Aluminum Decking

Key Takeaways:

• Aluminum decking costs $20–$45 per sq ft — the most expensive option but lasts 50+ years
• Completely fireproof (Class A) — the only decking material approved everywhere in BC's wildfire zones
• Zero maintenance forever — no staining, sealing, cleaning, or board replacement
• Interlocking panel systems provide built-in waterproof drainage for under-deck living space
• Made in Canada: AluDek (Quebec) manufactures locally

What Is Aluminum Decking?

Aluminum decking uses extruded aluminum planks with powder-coated finishes in wood-grain textures. The planks interlock to create a watertight surface, unlike wood or composite decking where water drains between boards.

This interlocking design means the space under an aluminum deck stays completely dry — creating usable covered outdoor space below second-story decks. This is a significant advantage for multi-level designs and commercial applications.

Canadian Manufacturers

Brand	Location	Products	Price Range
AluDek	Quebec	Residential + commercial panels	$25–$40/sq ft
Wahoo Decks	Distributed in Canada	Complete deck systems	$30–$45/sq ft
LockDry	US (Canadian dealers)	Waterproof panels	$20–$35/sq ft
Alumadeck	US (Canadian dealers)	Residential panels	$22–$38/sq ft

AluDek is notable as a Quebec-based manufacturer, supporting the Canadian economy and reducing shipping distances for Eastern Canadian projects.

Performance

Fire Rating

Aluminum is non-combustible — it cannot burn, melt below 660°C, or contribute to fire spread. It achieves a Class A fire rating with a flame spread index of 0. This makes it the only universally approved decking material in BC's wildfire interface zones, where composite, PVC, and all wood products face restrictions.

Weather Resistance

Aluminum does not absorb moisture, cannot rot, and is immune to freeze-thaw damage. The powder-coat finish resists UV fading for 25+ years (longer than composite caps). It performs identically in Vancouver's rain, Winnipeg's -40°C, and Halifax's salt air.

Structural Performance

Despite being lightweight (60% lighter than composite), aluminum decking panels are structurally strong enough to span 24" on centre joist spacing without deflection. Some systems allow 32" spacing, reducing substructure cost.

Cost Comparison (300 sq ft, installed)

Material	Total Installed	Lifespan	50-Year Cost
PT Wood	$6,000–$12,000	15–20 yrs	$18,000–$36,000 (3 rebuilds)
Composite	$9,500–$21,500	25–50 yrs	$9,500–$21,500
PVC	$12,700–$25,600	30–50 yrs	$12,700–$25,600
Aluminum	$18,000–$45,000	50+ yrs	$18,000–$45,000

Over a 50-year horizon, aluminum is cost-competitive with composite because it never needs replacement or repair.

Installation Notes

• Specialized installation — aluminum decking uses manufacturer-specific clip and channel systems, not standard screws
• Thermal expansion is managed by engineered expansion joints built into the panel system
• Cutting requires carbide-tipped blades — standard wood blades will not work
• No painting or finishing — the factory powder coat is the permanent finish
• Installation is typically faster than wood or composite due to interlocking panel design

Who Should Choose Aluminum?

Aluminum decking is for homeowners who want a permanent, maintenance-free deck and are willing to pay the premium. Ideal for:

• Wildfire zones in BC and Alberta where other materials are restricted
• Second-story decks where the waterproof under-deck space adds value
• Commercial properties where maintenance costs must be zero
• Waterfront and marine applications where salt air corrodes other materials
• Homeowners who plan to age in place — the deck outlasts them