Deck Comparisons
Straight answers to the choices every deck buyer makes, side by side.
Wood vs composite decking
Both make a great deck. The difference is upfront cost versus long-term upkeep.
Prime pressure treated 2x6
- •Lowest upfront cost.
- •Joists set 24 inches on center.
- •Classic wood look that can be stained any color.
- •Needs a stain or sealer every few years to keep its color.
Best if you want the most deck for your budget.
Fiberon composite
- •Higher upfront cost, very little upkeep.
- •Joists set 16 inches on center.
- •No staining or sealing.
- •Fiberon's 25-year stain and fade warranty.
Best if you want low maintenance for years to come.
Attached vs freestanding deck
Both are great options, and it's your choice. We build both.
Attached
- •Connected to your home, mobile home or manufactured home.
- •Feels like a built-in part of the house.
- •Great for permanent homes where the deck will stay put.
Best if you want the deck tied into the home.
Freestanding
- •Stands on its own, either portable and set on blocks or concreted in. It's completely customer preference.
- •No extra cost.
- •Easy to relocate if you move.
Best if you may move the deck someday.
Pergola vs covered patio or covered deck
It comes down to how much shade and rain protection you want.
Pergola
- •Open slats give filtered sunlight.
- •Adds style and a sense of space.
- •Lets breeze and light through.
Best if you want partial shade and an open-air feel.
Covered patio or deck
- •Solid metal roof for full shade.
- •Keeps you dry when it rains.
- •Usable in more weather, more of the year.
Best if you want full shade and rain protection.
Portable decks on blocks vs decks concreted into the ground
How the deck sits on the ground decides whether it can move with you.
Portable on blocks
- •Pressure treated beams set on blocks.
- •Portable, so the deck can be relocated.
- •A common choice for RVs, mobile homes and above-ground pools.
Best if you want a deck that can go with you.
Concreted into the ground
- •Posts anchored in the ground.
- •Permanent and stays with the property.
- •Good for sloped yards and taller decks.
Best if the deck is staying put for good.
Open deck vs covered deck
Both are built the same way underneath. The difference is what's overhead.
Open deck
- •Full sun and open sky.
- •Lower cost.
- •Great for pools, entry decks and evening use.
Best if you want sunshine and the most deck for your budget.
Covered deck
- •The roof is built right onto the deck framing.
- •Pick a metal roof color to match your home.
- •Shields the deck boards from sun and rain, so they hold up longer.
Best if you want shade and rain protection over the deck.
Cash vs rent-to-own vs financing
Same quality deck either way. The only difference is how you pay.
Cash
- •25% down.
- •Balance due on completion.
- •You own it from day one.
Best if you want to buy it outright.
Rent-to-own
- •No credit check.
- •First payment due 30 days after the deck is built at your house or pool.
- •Financing through our lending partner is also available, with a credit check.
Best if you want no credit check and to get started fast.
Want the details on what goes into every deck? See our materials, deck permits by city and custom decks.
Still deciding?
Design it in our 3D deck builder or call (817) 809-4791.