Let’s be honest—building a deck in Spokane isn’t a “set it and forget it” deal. Between the “blink and you’ll miss it” sunshine, moody rain spells, and winters that have no chill (pun absolutely intended), you need a deck that can survive everything our Inland Northwest weather throws at it. But what material actually delivers? Spoiler: Not all decks are created equal.
If you’re itching to turn your backyard into the summer hotspot or just want a place to regret your life choices during February snowmageddons, here are the top 7 decking materials to consider for Spokane—and the brutal truth about each one.
1. Pressure-Treated Wood
Pros:
- Affordable. You won’t have to sell a kidney.
- Easy to find. Even your neighbor’s uncle probably has some in his garage.
- Classic wood look.
Cons:
- High maintenance. Think annual sealing, staining, and emotional support.
- Prone to warping and splinters after a few Spokane freeze-thaw cycles.
- Shorter lifespan compared to some newer materials.
2. Cedar
Pros:
- Natural resistance to rot and insects—nature’s own bug repellent.
- Looks gorgeous—that warm, reddish tone is pure Northwest.
- Smells like you actually go hiking.
Cons:
- More expensive than pressure-treated.
- Still needs maintenance—unless you love the “driftwood chic” gray.
- Soft wood: Dents and scratches if you drop your barbecue tools (again).
3. Redwood
Pros:
- Beautiful grain and rich color. Real head-turner.
- Naturally resists decay.
Cons:
- Pricey. You’ll feel it in your wallet.
- Can be hard to source in Spokane.
- Regular sealing required or it’ll look tired fast.
4. Composite Decking
Pros:
- Low maintenance. Hose it off and call it a day.
- Doesn’t splinter or rot. Spokane snowstorms? No problem.
- Lots of color and style options.
Cons:
- More expensive upfront.
- Can get hot in direct sun (keep those flip-flops handy).
- Looks less “natural” than wood (but some brands are getting close).
5. PVC Decking
Pros:
- Totally waterproof. Laughs in the face of Spokane rain and snow.
- Mold and mildew resistant.
- Virtually maintenance-free.
Cons:
- Plastic feel. Some folks aren’t into it.
- Price tag can sting.
- Limited color range.
6. Aluminum Decking
Pros:
- Lifespan of a vampire. Practically immortal.
- No rust, rot, or bugs.
- Excellent for snow and ice—drains fast, dries even faster.
Cons:
- Expensive upfront.
- Can look a little “commercial.”
- Echoes like a drum when you walk on it—ninja skills not required, but recommended at night.
7. Hardwood (Ipe, Tigerwood, Cumaru)
Pros:
- Super durable. Will outlive your grandkids.
- Exotic beauty. If you want neighbors to stare, this is it.
- Naturally rot and bug resistant.
Cons:
- Very expensive.
- Hard to work with— bring your “A” game (or just hire pros).
- Needs oiling to keep that showroom look.
So, Which Deck Material Should You Choose?
Short answer? It depends on your budget, how much you love (or hate) doing home maintenance, and whether you want your deck to look brand-new ten years from now or you’re fine with a little “weathered” character.
But here’s the real secret: the material only gets you halfway. The other half is having the right team build it—especially when you’re staring down Spokane’s wild weather roulette.
That’s where Lellex Construction comes in. These folks know Spokane inside and out (yes, even the secret spots to get the best coffee during a blizzard). They’ve built everything from dreamy backyard retreats to “I-can’t-believe-that’s-not-a-magazine” decks—all with the skill and local know-how you want.
Ready to make your deck the envy of your block?
Check out Lellex Construction—they’ll help you pick the right material and build it to survive anything Spokane dishes out. Pro tip: Ask them which material they’d choose for their own homes. Spoiler alert: They’ll actually tell you the truth.
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