5 Luxurious Deck Materials Recommended by the Best Deck Contractors

Deck contractors agree that choosing the right materials is one of the most important steps when planning a luxury deck build. If you're extending your outdoor space or building from scratch, understanding what materials offer the best mix of durability and design can help guide your decisions. Today, we'll highlight five premium options favoured by experienced deck builders.

Key Takeaways

• Tropical hardwoods, redwood, cedar, bluestone, and aluminum are top picks for luxury decks.
• Each material offers unique benefits in terms of durability, maintenance, and overall appearance.
• Design elements and modern features can greatly influence how a deck looks, feels, and functions.

What Defines a Luxury Deck? 

A high-end deck isn’t just about material quality; it’s also about design, features, and execution. The following factors usually separate standard builds from luxury outdoor spaces.

High-End Decking Materials to Consider

Selecting the right material can define the shape, cost, and life of your new deck. Here's a breakdown of five high-end materials that combine visual appeal with performance, based on contractor insights.

Tropical Hardwoods

"Tropical hardwoods are known for their density, hardness, and resistance to decay. These species naturally withstand moisture and pests."

Homeowners will surely love their rich colour and grain patterns, which offer an unmatched high-end look. Some of the popular tropical hardwoods include:

• Ipe
• Ebony
• Mahogany
• Narra
• Rosewood
• Teak

However, these woods require pre-drilling for fasteners, and cutting or shaping them may slow the construction stage. This also requires professional builders to do proper installation. On the good side, with proper maintenance practices, tropical hardwood decks can last over 30 years.

So, if you're a homeowner who wants a natural appearance with durability, a deck made with tropical hardwood is a good option. The cost is quite high because it reflects the harvesting and import process. Despite the price, it's a premium material that can elevate any outdoor space.

Redwood

Redwood remains a top choice for its natural beauty, low shrinkage, and straight grain. It’s easier to work with than tropical hardwoods and resists warping. The heartwood is naturally decay-resistant, which makes it a practical choice for decks in wetter climates.

Deck contractors usually recommend redwood for projects requiring both form and function. "Lighter than ipe but still strong, redwood supports custom cuts and design flexibility."

However, to maintain its rich tone and luxurious look, redwood needs resealing every few years. It pairs well with both traditional and modern features, which offer a balance of performance and visual warmth. Keep in mind that the cost varies by location and grade.

Cedar

Cedar is popular with deck builders for its insect resistance. It offers a softer texture than tropical hardwoods but still performs well when properly sealed. Cedar is easier to install, ideal for projects with tight timelines or complex shapes.

"It's available in several grades, with clear cedar being more uniform in appearance. Homeowners should know that it weathers to a silver-grey if not treated, which can be a desirable look in some outdoor living spaces."

Cedar is suitable for families seeking a traditional wood look with moderate upkeep. It accepts stains and finishes well.

Bluestone

Bluestone is a high-end natural stone option perfect for ground-level decks or patios. It brings a refined, architectural feel that pairs beautifully with modern home designs. Known for its dense composition, bluestone offers excellent durability and traction, even when wet.

"It handles seasonal freeze-thaw cycles better than many other stones, which reduces cracking or chipping. But since it's heavier than wood or composite decking, professional installation is strongly recommended."

If you're planning to use bluestone on your deck, you should prepare for a higher cost and a longer installation stage. But the final results are really worth it. Besides, you can choose the type of finish, including:

• Sawn thermal (mostly smooth)
• Natural cleft (semi-rough)
• Honed
• Sandblasted

"It's an excellent match for homes seeking a luxury finish that won’t require frequent maintenance."

Aluminum

Aluminum decking is gaining popularity among homeowners wanting low maintenance, fire resistance, and sleek aesthetics. Unlike wood or plastic, aluminum won’t warp, crack, or host mould. Beyond that, deck contractors recommend using aluminum because:

• Offers excellent safety for poolside decks and second-story builds due to its slip-resistant texture and high load-bearing capacity.
• The interlocking planks prevent water intrusion and improve drainage. Though it lacks the warmth of wood fibres, its clean look suits contemporary homes.
• Aluminum is lightweight, which makes the installation stage more efficient for crews.

"It often comes with warranties extending beyond 20 years, which makes it a smart investment. For families wanting a safe, durable deck with minimal upkeep, aluminum remains one of the best choices."

Luxury Upgrades That Make a Difference

Imagine your family gathering on a custom-built deck—kids splashing in the pool, friends relaxing near a fire pit, and soft lighting around cable rails. These features aren’t just nice to have. They add purpose, value, and enjoyment to your outdoor space. For inspiration, here are some upgrades that you may want to consider:



• Fire Pit Zones: Adds warmth and atmosphere for cooler evenings. Works well with bluestone or Trex decking. It also serves as a focal point for your deck. The integration of fire pits within the deck brings a blend of modernity and tradition.
• Poolside Decking: Durable materials like aluminum or bluestone increase safety and lower maintenance near water. A poolside deck is a perfect way to enjoy outdoor luxury. Smooth wood, cozy loungers, and tropical plants create a relaxing vibe. Add LED lights to make it fun and inviting.
• Sleek Cable Railing System: Offers safety without obstructing city views, which makes it ideal for yards with scenic access points. Cable railings add a modern touch to luxury decks. This feature seamlessly integrates with various deck styles, including both wood and steel. 
• Unique Privacy Divisions: Lattice screens or plant walls provide shade, seclusion, and design interest. These divisions are utilized to section off parts of the deck to create functional, secluded spots that may otherwise feel out of place in an open design.

Transform Your Yard Today – Build a Deck with Victoria Deck & Fence

Your new deck should be more than just an add-on—it should suit your life, your yard, and your house. A reliable builder will guide you through budget, warranties, safety, and paperwork (permits) to deliver quality results.



To guarantee expertise, contact Victoria Deck & Fence for luxury deck building services performed by skilled trades and a knowledgeable team of builders. Get a free estimate and move forward with your decking plan.