If you’re planning another deck renovation, what should you do differently this time to make it more of a success than last time? Whether your deck is dated, it’s just high maintenance, or not reaching its maximum potential, this post is for you. We look at some of the ways you can improve your experience and just have an overall better time in your outdoor areas.
Switch to advanced decking materials
The biggest problem with modern decking is the amount of upkeep and maintenance it requires. If you go for regular woods, you’ll need to deal with things like fading, rot, and warping.
The good news is that you can now get composite decking. This contains synthetic elements that protect the wood from wind. Because of this, you can often get a 25-50 year lifespan out of it and only need to wash it down with the occasional soap and water.
You could also look for mineral-based or PVC options. Again, these typically last longer and can resist things like UV damage.
Use wider planks
Another option is to use wider planks. This gives your decking area a more contemporary and modern feel. Wider planks are widely considered to be more attractive. You can also use them to create separate “rooms” in your decking. They’re very for zoning, for instance.
Use multi-level layouts
Related to this last point, you might also want to explore the idea of using multi-level layouts. Allowing the decking to operate on different levels creates separate rooms where people can go. For example, you could have a fire pit area, a place for lounging, and a dining area. When these are physically at different heights, it creates an impressive first impression. It also allows the decking to flow from the house to the yard, especially if your lot is on a slope.
Integrate smart features and functionality
Integrating smart features and functionality is another obvious change that you should make to your decking. Instead of just leaving it as plain wood, you want to add things like built-in LED lighting and louvred pergolas.
Think about smart shading for sun and rain. Sometimes you want to be exposed to the sun’s rays but also sometimes you need protection. Specific types of awnings can provide this for you. What about other things that you might need in your decking area to entertain you, like Wi-Fi extenders or outdoor sound systems? Consider how each of these fits into your lifestyle.
Upgrade your railings
Finally, if your decking has railings, try to upgrade them and go for a modern look. This can be a great way to make existing decking feel brand new without the full cost of a complete renovation. Most people opt for frameless glass railings. These have a metal rail with panels of tempered glass beneath it for unrestricted views of the garden area. This is a nice option if you are looking down over the garden and want to see the flowers. If that’s not an option, you could also go for sleek cable types of railings. These provide you with even more visibility and they can look great if they’re paired with modern designs.
