Step 03 · Decking

The part you actually see.

This is the choice most clients spend the most time on. We'll show you samples on-site and walk through how each one handles Utah's sun, snow, and dry heat.

Pressure-Treated Pine

The budget standard.

Best for: Budget-driven builds, rentals, or decks you plan to upgrade later.

Pros

Cheapest material by a wide margin
Readily available and easy to replace boards
Holds stain well if maintained

Cons

Requires staining/sealing every 1–2 years
Will splinter and check over time
10–15 year lifespan in Utah sun

Cedar

Warm, natural, classic.

Best for: Clients who want the look and smell of real wood without going to hardwood prices.

Pros

Naturally rot- and insect-resistant
Beautiful grain, ages to silver-grey if untreated
Cooler underfoot than composite

Cons

Still needs annual maintenance to stay looking new
Softer than other woods — dents easier
Price volatile in Utah

Zbolt Pick

Capped Composite (Trex, TimberTech)

$$$

Most-picked. For good reason.

Best for: Almost everyone. Low-maintenance, looks great, lasts 25+ years.

Pros

No staining, sealing, or sanding — ever
Fade- and stain-resistant cap
25-year warranties from major brands
Hidden fastener systems for a clean look

Cons

Gets hot in direct Utah sun (lighter colors help)
2–3× the price of PT
Heavier than wood — framing must be on-spec

PVC Decking (Azek, TimberTech Advanced)

$$$$

Plastic, top of the line.

Best for: Pool decks, hot-tub surrounds, shaded second-story decks where heat isn't a concern.

Pros

Fully waterproof, won't fade or mildew
Lightest decking option
Stays cooler than composite in some colors
30–50 year lifespans common

Cons

Most expensive mainstream option
Can feel less like real wood than capped composite
Expansion/contraction must be detailed correctly

Tropical Hardwood (Ipe, Cumaru)

$$$$

Showpiece-only.

Best for: High-end custom decks where the look is the whole point.

Pros

Stunning natural grain and color
Naturally bug- and rot-resistant
40+ year lifespan

Cons

Very expensive and supply is inconsistent
Needs annual oiling to stay rich-toned
Pre-drilling required — slow to install

Real Jobs

Decking we've done

Trex Transcend Spiced Rum — Lehi in Lehi — Z-Bolt Decks — Trex Transcend Spiced Rum — Lehi
Lehi · 2024

TimberTech AZEK in Slate Gray — Draper in Draper — Z-Bolt Decks — TimberTech AZEK in Slate Gray — Draper
Draper · 2024

Cedar with picture-frame border — Provo in Provo — Z-Bolt Decks — Cedar with picture-frame border — Provo
Provo · 2023

Talk Directly With The Builder

Schedule your deck consultation.

Free on-site walkthroughs across sandy to santaquin — all of utah county. We'll review your space, your budget, footing & framing options, and the build that fits your needs — not industry standard.

(801) 555-0123 See our process →

Start with a realistic deck budget

Tell us about the project and we'll be in touch to schedule your consultation.