Deck Materials
What kind of wood should you use for your new deck? Lumber options are limited since the framing should all be pressure-treated pine or the heartwood of decay-resistant species such as redwood or cedar to prevent moisture decay (required by code in most areas) and the sizes are determined by the plan.
Pressure-treated pine, cedar and redwood are all popular choices. Each type resists moisture decay, and even though they look very different when new, they all weather to a similar shade of gray. Wood composites are also a good choice. Different colors are available but all will also weather to a gray color in time.
Note that columns and posts in contact with the ground or embedded in concrete must be of special pressure-treated wood approved for ground contact
Take your measurements to your local home center or lumberyard. Most will be able to estimate how much lumber and materials you will need and will deliver them to your home when you’re ready to start your project.