When selecting the right decking for Portland and the broader Pacific Northwest, it’s important to consider the wet winters and hot summers. The high moisture levels, frequent rain, and occasional extreme heat put specific demands on the materials used for decking. Here’s a breakdown of the best options for wood and composite decks, based on longevity, stability, and maintenance in Portland specifically.
Best Wood Deck: Hardwood Over Cedar
If you’re looking for a natural wood aesthetic, hardwood decks are the top choice for this region. The density of hardwood makes it highly resistant to moisture, a significant factor in Portland’s rainy climate.
Top Choices for Hardwood Decks:
- IPE (Brazilian Walnut): This dense tropical hardwood is naturally water-resistant, durable, and known for its beautiful appearance. It’s an excellent choice for decks in the Pacific Northwest as it can withstand heavy rainfall without warping or rotting.
- Batu (Red Balau): Another high-end hardwood, Batu shares many qualities with IPE, offering a rich natural color, high density, and excellent water resistance. Batu is also a more affordable option compared to IPE.
- Cedar (Secondary Option): While cedar is a traditional choice for decking, it doesn’t hold up as well as hardwood in the long term. “Old Growth” cedar, which used to be more durable, has largely been replaced by “New Growth” cedar, which can start to show rot after just 10 years if exposed to heavy rain.
Why Choose Hardwood? Hardwood decks like IPE and Batu are more stable in Portland’s climate. The natural density of these woods means they don’t swell, warp, or crack easily, even after long exposure to rain and fluctuating temperatures. While cedar is still a viable option for those seeking a more cost-effective solution, the lifespan of hardwood far surpasses that of cedar.
Best Composite Deck: Deckorators Voyage
For homeowners who want to minimize the upkeep of their deck, composite materials provide an excellent alternative to wood. Not all composite boards, however, are ideal for the Pacific Northwest’s unique climate. Many composites contain wood-based particles, which can swell and deteriorate with consistent exposure to moisture.
Why Deckorators Voyage Stands Out:
- Mineral-Based Core: Unlike traditional wood-based composite boards, Deckorators Voyage uses a mineral-based composite (MBC), making it highly resistant to moisture. This core also prevents the common issue of swelling found in other composites during the wet winters.
- Traction and Safety: Deckorators Voyage offers superior traction, reducing the risk of slipping on wet surfaces—an essential feature for rainy climates like Portland’s.
- Better Warranty: Deckorators provides an industry-leading warranty, covering not only product failure but also contractor costs for repairs. This is a significant advantage compared to other big-name brands like Trex or TimberTech, which typically do not cover the labor involved in replacing faulty boards.
Drawbacks of Traditional Composite Decking: While composite decking from brands like Trex and TimberTech are popular across the country, they tend to include wood particles that don’t perform as well in wet climates. The risk of swelling and degradation in wood-based composites makes them less ideal for Portland’s rain.
Conclusion: What’s the Best Deck for You?
- For a natural, long-lasting wood deck: Choose IPE or Batu hardwood. These options provide excellent durability and beauty, standing up to Portland’s rain without warping or rotting. Cedar is still an option but may not last as long.
- For a low-maintenance, high-performing deck: Deckorators Voyage is the superior choice. It’s designed for durability in the wet Pacific Northwest and offers excellent traction and long-term warranties that include repair costs.
Each material has its strengths, and the best choice ultimately depends on your priorities—whether it’s the aesthetic appeal of natural wood or the ease of maintaining a composite deck. With the right choice, your deck can withstand Portland’s weather and provide years of outdoor enjoyment.
