 68%, they require ongoing maintenance that demand time and further investment, whereas alternative options retain their appeal—and value—without the hassle.

Can I Install Non-Wood Decking Myself?  

Many non-wood decking alternatives are DIY-friendly, though difficulty varies by material and design. Composite and PVC decking are popular, but while hidden fasteners offer a sleek finish, installation can be tricky and more time-consuming than face-fastening. Bamboo decking requires the right tools and careful installation to prevent damage. Stone, concrete, and tile decking are doable, but labor-intensive and leveling is critical. Simple concrete slabs are manageable, but custom designs may require expertise. Stone and tile are flexible but intricate patterns or stonecutting may require a professional.

Sources

Is bamboo a renewable resource? (n.d.). Bamboo Blissful. Retrieved December 10, 2024, from https://bambooblissful.com/is-bamboo-a-renewable-resource/

Aluminum decking: Everything you need to know. (n.d.). Household Advice. Retrieved December 10, 2024, from https://householdadvice.net/aluminum-decking/

Cost vs. value: 2024. (n.d.). JLC Online. Retrieved December 10, 2024, from https://www.jlconline.com/cost-vs-value/2024/

Transform your outdoor space: How to use railway sleepers as decking. (n.d.). Reclaimed Brick Company. Retrieved December 10, 2024, from https://reclaimedbrickcompany.co.uk/blogs/yard-display/transform-your-outdoor-space-how-to-use-railway-sleepers-as-decking