A beautifully constructed home deck not only enhances your outdoor living space, but also adds significant value to your property.
As a middle-aged homeowner, selecting the best deck material for your new space can make all the difference in its longevity and performance.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the top choices for decking materials including composite, wood, aluminum, and PVC – examining their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
The Benefits Of Having A Custom Home Deck
A custom home deck offers numerous advantages to middle-aged homeowners, elevating both the aesthetics and functionality of their living spaces. One significant benefit is the increased value it brings to any property.
By selecting the best material for a deck, such as composite decking or tropical hardwoods, homeowners can enjoy long-lasting durability and low-maintenance features that potential buyers will appreciate.
Additionally, a custom home deck creates an inviting outdoor space perfect for relaxation, entertainment, and family gatherings. Imagine hosting summer barbecues with friends or enjoying your morning coffee while basking in natural sunlight on your very own personalized deck.
Moreover, a well-crafted custom home deck maximizes usable space in one’s yard by establishing clear borders between various activity areas – from gardening plots to play zones for children or pets.
With proper planning and consideration of existing landscaping elements, decks provide optimum integration into their surroundings while promoting improved organization within exterior environments.
The Best Materials For A Home Deck
Creating a custom home deck is an excellent way to enhance the beauty, functionality, and value of your property. However, choosing the right material for your deck is crucial for its longevity and ease of maintenance. In this article, we will discuss the best materials for a home deck to ensure you make the perfect choice for your home.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Composite | Low maintenance, durable, and doesn't require painting or staining. | Can be more expensive than other materials. |
| Wood | Classic, timeless look, natural, strong, easy to install, and feels good under bare feet. | Requires annual maintenance to prevent rotting and insect damage. |
| Tropical Hardwoods | Grainy, hard, durable, resistant to rot and insects, and a luxury choice. | Can be expensive and difficult to source responsibly. |
| Aluminum | Lightweight, low maintenance, and excellent durability. | May not provide a natural look and can be costly. |
| PVC | Low maintenance, weather-resistant, and no need for staining. | Can look less natural than other materials and may be more expensive. |
Each of these materials has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages, so it is essential to consider your specific needs and preferences when making your decision.
Be sure to also factor in your budget, as some of these options can be more expensive than others. Ultimately, the best material for your home deck will depend on your personal taste, climate, and maintenance preferences.
At Lake City Decks, two of our favorite decking boards are Trex and TimberTech composite decking. These are low-maintenance, durable, and beautiful boards that help you achieve a self-sufficient outdoor space!
How To Budget For A New Deck
Budgeting for a new deck is crucial to ensure you get the best material and design without breaking the bank. Consider these steps when planning your home deck project:
- Determine your desired deck size and design.
- Research available materials, including composite, wood, aluminum, and PVC.
- Consider the maintenance costs of each material; note that composite decking requires minimal maintenance while wood decks often need annual upkeep.
- Compare prices of decking materials at local suppliers or online retailers.
- Factor in additional expenses such as hardware, railings, lighting, and stairs.
- Obtain quotes from multiple licensed contractors to install your new deck.
- Account for permits or zoning requirements that may be necessary in your area.
- Create a timeline for project completion, considering seasonal weather conditions that could affect installation costs.
- Review your budget to include possible contingencies for unforeseen expenses during construction.
- Establish an overall budget based on gathered information and prioritize features accordingly.
By being mindful of these factors, middle-aged homeowners can effectively plan their perfect home deck without putting unnecessary strain on their finances.
Conclusion
When it comes to selecting the best material for your home deck, there are several options to consider. Composite decking is an excellent choice due to its durability and low maintenance requirements.
Tropical hardwoods also make a luxurious option but are most suitable for those with a bigger budget. PVC and aluminum decking provide great alternatives that do not require staining or painting like wood does.
No matter which material you choose, planning your budget beforehand will help ensure you get what you want without breaking the bank.
With Lake City Decks, you can be sure you’ll get the best deck in the neighborhood! We focus on your needs and preferences to give you an outdoor space that completely satisfies your needs!
If you’re ready to start your project in Madison, Monona, Maple Bluff, and more of Dane County, WI, give us a call at (608) 839-0620 or request a free quote now!