The Future of Deck Building

The Original Deck Kit has set out to challenge the way decks are built. Deck boards, railings and accessories continue to evolve, but the frame has remained the same. Until now. 

Our revolutionary deck system is a Aluminum framed and engineered for the evolution in deck framing. Like all ODK products, the framing solutions are designed to deliver low-maintenance, durability, ease of installation and safety for the DIYers as well as an easier-to-build, complete system for fewer callbacks for contractors.

As we enter post pandemic normalcy, the construction industry has entered a boom. As we all know, contractors and builders are in no short supply of jobs that need to be done.  This leaves us with more work, less time, and fewer workers.  In addition, there is another obstacle in the way of building new decks: pricing and supply of lumber. For that reason, many contractors and homeowners are now faced with framing their new decks with low quality lumber or jump to the future and build with Aluminum. Below we will look at the pros and cons of steel or lumber framing to help you make the best decision on your next project.

Aluminum Framing vs Wood Framing

Aluminum Framing Pros

Environmentally Friendly: Contrary to what most people think, aluminum is a 100% recyclable and during the recycling process, it retains all of its original properties. During production, it is more cost-effective to use recycled metal than prime metal out of the ground and so, during production, as much recycled material is used as possible.

Durability: One thing aluminum is known for is its ability to withstand over time. As opposed to lumber, aluminum will not warp and will not experience rot as it does not attract insects or pests. Also, with the advantage of aluminum’s durability comes the peace of mind that your deck will not experience warping, twisting, or checking that wood framing is prone to over time.  As a bonus it will never rust.

Long-term costs: If you’ve looked into aluminum framing, you may have noticed a larger upfront cost as opposed to other options. However, it will be worth it over the life of the deck as it will not require as much maintenance or repairs compared to wood-framed decks.  Also, the aluminum framing comes with a lifetime warranty that you will not see with a natural material like wood. 

Fire-retardant: The last thing you want for a new deck is the possibility of it bursting into flames. While unlikely of wood-framed decks, it still is a real possibility. With aluminum frames, you will have a skeleton that is not combustible while also being up-to-code on building and fire codes.

Strength: Whether you want support capacity for your next grad party/family reunion.  In a battle of strength, aluminum will always beat out wood. In turn, that means aluminum will hold up better in the event of a natural disaster. Whether it’s a hurricane, Tornado, or earthquake, your aluminum-framed deck will not fly away or crack. Also, as a huge financial plus, insurance companies look favorably upon aluminum-framed decks as they typically are less of a risk due to their strength.

Wood Framing Pros

Commonality: The main advantage in selecting a wood frame for a deck is the familiarity.  Most, if not all, builders and contractors have built with it. As wood has been the main core material in deck building for decades. Most contractors/builders only offer this option to build your deck. Because of the familiarity, most contractors will price you cheaper as opposed to aluminum.

Short-term cost: Traditionally, wood will always be a cheaper material than aluminum.  Also, due to the familiarity with wood, most contractors can offer you a cheaper price as opposed to aluminum.  The hardware and fasteners are also readily available at any hardware store for ease of use with wood.

Aluminum Framing Cons

Short-term cost: When calculating the budget of a project, the upfront cost will be higher.  Some contractors will be unfamiliar and reluctant to build with aluminum.

Wood Framing Cons

Maintenance: As we’ve covered up to this point, treated wood framing materials can be rot resistant up to 20 years, but comes with plenty of issues. Whether it’s insects, pests, twisting, or warping that affects the integrity of the frame, these are all regular issues wood-framed decks experience. In comparison, steel requires a fraction of the maintenance that wood does.

Long-term costs: Associated with the higher upkeep and maintenance, wood requires a higher cost. With all the possible projects you may need to undertake with a wood-framed deck, you will see an accumulation of costs throughout the years.  This will also cost personal time as well.  Homeowners can plan on 2 weekends of restraining their wood decks every other year.

On a side-by-side comparison, there is no clear winner between metal and wood-framed decks. You will be either paying more upfront and less in the future or less upfront and more in the future. What it really comes down to at this moment in time, with all-time high prices in both aluminum and lumber with limited supply, is your budget and ability to source materials. Whatever type of material you choose to frame your next deck in, make sure you consider both.

KEY FEATURES for ODK’s aluminum Deck kit

EASY TO INSTALL | No previous knowledge of deck building needed. 

STRAIGHT, UNIFORM PIECES | Builds flat, stays flat!

GREATER SPANS | Fewer posts for less obstructed views.

COMPATIBILITY | Works with all our brands of decking and rail.

BEAUTIFUL | The premium Black Sand powder coat provides a pleasing look that virtually disappears.

CLASS-A FIRE RATING | A noncombustible material that’s resistant to fire and meets the requirements for use in all Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) zones.

PROTECTED | Invulnerable to rot. Will not rust.