Home Construction Materials in St. Louis

If you’re getting ready to start an outdoor construction project in the St. Louis area, we’ve got the building materials you need.

Whether you’re a general construction industry contractor completing a home improvement project for a client, or a homeowner completing a DIY building project, our supplies will enhance any outdoor space.

Supplying DIYers and Contractors in the St. Louis Area

We provide general contractors and do-it-yourselfers across the greater St. Louis area with top-notch construction supplies.

No matter the outdoor project you’re developing, we’ve got the building products for you, whether it’s:

  • Decking
  • Fencing
  • Railing
  • Patios
  • Gazebos
  • Pergolas
  • Porches
  • And much more!

But more than just construction products, you need an efficient solution that’s going to give you the most bang for your buck. Our experts have installed all these types of projects in the greater St. Louis area for over 30 years, giving us the acumen necessary to provide the best guidance and peace of mind in the outdoor living space.

Types Of Construction Supplies

Like any major home project, outdoor construction materials vary in looks, durability, and cost. Here is some need-to-know information about the types of building supply materials we offer and how they can apply to you.

Composite Materials

Composite decking materials are prevalent these days because they are durable, versatile, high-quality, low-maintenance, and the best in sustainability.

These boards and frames, consisting of a combination of recycled plastic and wood fibers, mimic the look and feel of real wood deck boards. These properties allow them to provide a similar aesthetic as real wood without the structural drawbacks.

With options like TimberTech and Trex, our earth-friendly composites are a great fit for almost any deck project in St. Louis. They can provide an excellent touch to a gazebo, set a perimeter as fencing boards, or be used to complete a decking system. It all comes down to user preference.

PVC Materials

PVC boards, often referred to as plastic or synthetic materials, are another common outdoor decking option for St. Louis homeowners.

This material is lightweight and has the same density as white pine, a softwood. These plastic properties give your deck or fence a cool, modern look with some reasonable functionality to boot. PVC decking boards don’t rot, and you’ll never need to apply any finish to it, so the upkeep is pretty straightforward.

These also come in a variety of styles and colors, allowing St. Louis homeowners to mix and match until you’re 100% happy with the look.

Wood Materials

At Outdoor Living Inc., we offer pressure-treated lumber, but do not provide alternative wood species or other hardwood decking materials.

Wood decks often require ongoing maintenance, including annual sanding and staining, and are more susceptible to mildew, splinters, termites, and fire damage than composite or PVC alternatives.

Our experts can help you compare the benefits and considerations of each decking material to determine the best fit for your home and lifestyle.

Aluminum Materials

Aluminum materials provide a particular style to any home improvement venture, especially when it comes to aluminum railings.

This metal is by far the most durable type on the market. In most scenarios, they’ll outlast wood and composite boards by decades. They’re also low-maintenance, requiring almost no upkeep over time.

The utility that aluminum provides is very well-suited for railing systems. We supply contractors with the most cost-effective and sturdy aluminum railing materials to fit any project at your home or job site. They work great as fences or deck railings.

Steel Materials

Steel deck framing materials revolutionize the world of deck construction, offering a durable and waterproof alternative to traditional wood framing.

With its exceptional strength, dimensional stability, and resistance to rot and insects, steel deck framing provides a reliable foundation for decks that can withstand the test of time. This innovative framing solution allows for greater design flexibility and craftsmanship, enabling the creation of expansive, open deck spaces with fewer support posts.

Whether it’s for homeowners or commercial deck builders, a steel framing system offers unmatched durability, ease of installation, and long-term performance, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a reliable and low-maintenance deck structure.

Other Construction Supplies

In addition to board materials, we also supply all the tools that bring these projects together. Whatever you can think of that you’ll need for a new deck, fence, railing, or gazebo, we’ve got the materials in St. Louis to make it happen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Living Materials

The best decking material depends on your budget, maintenance preferences, and how you use your outdoor space. Composite decking is a popular choice because it offers long-lasting durability with minimal upkeep, while PVC decking provides exceptional moisture resistance. If you prefer the look of natural wood, pressure-treated lumber remains an option, although it requires significantly more maintenance over time.

Both materials are designed to be low-maintenance, but they have some key differences. Composite decking is made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastics, while PVC decking is made entirely from synthetic materials. PVC typically offers greater moisture resistance, while composite provides a more natural wood appearance.

Composite and PVC decking can last for decades when installed correctly and cared for according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Unlike traditional wood, these materials resist rot, insect damage, and splintering, making them an excellent long-term investment for homeowners.

Like nearly every outdoor surface, composite decking can become warm during direct sunlight. Lighter colors generally stay cooler than darker boards, and many modern decking manufacturers have developed technologies that help reduce heat absorption. Adding shade structures or strategically placing furniture and rugs can also improve comfort during the hottest months.

Most composite decking products are manufactured with textured surfaces that provide traction in wet conditions. While no outdoor surface is completely slip-proof, composite decking is designed to perform well around pools, patios, and other outdoor living areas.

Pressure-treated wood remains a budget-friendly decking material that offers a traditional appearance. However, homeowners should be prepared for regular maintenance, including cleaning, sanding, sealing, and staining to protect the wood from weather, moisture, insects, and everyday wear.

PVC decking generally requires the least maintenance because it will not absorb moisture and never needs sanding or staining. Composite decking is also very easy to maintain and usually only requires occasional cleaning with soap and water to keep it looking its best.

Your decking color should complement your home’s exterior, landscaping, and personal style. Many homeowners choose colors that coordinate with:

  • Exterior siding or brick
  • Roof color
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Railing and trim
  • The overall style of the home

Deck railings are available in several materials, each offering a unique appearance and level of maintenance. Popular options include composite railing, aluminum railing, cable railing, vinyl railing, and glass panel systems. The right choice depends on your desired style, maintenance preferences, and the view you want to preserve.

Aluminum railings are one of the most durable railing options available. They resist rust, corrosion, and fading while providing a clean, modern appearance that requires very little maintenance throughout their lifespan.

Composite, aluminum, and vinyl fencing are all known for their exceptional longevity. Unlike traditional wood fences, these materials resist rot, insects, moisture, and warping, allowing homeowners to enjoy years of dependable performance with minimal upkeep.

Composite fencing offers many advantages over traditional wood, especially if you want to reduce maintenance. Benefits include:

  • No regular staining or painting
  • Resistance to rot and insects
  • Long-lasting color retention
  • Minimal upkeep throughout the year

Wood fencing remains an attractive option for homeowners who prefer a more traditional appearance and don’t mind regular maintenance.

Although composite, PVC, aluminum, and similar materials typically cost more upfront, many homeowners find they save money over time. Lower maintenance requirements, fewer repairs, and a longer lifespan often make these materials more cost-effective than traditional wood.

Absolutely. Many outdoor living spaces combine multiple materials to create both visual interest and improved performance. For example, homeowners often pair composite decking with aluminum railings, decorative lighting, stone features, or privacy fencing to create a customized outdoor space.

Routine maintenance is simple and usually involves removing debris and washing the deck with mild soap, water, and a soft-bristle brush or manufacturer-approved cleaner. Cleaning your deck periodically helps remove dirt, pollen, and organic buildup while keeping the surface looking like new.

Composite decking, PVC decking, aluminum railing, and composite fencing are all designed to withstand changing weather conditions throughout the year. These materials resist moisture, UV exposure, insects, and temperature fluctuations far better than traditional wood products.

Yes. Most premium decking manufacturers offer warranties that vary based on the product line and intended application. Warranty coverage often includes protection against structural defects, staining, fading, or manufacturing issues, so it’s important to compare products before making a decision.

Absolutely. Choosing materials involves balancing aesthetics, maintenance, budget, durability, and how you plan to use your outdoor space. Our experienced team will walk you through your options and help you select decking, railing, fencing, and other outdoor living materials that fit your home’s style and your long-term goals.

Visit Our Showroom In Kirkwood

We are the go-to distributor for the broadest selection of construction materials in the region, including St. Charles, Brentwood, Clayton, and throughout greater St. Louis.

For the complete ordering experience, we highly recommend you swing by our Kirkwood showroom. Located just off Big Bend and I-44, our in-store showroom displays all of the supplies we offer so you can get a hands-on understanding of our materials.

Also, our crew will help ensure you have everything you need to make the project go smoothly every step of the way.

Outdoor Living Inc. offers free estimates on your outdoor entertaining decor.

Contact an Outdoor Living Specialist to Schedule Your Free Estimate Today!

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