When it comes to framing your deck, the material you choose for your substructure can determine the longevity, safety, and overall performance of your outdoor space. While traditional lumber has been a standard option for years, TimberTech Aluminum Framing provides a superior alternative and delivers notable benefits in several important areas where traditional wood falls short. Here are a few key conditions and scenarios where opting for TimberTech Aluminum Framing over lumber for your deck substructure is a good idea.
- When durability and low maintenance are a priority
- In fire-prone regions
- For easy install
- To meet aesthetic goals
- When sustainability matters
When Durability and Low Maintenance are a Priority
If you’re building a deck in an area with extreme weather conditions — such as heavy rainfall, snow, or intense heat — traditional lumber may warp, crack, or rot over time. TimberTech Aluminum Framing, on the other hand, is engineered to withstand the elements without degrading. Its corrosion-resistant material composition helps ensure that your deck substructure remains sturdy in the face of harsh climate or weather conditions when compared to wood. Additionally, the tops of aluminum framing joists don’t need to be protected with joist tape (an additional protective measure commonly used on wood deck framing to resist moisture intrusion).
Wood also requires regular staining, sealing, and inspections to maintain its structural integrity and appearance. If you choose a lower-maintenance, longer-lasting deck board material like TimberTech Advanced PVC or Composite Decking, it follows that you’d want a substructure material with the same low maintenance and long-lasting benefits. If your deck surface will last decades, the last thing you’d want is to pull up perfectly good deck boards to conduct substructure maintenance or repairs. Unlike wood, aluminum does not decay or need routine upkeep, making it a longer-lasting substructure alternative, more on par with engineered decking alternatives that are installed on it.
This is all especially important for low-profile decks. Being closer to the ground makes wood framing even more vulnerable to failure from moisture intrusion as well as more difficult to get under for inspections or repair.
In Fire-Prone Regions
Homes in wildfire-prone areas demand extra precautions against fire hazards. Traditional wood framing lumber is often highly combustible and can pose a serious risk in such environments, especially when in close proximity to your home (like an attached deck or rooftop deck). TimberTech’s non-combustible and Class A Flame Spread Rated Aluminum Framing creates a better option for your deck, helping ensure that your deck substructure resists catching fire and contributing to the spread of flames. Combining Aluminum Framing with a Class-A-Flame-Spread-Rated deck boards, such as those from the TimberTech Vintage, Landmark or Harvest+ collection, further enhances this home hardening effort.
For Easy Install
TimberTech Aluminum Framing installs incredibly flat — something very important for the substructure for composite decking. This initial and long-lasting flatness is something wood cannot claim. Over time, wood can also twist and move, making a composite deck surface wavy.
Aluminum is generally 40% lighter than wood and 20% lighter than steel, making it easier to transport and move around your job site. This is an important consideration for both DIYers and pros, streamlining project times and potentially reducing the crew size needed (not to mention aching backs).
To Meet Aesthetic Goals
Functional benefits aside, TimberTech Aluminum Framing adds a thoughtfully designed, modern look to your deck build. Its aesthetic complements a wide range of design styles and decking colors. When metal is used to frame a deck, the substructure often becomes part of an integrated design vision for the space. The clean lines pair well with modern and contemporary outdoor living trends, elevating the visual appeal of an outdoor space. Because of its appearance, you may potentially forgo fascia boards on your project, thanks to its sleek look and hidden hardware system. This choice would look “unfinished” using traditional wood framing, but TimberTech Aluminum Framing becomes a visually pleasing part of the deck design, not something to be covered up.
When Sustainability Matters
For environmentally conscious builders and homeowners, TimberTech Aluminum Framing is made from recycled aluminum. Additionally, while wood is a single use product, aluminum scraps can be recycled. When the project also includes TimberTech Decking (made form up to 65%-85% recycled material), it creates an eco-conscious solution for modern outdoor living spaces.
Aluminum Framing is the Best Choice for Modern Builds
While traditional lumber substructures might be sufficient for very basic applications and extremely mild climates, TimberTech Aluminum Framing is the standout choice when durability, low maintenance, fire resistance, sustainability, or aesthetics are essential. Whether you’re building a deck in a wildfire-prone region or simply seeking a foundation that lasts for generations, TimberTech Aluminum Framing is the forward-thinking solution.
Choose TimberTech Aluminum Framing and build your deck with confidence, knowing it’s built to last. Get started on your project today.
Bring the Beauty of TimberTech to Your Backyard
Work with a TimberTech pro for a build that transforms your outdoor living space.
