3 Deck substructure frame material options to consider...
25th Jul 2024
3 deck substructure frame material options to consider...
Extending your outdoor living space with a deck can be an exciting venture. Unfortunately, the excitement comes to some complicated decisions that must be made before you begin. Questions like these need answers:
1. Traditional Timber deck frame construction:
While timber can appear to be a cheaper option than the alternative deck structure materials, using timber deck framing also means dealing with the imperfections of nature. Timber absorbs moisture like a sponge and when it dries out it's reluctant to stay in shape. Timber for decking subframes is extremely heavy when wet adding unnecessary effort to the job, especially if the area is wet or muddy to start with. Building with warped or twisted bearers and joists is difficult. Timber deck frames require a lot of nogging or blocking to ensure the joists do not roll over and also to keep them parallel. The joist and bearers need additional fastening, strapping and bracing to hold shape.
2. Steeldeck frame construction materials:
Steel deck frame construction. This is the least cost effective deck framing option. Steel joists and bearers can span longer distances than a wood deck frame, however at the expense of ease of construction. Steel deck frames are very heavy to handle and require anti-rust protection treatments applied to the components each time they are cut to avoid corrosion. Steel joist is also very time consuming to install decking boards.
3. Aluminium frame construction materials:
QwickBuild™ substructure deck frame system. This lightweight, marine-grade structural aluminum features the same long span and high load deck framework as steel, without the high price and much easier installation! Since this pre-fabricated deck frame is not affected by moisture or extreme temperatures, it offers superior durability and low maintenance compared to both timber and steel. And installation time is a snap because the number of pile or post supports is reduced by 30% and no screws or nails are needed for attaching deck boards to the aluminium joists. QwickBuild™ is supplied for all decking applications, residential and commercial in either pre-assembled deck frames or kitset or in loose components.
Learn more about outdoor deck construction and installation the fast way
Have you considered a Composite Deck Substructure for Your Project?
As an alternative to a substructure comprising of a single material, why not consider a composite deck? Made from a hybrid of products, wood plastic composite decking aims to combine the best elements from both wood and plastic materials with fewer limitations. Composite materials are less likely to rot, warp and swell like timber but are still easy to work with so installation time will be kept to a minimum. And as a composite deck is weatherproof, your substructure will stand the test of time, providing a strong foundation for years to come, no matter your design plans.
Not as strong as timber or aluminium decking this substructure does have its disadvantages though. Composite deck structures can be an expensive material to work with when compared to timber, but does still tend to be cheaper than steel.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Alternatives for Your Deck Substructure
No matter the type of deck that you are installing, the material type and products that you choose for the substructure is very important. It doesn't matter whether you are working on a residential or commercial outdoor space and whether that area is a garden, balcony, rooftop, pool area or other, the fundamentals remain the same. If you spend the money, time and care on a solid foundation, you are guaranteed a high quality, long lasting decking substructure that is built to handle any amount of foot traffic.
And even if you have decided to ask a professional to complete the work for you, it is beneficial to brush up on your knowledge of substructures and decide the materials that you want to use. After all, it is you who will be utilizing the transformed outdoor space time and time again so be prepared and arm yourself with knowledge. In return, you'll have the peace of mind that your design is built upon a strong base.
Spotting a Quality Supplier for Your Aluminium Deck Substructure
So you have chosen the best substructure for your needs, taking into consideration the pros and cons of each. Now, you need a reliable, experienced supplier that will go the extra mile to ensure that your project succeeds. Well, you have come to the right place. Here at Outdure, we have the knowledge, experience and care needed for you to select between composite decking alternatives and build a solid deck substructure.
Offering a price and design service, we will take a look through your design plan and space and ensure that you are choosing the best decking systems for your needs. Adhering to every budget, we offer solutions that tick all of your boxes without compromising on quality. Continuing the top service, we also provide advice and guidance so the install is equally smooth. Easy to install and just the basic tools required, you'll be able to construct the deck substructure to a high standard, even if you are a beginner in the industry.
Get in touch with an expert today to discuss your design plans and learn more about the best substructure for your project.