When it comes to building or rebuilding a deck in the greater Portland area, choosing the right frame is important for the long term health of a deck. The Pacific Northwest’s wet and changing climate makes some materials less suitable than others. Here, we’ll explore the three most common deck frame options: untreated wood, treated wood, and steel frames. We’ll explain why untreated wood is not recommended, why treated wood can be a good budget option, and why steel frames are the ideal choice for those who want a durable and long-lasting deck.
1. Untreated Wood Deck Frames: Not Recommended
Untreated wood deck frames simply do not hold up to the demands of Portland’s weather. In fact, untreated wood doesn’t meet building code in the area, meaning if you come across one, it’s likely an old deck or a failing one. With untreated wood, rot, warping, and structural failure are common issues, especially in the damp climate of the Pacific Northwest. Homeowners with untreated wood frames often find themselves rebuilding or repairing their decks far earlier than anticipated, making this the least recommended option for new deck construction.
2. Treated Wood Deck Frames: Affordable but Imperfect
Treated wood deck frames are a popular option for homeowners looking to save money, especially for decks built 4 or more feet above the ground. The increased airflow underneath these decks helps keep the wood dry, prolonging its life.
However, treated wood still has its downsides. While the material is treated to resist moisture and insects, individual boards can still move, warp, split, and crack over time. This movement can result in an uneven surface for your decking material to rest on, and you may notice that your decking boards don’t sit as flat as you’d like. While treated wood is certainly more durable than untreated wood, it may still require repairs or adjustments down the road.
Cost Consideration: Treated wood is the most affordable option. If you’re working with a budget, treated wood can save you $5,000 to $7,000 on a $50,000 deck project, compared to steel.
3. Steel Deck Frames: The Best Option for Long-Term Durability
For those looking for the best long-term solution, steel deck frames, such as Fortress or Oldcastle Steel, are the best choice for Portland’s climate. Steel is incredibly durable, providing a deck structure that will not warp, crack, or rot like wood. In fact, a well-constructed steel frame will likely outlast both your home and the homeowners themselves.
Not only is a steel frame incredibly strong and stable, but it also looks sleek and modern. The black finish on steel frames adds a polished, high-end aesthetic to any deck. This combination of durability and beauty makes steel frames a particularly appealing option for homeowners who are investing in high-end decking materials like composite or hardwood.
Cost Consideration: Steel frames do come at a higher initial cost. On a $50,000 deck project, expect to pay an additional $5,000 to $7,000 compared to treated wood. However, when you’re installing premium decking material that you want to last, investing in a lifetime frame like steel makes financial sense in the long run. With fewer repairs and virtually no structural degradation, the steel frame provides peace of mind and long-term value.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Deck Frame
In Portland and the Pacific Northwest, the wet climate can be tough on decks. For those looking to build a lasting, high-quality deck, we strongly recommend investing in a steel frame. While treated wood offers a budget-friendly option, it comes with the risk of warping and requires more maintenance over time. Steel, on the other hand, provides unmatched durability and stability, making it the ideal choice for high-end projects where longevity and aesthetics are top priorities.
