The Best Deck Materials for Withstanding Minnesota Weather

Capital City Deck Pros • Apr 15, 2024

In the ever-changing climate of St. Paul, Minnesota, choosing the right materials for your deck is crucial. The region's hot summers and bitterly cold winters demand materials that can withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, heavy snowfall, and everything in between. Capital City Deck Pros is dedicated to building decks that not only enhance the beauty of your outdoor space but also endure the rigors of Minnesota's weather. Here’s our guide to the best deck materials for your St. Paul home, ensuring durability, beauty, and longevity.

A line-up of rubber boots on a wet wooden deck in St. Paul, MN, showcasing an array of sizes and colors. From left to right, there’s a pair of tall black adult boots, followed by bright yellow, then vibrant red, and lastly a small pair of navy blue with red soles. The boots are set against a backdrop of fallen autumn leaves, hinting at rainy weather. The wet surface of the deck reflects the boots and leaves, enhancing the seasonal, outdoor atmosphere of the scene.

Composite Decking: A Versatile Choice

Weather and Wear Resistance

Composite decking, made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic components, stands as the premier choice for Minnesota homeowners. It's designed to resist fading, staining, and warping, making it ideal for withstanding hot summers and cold winters alike. Its moisture-resistant properties are particularly beneficial in snowy conditions, preventing the rot and mold that can plague natural wood.

Low Maintenance

Another advantage of composite decking is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike wood, it doesn't need to be stained, sealed, or painted annually, saving homeowners time and money. A simple cleaning with soap and water is typically all that’s needed to maintain its appearance.

Pressure-Treated Wood: Economical and Durable

Enhanced Durability

Pressure-treated wood is a cost-effective option that has been chemically treated to resist rot, decay, and termites. This treatment extends the life of the wood, making it a durable choice for Minnesota's humid summers and snowy winters.

Regular Maintenance Required

While pressure-treated wood is resilient, it does require regular maintenance to protect against the elements. Annual sealing, staining, or painting is necessary to prevent moisture absorption and to maintain its structural integrity and appearance.

Cedar and Redwood: Natural Beauty

Natural Resistance to Weather

Cedar and redwood are prized for their natural beauty and inherent resistance to rot and insects. These woods contain natural oils that help them withstand moisture, making them suitable for Minnesota's climate. They also offer a unique aesthetic with their rich colors and textures.

Maintenance for Longevity

To preserve the natural beauty of cedar and redwood decks, regular maintenance is essential. This includes applying a clear sealer annually to protect against moisture and UV damage. Over time, these woods can weather to a silver-gray patina if left untreated.

Aluminum Decking: Innovative and Long-Lasting

Ultimate Durability

Aluminum decking is a cutting-edge option that offers unmatched durability and weather resistance. It doesn't rot, rust, warp, or crack, making it ideal for handling Minnesota's winter snow and ice. It’s also fireproof, providing an extra layer of safety for your home.

Cool to the Touch

Unlike traditional metal decking, high-quality aluminum decking is designed to remain cool to the touch even in direct sunlight, making it a comfortable choice for summer. It also comes in various finishes and colors to match your home's exterior.

Conclusion

Choosing the right material for your St. Paul deck involves balancing factors such as durability, maintenance, aesthetics, and budget. Whether you prefer the low maintenance of composite and aluminum, the natural beauty of cedar and redwood, or the affordability of pressure-treated wood, Capital City Deck Pros can help you select the best material to suit your needs and withstand Minnesota's challenging weather.

Call to Action

Are you ready to build a deck that lasts? Contact Capital City Deck Pros today to explore our wide range of durable decking materials perfect for Minnesota homes.


FAQs

  • How long can I expect my composite deck to last in Minnesota?

    Composite decks can last 25 to 30 years or more with proper installation and minimal maintenance, even in Minnesota's harsh climate.

  • Is aluminum decking slippery when wet or icy?

    High-quality aluminum decking is designed with a textured surface that provides traction, making it less slippery when wet or icy compared to other materials.

  • Can cedar and redwood decks withstand heavy snowfall?

    Yes, cedar and redwood have natural strength and resistance to moisture, allowing them to withstand heavy snowfall with proper structural support and regular maintenance.

  • What is the most cost-effective decking material?

    Pressure-treated wood is often the most cost-effective upfront, but when considering long-term maintenance and replacement costs, composite decking may be more economical over the lifespan of the deck.

  • How does the cold affect composite decking?

    Composite decking is designed to withstand extreme temperatures and is less likely to crack or warp in cold weather compared to natural wood.

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