12 Safe, Stylish and Sturdy Decks

4.  Trex Composite Decking  

One of the first wood-mimicking composite decking materials on the market, and the largest in the US, Trex is about 50% recycled and reclaimed plastic, and 50% reclaimed wood and sawdust that would otherwise have gone into landfills. Trex recycles seven out of every ten plastic grocery bags used in this country! The average 500-square foot composite Trex deck contains about 140,000 recycled plastic bags. The low-maintenance wood-plastic composite (WPC) decking requires no stain or preservatives, but does need regular cleanings with soap and water as mold, mildew, grease and other stains are possible.

5. TimberTech Composite Decking

If you dig color, and depending on where you live, another composite-decking brand is TimberTech. Made with recycled wood waste  that would otherwise end up in landfills, the deck, too, needs no staining or sealing. Click here for a dealer near you. 

6. Evolve Recycled Plastic Decking

For all you plastic-phobes, there is such a thing as pure plastic, like the stuff in Evolve decks that comes from post-consumer and post-industrial material. Containing over 90% recycled high density polyethylene (ReHDPE) material, Evolve is PVC- and BPA-free, and 100% recyclable, unlike wood-plastic composites. Because Evolve doesn't absorb water, it won't harbor mold, although it does need to be hosed down monthly to keep it looking clean. Call 1-800-666-5207 for more information.

7. Renew Resources Recycled Plastic Deck Tiles

Manufactured from recycled plastic products, Renew Resources deck tiles come completely pre-assembled, making installation quick and easy. Unique riser strips on the underside of these tiles keep them above ground,  allowing rain to properly drain. Although primarily built to cover concrete surfaces, including roof tops, patios and balconies, the tiles can be laid directly on the ground in any pattern for temporary or permanent yard patios. Call 1-800-439-5028, for more info, or email sales@renewresources.com

8. Eco Woods California Decking Tiles

For do-it-yourselfers, Eco Woods California Deck Tiles can be snapped together with ease, requiring no hardware or adhesives for installation. Crafted of highly durable Bolivian ipe wood, it naturally resists rot, decay, insects, and mold without chemical preservatives. The wood is harvested by the strictest environmental standards, and a variety of tile patterns lets you put your design talents to work.