Building a new deck or upgrading your outdoor space is a fantastic way to boost your home’s value and create a place for unforgettable memories. If you’re searching for the best deck supplies Salt Lake City has to offer, you’re in the right spot—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started on your dream deck.
Where to Find Quality Deck Supplies in Salt Lake City
Building a deck is more than just stacking boards; it’s about creating an outdoor oasis for family gatherings and quiet mornings. Honestly, the key to a truly remarkable deck lies in the quality of the materials. With the average deck in Salt Lake City costing anywhere from $4,000 to $15,000, your material choice is a significant investment. We’re here to help you make sure that investment stands up to Utah’s unique climate.
Here are the top sources for deck supplies in the Salt Lake City area:
| Store Type | What They Offer | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Specialized Deck Suppliers | Trex, TimberTech, Deckorators, Fiberon composite decking; complete railing systems; framing hardware; expert guidance | Contractors and homeowners who need technical support, accurate takeoffs, and immediate pickup |
| Wholesale Distributors | Bulk materials, contractor pricing, jobsite delivery | High-volume crews and professional builders |
| General Home Improvement Stores | Basic lumber, limited composite options, general hardware | Simple repairs or small projects with flexible timelines |
Key brands available locally: Trex, TimberTech, Deckorators, Fiberon, RDI, Cinch, Fortress, and RailFX.
What you’ll need beyond decking boards: Railing systems (aluminum, steel, cable, vinyl), joist hangers, structural screws, deck footings, flashings, fasteners, and optional upgrades like pergola kits and lighting.
Typical project costs: Building a deck in Salt Lake City ranges from $4,000 to $15,000 depending on size and materials. Composite decking runs $10–$30 per square foot installed, while wood decking costs $5–$15 per square foot installed.
I’m James Bonham, co-founder of Utah Deck Supply. After years in the industry with Trex Company, I learned the ins and outs of composite decking. We built Utah Deck Supply to solve the common frustrations contractors and homeowners face: finding consistent stock, getting expert advice, and even tracking down discontinued boards for repairs. We’re a specialized decking superstore built for you.
Choosing the Right Deck Supplies in Salt Lake City
When starting a deck project, choosing the right material is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. It impacts cost, installation, and long-term maintenance. We’re here to simplify it and help you select materials that fit your budget and lifestyle. For a deeper dive, check out our guide on Decking Materials Compared: Pros and Cons.
Decking Materials 101: Wood vs. Composite vs. PVC
Let’s break down the primary decking materials you’ll find when searching for deck supplies Salt Lake City: wood, composite, and PVC.
1. Wood Decking:
The classic choice, wood offers a natural and timeless appeal. Common options include pressure-treated lumber, cedar, and premium hardwoods like IPE.
- Benefits: It has a lower upfront cost ($5-$15/sq ft installed) and can be stained or painted for a custom look. The organic feel is hard to replicate.
- Drawbacks: The biggest downside is high maintenance. Wood requires regular cleaning, staining, and sealing to prevent rot, warping, and splinters. Without it, its lifespan is shorter, especially in Utah’s climate.
2. Composite Decking:
A popular, low-maintenance choice made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastics. Most modern boards are “capped” with a durable polymer shell for extra protection.
- Benefits: This is the “set it and forget it” option. It resists fading, staining, scratching, and mold with no need for staining or sealing. It comes in many colors, is often made from recycled materials, and includes long warranties (usually 25+ years).
- Drawbacks: The initial cost is higher ($10-$30/sq ft installed), and darker colors can get hot in direct sun. For more, read The Ultimate Guide to Composite Decking.
3. PVC Decking (Plastic Decking):
Made from 100% synthetic plastic, PVC is the ultimate choice for durability and minimal upkeep.
- Benefits: It’s virtually maintenance-free and completely impervious to moisture, making it perfect for poolside decks or snowy climates. It’s highly resistant to scratches, stains, and mold, and often offers great slip resistance.
- Drawbacks: PVC typically has the highest initial cost. While designs are improving, some find it looks less natural than wood or composite. It also expands and contracts with temperature, requiring careful installation. Learn more from The Ultimate Guide to PVC Decking.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you visualize the differences:
| Feature | Wood Decking | Composite Decking | PVC Decking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | Low ($5-$15/sq ft installed) | Moderate to High ($10-$30/sq ft installed) | High (often higher than composite) |
| Maintenance | High (cleaning, staining, sealing annually) | Low (occasional cleaning) | Very Low (occasional cleaning) |
| Durability in Utah Climate | Good, with regular maintenance (prone to weathering) | Excellent (resistant to fade, stain, mold, insects) | Superior (impervious to moisture, scratches, stains) |
| Eco-Friendliness | Varies (can be sustainable if sourced responsibly) | Good (often made from recycled materials) | Good (can be made from recycled plastics) |
| Warranties | Limited, if any (material defects) | Long (25-year minimum, often fade & stain too) | Very Long (often 25-50 years) |
Best Deck Materials for the Salt Lake City Climate
Salt Lake City’s climate is tough on outdoor structures, with hot, high-UV summers and cold, snowy winters. The constant freeze-thaw cycles can be brutal. So, what’s best for this environment? Honestly, for a low-maintenance, long-lasting solution, composite and PVC decking are your best bet.
- Composite Decking: Its engineered design resists splintering and cracking from freeze-thaw cycles, and the capped surface protects against UV fading and moisture.
- PVC Decking: As a 100% synthetic product, it’s impervious to moisture from snowmelt and is highly resistant to mold.
While wood is an option, it requires diligent annual maintenance to survive Utah’s weather extremes. Our article on Decking Materials That Withstand the Elements digs into this further.
Leading Brands and Railing Options Available at Utah Deck Supply
We pride ourselves on stocking the industry’s most reputable brands, known for quality, durability, and innovation. Our selection of composite decking includes:
- Trex Decking: A pioneer in the industry, known for durability and a wide range of styles. Find more about Trex Decking.
- TimberTech Decking: Famous for realistic wood aesthetics and high-performance resistance to fading and staining. Explore our TimberTech options.
- Deckorators: This brand stands out for its innovative and unique designs.
- Fiberon Decking: Offers a great balance of beauty, durability, and value.
A huge benefit is the warranty coverage—most of these brands offer a minimum 25-year warranty, often including fade and stain resistance, for incredible peace of mind.
Of course, no deck is complete without a safe, stylish railing. We offer a comprehensive range of systems to complement any design:
- Trex Railing: Designed for a cohesive look with Trex decking.
- RDI Railing: Versatile and low-maintenance railing systems.
- Cinch Steel Railing: Robust and sleek steel options.
- Fortress Railing: Durable steel and aluminum systems.
- RailFX Railing: Specializes in modern cable railings for unobstructed views.
Whether you want aluminum, steel, cable, or composite, we have a system to lift your deck’s safety and aesthetic. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Deck Railing System.
Essential Framing, Hardware, and Safety Considerations
You know, a deck is only as strong as its foundation. While the deck boards get the attention, the framing and hardware are the unsung heroes. Don’t skimp here!
1. Deck Framing:
Your deck’s skeleton, typically built from pressure-treated lumber, must be strong enough to handle people, furniture, and heavy Utah snow loads. Using the right lumber and correct joist/beam spans is critical for a stable, long-lasting deck.
2. Essential Hardware:
Quality hardware is a small investment that pays off big in safety.
- Joist Hangers & Structural Screws: These are non-negotiable for creating strong, reliable connections that far outperform traditional nails.
- Deck Screws: Use high-quality, corrosion-resistant screws to attach deck boards and prevent staining.
- Footings & Flashings: Proper footings anchor your deck to the ground, while flashing protects your house from water damage where the deck attaches. Both are critical for safety and preventing costly repairs.
3. Deck Safety and Building Codes:
Safety isn’t a suggestion; it’s a requirement. All deck construction in the Salt Lake City area must follow local building codes, which dictate everything from railing height to footing depth. Always check with your local municipality for permit requirements before you start. Our team can provide in-person guidance on codes and best practices to ensure your deck is safe and compliant. For more, see our Deck Safety Checklist: Ensuring Your Deck is Secure.
Your Deck Project from Start to Finish
Building a deck is an exciting journey, but it requires a good map. We believe in empowering you with the tools and knowledge you need, whether you’re a seasoned contractor or a first-time DIYer. Our goal is to guide you through every step, ensuring your project is a success. You can gain further insights from our Deck Building 101: From Concept to Completion.
Finding Design Inspiration and Local Support
Where do you even begin dreaming up a new deck? Inspiration is everywhere, and so are the tools to help.
- Get Inspired: Use online tools like the Custom Deck Designer to play with layouts, but honestly, nothing beats seeing materials in person. Our showroom lets you walk on different surfaces and see how colors look in real life.
- Get Expert Advice: This is where we shine. Our team offers in-person guidance on everything from materials and local codes to installation best practices. We’re here to answer your questions.
- Think Beyond the Deck: Transform your deck into a true outdoor living room with pergola kits for shade or deck lighting for ambiance and safety. Explore our Gallery for more ideas.
Where to Find the Best Deck Supplies in Salt Lake City
So, where can you find specialty deck supplies Salt Lake City residents and contractors trust? While big-box stores might seem convenient, they often lack specialized inventory and expert advice. For a project this important, you need a partner who lives and breathes decking.
We are Utah Deck Supply, Utah’s “Deck Super Store.” We focus exclusively on decking, railing, and everything in between. Here’s why a specialized supplier makes all the difference:
- Deep, In-Stock Inventory: We stock top brands like Trex, TimberTech, Deckorators, and Fiberon, so you won’t face project delays from backorders.
- Immediate Pickup: See products in our showroom and take them home the same day. No waiting for shipments.
- Knowledgeable Guidance: Our experts provide in-person advice on materials, local codes, and installation, saving you from costly mistakes.
- One-Stop Shop: We have it all—deck boards, complete railing systems (Trex, RDI, Cinch, Fortress, RailFX), fasteners, hardware, and even pergola kits.
- Project Support: Building new, renovating, or just need a repair? We can even source discontinued items for warranty work.
- Serving All of Utah: While based in West Jordan, we serve homeowners and contractors across the state, including Salt Lake City, West Valley City, Provo, St. George, Orem, Sandy, Lehi, Ogden, South Jordan, Layton, Millcreek, Draper, Saratoga Springs, Herriman, Logan, Eagle Mountain, Taylorsville, and Murray.
Experience the difference a specialized deck supplier makes. Stop by, chat with our experts, and let us help you turn your deck dreams into a reality. Contact Us today or Request a Quote for your project.
