A variety of alternative decking materials on the market offer lower-maintenance alternatives to wood. Although these materials may initially be more expensive than wood, they often carry lifetime warranties and can be cheaper than wood over the long run.

Composite materials blend together wood fibers and recycled plastics to create a rigid product that, unlike wood, will not rot, splinter, warp, or crack. Painting or staining is unnecessary. Like wood, these deck boards can be cut to size, using a circular saw with a large tooth blade.

PVC vinyl and plastic decking materials are shipped in kits that contain everything necessary to install the decking other than the deck screws. The kits are pre-ordered to size, usually in multiples of the combined width of a deck board and the fasteners. The drawback of PVC vinyl decking is that it expands and contracts with freeze/thaw cycles.

Fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) decking will last a lifetime. Manufacturers claim that the material is three times as strong as wood and not affected by heat, sunlight, or severe weather. The decking is pre-ordered to size but if necessary, it can be cut using a circular saw with diamond-tip blade or masonry blade.

Aluminum decking systems are considerably more expensive than other wood alternatives and are not widely available, but they offer sturdy, lightweight, and waterproof outdoor flooring. Simple decking designs are very easy to install, although more elaborate designs and floor patterns can be quite difficult.

Most of these products are specifically designed with the do-it-yourselfer in mind. Though the installation methods and fastening systems vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, most are designed to accommodate standard building dimensions, such as 16" joist spacing.

Prior to placing an order for any material, check with your local building department. Some areas may require a permit or have restrictions against certain materials. Also remember: these are general installation instructions. Always follow the installation methods recommended by the manufacturer of the product you select.

Plastic/wood composites are available in colors that complement any wood tone. The decking is installed with screws driven through the top of the deck boards into the joists, in the same way as standard lumber.

Other plastic/wood composites use a tongue-and-groove system for fastening deck boards to the joists. This blind-screw method leaves no holes in the deck floor.

PVC vinyl and plastic deck materials also use a blind-screw method. A T-clip system simplifies installation and creates a uniform decking pattern.

Fiberglass decking is installed with retaining clips, so each deck board snaps easily into place. The result is a sturdy structure that will last a lifetime.