From traditional cedar decking to modern composite materials, there are many options available to fit your style and budget.
The materials you choose for your deck play an important role in its appearance, durability, and maintenance requirements. From traditional cedar decking to modern composite materials, there are many options available to fit your style and budget. At Harbor Deck & Fence, we help homeowners select the best materials to create a deck that looks great and performs well for years to come.
Cedar decking is a popular natural wood option known for its rich color and natural resistance to moisture and insects. Cedar decks provide a warm, traditional appearance and can be stained or sealed to enhance the wood grain and extend the life of the deck.
Pressure-treated decking is one of the most commonly used materials for deck construction due to its durability and affordability. This type of lumber is typically made from southern yellow pine or Douglas fir, which is placed inside a pressurized chamber where protective preservatives are forced deep into the wood fibers. This treatment process helps protect the wood from rot, moisture, fungal decay, and insect damage.
Composite decking is made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and durable plastics. This material offers excellent durability and requires very little maintenance compared to traditional wood. Composite decks resist fading, moisture, and insects while maintaining a clean modern appearance.
PVC decking is a fully synthetic decking material designed for maximum durability and low maintenance. It resists moisture, mold, and staining, making it an excellent choice for homeowners looking for long-lasting performance with minimal upkeep.
In addition to standard decking materials such as cedar, pressure-treated lumber, and composite decking, we can also source and install a variety of specialty or premium materials depending on your project goals.
Homeowners sometimes choose exotic hardwoods such as IPE, which is known for its exceptional durability, dense structure, and rich natural color. These premium materials offer outstanding longevity and resistance to weather, insects, and wear.
If you have a specific material or lumber type in mind, our team can help source and install it as part of your deck project. We work with a wide range of decking and railing materials to ensure your deck is built according to your preferences, style, and performance expectations.
The structural framing of a deck is what supports the entire structure. Choosing the right framing materials is important for strength, longevity, and resistance to weather and moisture. Depending on the project location and environment, several framing options are available.
Pressure-treated lumber is the most commonly used material for deck framing. The wood is treated with protective preservatives that help resist moisture, rot, insects, and fungal decay. Pressure-treated lumber provides a strong and reliable structure for beams, joists, posts, and other framing components. It is a cost-effective and widely used solution for residential deck construction.
Douglas Fir is known for its excellent structural strength and stability. It is often used for beams, posts, and framing members where higher strength is required. Douglas Fir provides strong support for deck structures and performs well when properly protected and maintained.
Metal deck framing systems provide a durable alternative to traditional wood framing. Aluminum and steel framing materials are designed to resist many of the common issues associated with wood structures, such as rot, warping, and insect damage.
Aluminum deck framing systems are lightweight, corrosion-resistant structural systems designed for long-term durability. Unlike wood framing, aluminum will not rot, warp, crack, or absorb moisture. Because of its excellent resistance to corrosion, aluminum framing is often used in waterfront environments, coastal properties, and areas with high moisture exposure.
Aluminum framing is also easier to handle during installation due to its lighter weight while still providing strong structural support for decking systems.
Steel deck framing systems are another durable alternative to wood framing. Steel is extremely strong and stable, making it well suited for decks that require higher structural strength or longer spans. Many steel framing systems are coated or galvanized to protect against corrosion and weather exposure.
Steel framing is commonly used in premium deck construction, particularly where additional strength and structural stability are required.
Example systems often used:
Fortress Evolution steel framing
Outdure aluminum framing
NewTechWood aluminum systems
Selecting the right framing material is an important part of building a deck that will last for many years. While pressure-treated lumber is the most commonly used framing material for residential decks, certain environments may benefit from more specialized structural systems.
For example, homes located near waterfront areas, coastal environments, or properties exposed to constant moisture may benefit from using metal deck framing systems such as aluminum or steel. These materials are highly resistant to corrosion, rot, and moisture-related deterioration, which can help extend the lifespan of the deck structure.
In areas with heavy rain or high humidity, upgrading to a premium aluminum or steel framing system can provide additional durability and long-term performance compared to traditional wood framing. Our team evaluates each project based on its location, exposure to weather, and structural requirements to help homeowners choose the most appropriate framing solution.
By selecting the right materials from the start, your deck can remain strong, stable, and visually appealing for many years to come.
If you’ve found a design that fits your vision, the next step is selecting the decking materials and railing styles that will complete the project. Explore our Deck Designs and Railing Options pages, or contact us to start planning your custom deck.
Skilled and experienced builders with over 15 years of experience in the field
BBB Accredited Business
Clean and professional installations
Honest pricing with free estimates
Locally trusted contractor serving Tacoma WA and the surrounding areas
We proudly provide professional deck building and outdoor construction services throughout Tacoma and the surrounding communities. Our team works with homeowners to design and build high-quality decks, railings, and outdoor spaces that are built to last.
Whether you’re looking for a new deck installation, deck repair, custom deck design, or railing upgrades, Harbor Deck & Fence is committed to delivering reliable craftsmanship and excellent service.
We currently serve homeowners in:
Tacoma WA
University Place WA
Lakewood WA
Gig Harbor WA
Puyallup WA
Fircrest WA
Steilacoom WA
Ruston WA
If you are located nearby and would like to discuss your deck project, feel free to contact us for a free estimate. Our team would be happy to help plan your next outdoor project.
If you’re planning a new deck or considering replacing an existing one, contact Harbor Deck And Fence today to schedule a consultation and get a Free Estimate.
A deck builder in Tacoma like Harbor Deck & Fence offers design, custom deck construction, material selection, installation, repairs, and maintenance for residential and commercial decks.
Choosing a custom deck builder in Tacoma ensures your outdoor space is tailored to your property, lifestyle, and budget — with expert craftsmanship and local code compliance.
Deck costs vary by size, materials, and design complexity, but most Tacoma WA deck builds range from $X – $Y per square foot. Contact Harbor Deck & Fence for a free estimate.
Tacoma deck builders often recommend pressure-treated wood, cedar, composite decking, and PVC based on durability, maintenance, and budget.
Most custom deck projects in Tacoma take 1–3 weeks from planning to completion, depending on weather, permits, and design.
Yes, most decks require a building permit in Tacoma. A professional deck builder in Tacoma can handle permitting for you.
Ask about experience, warranty, timeline, materials, cost breakdown, and whether they handle permits — Harbor Deck & Fence answers all these.
Yes! Harbor Deck & Fence offers free estimates to help you plan your dream deck in Tacoma, WA.
Standard builders use pre-designed plans, while custom deck builders in Tacoma design unique outdoor spaces tailored to your needs.
Tacoma deck builders choose weather-resistant materials and construction techniques suited for the Pacific Northwest climate.
Composite, cedar, and Doug fir wood are popular in Tacoma due to moisture resistance and lifespan.
Clear debris, mark utilities, and ensure easy access — Harbor Deck & Fence will guide you through prep steps.
With quality materials and proper maintenance, a Tacoma deck can last 20+ years, especially when built by professionals.
Reputable custom deck builders in Tacoma are fully insured, licensed, and bonded for your protection.
Yes! Many Tacoma contractors like Harbor Deck & Fence specialize in fences, pergolas, and other outdoor structures.
Adding a professionally built deck can significantly increase home value and curb appeal in the Tacoma housing market.
They follow building codes, use quality fasteners, proper framing techniques, and weather-resistant materials.
Absolutely! Custom deck builders in Tacoma can integrate lighting, built-in seating, stairs, and railings.
Most Tacoma deck builders schedule projects within 2–6 weeks, depending on workload and season.
Harbor Deck & Fence combines local expertise, quality materials, custom design, reliable scheduling, and 5-star service for every Tacoma deck project.
