What if we told you that you could have a beautiful, durable deck to make memories on for years to come without constant maintenance worries? Composite decking is rapidly becoming a popular choice, and for good reason! It offers a great alternative to traditional wooden decks because of its durability, attractive appearance, and of course, low maintenance.
But before you take the plunge and start building, there are some things to take into consideration. Taking some time to research options like contractors, prices, and your own needs will guarantee an ideal finished product.
Factors to Consider
We’ll take a look at specifics of materials soon, but first let’s glance at some factors that will help you make a decision.
Durability
Not every composite decking material is the same. Keep an eye out for decking that will keep itself together and resist staining, fading, scratching, and mold. It’s also a big advantage to have a deck that holds its own against harsh weather. Low price points may be enticing in the moment, but if they mean you’re getting a deck that will look faded and warped in the near future, cross them off your list.
Maintenance
Do you have a busy lifestyle? If so, you probably don’t want to spend your leisure time making fixes to this area that’s meant to help you relax. Though this decking option is known for requiring less maintenance than wood, some brands are simply better at keeping that promise than others. At Ladiesburg Lumber, we prioritize quality materials by partnering with trusted manufacturers like Fiberon, Trex, and TimberTech.
Aesthetics
Nobody wants an ugly deck, but you certainly don’t want a deck that looks completely different than your home. When you’re shopping around, keep in mind how yours will look in comparison to your house. You’ll be kicking yourself if you go with an option that clashes heavily with everything around it. You don’t want a light-colored deck when the trim elsewhere on your property is much darker.
Another factor to keep in mind is fencing. If possible, choose a look for your deck that matches that of your existing fence. The colors will all come together for a satisfying scheme! And of course, if you need a hand in making your choices, we’re always happy to help! Take a look at our gallery for some inspiration.
Price
Wooden decks tend to require comparably more maintenance and repairs, and they often aren’t cheap. While the price tag for composite boards is higher than wood decking, that cost is made up over time thanks to low maintenance needs. The question here is, “Can I cover the initial price?” If so, this is an investment worth making. With good care, that price tag is going to be a no-brainer when you look back on it years from now.
Different Composite Decking Boards
This stuff is made to be strong! The combination of recycled wood fibers, plastic, and chemical binding agents makes for an impressively sturdy material. This formula isn’t the same across the board though (pun intended). Again, some manufacturers just make better stuff than others, so here are some variables to look for. At Ladiesburg Lumber, we make it a point to offer high-quality products from the best brands!
- Composition: The fiber/plastic/chemical ratio of the material varies from brand to brand, which can affect its appearance and performance.
- Capped vs. Uncapped: Some brands make their materials even more durable by capping it with a protective layer, so keep an eye out for this valuable feature!
- Texture and Color Options: Another big advantage of composite decking boards is the variety of textures and colors available. Get creative with your choices so you end up with a deck that is 100% you!
Assessing Your Needs
No two homeowners are alike. What may be an end-all-be-all feature to one person might not matter in the slightest to another. Due to this diversity in needs across the spectrum of homeowners, a huge array of options are available. Now it’s time to narrow those options down! Here are a few things to think about
Climate
If you live in a place that sees a lot of humidity and rain, you probably won’t want to use the same materials as someone living in a dry region. You’ll want to prioritize mold resistance, whereas they won’t have as much of a need for it.
Usage
What is your deck going to be used for? Relaxation? Cookouts? A little bit of both? Having a solid answer will help with material selection as well as design!
Local Regulations
As with any construction project, you need to make sure your planned deck won’t be violating any local regulations with its materials.
Researching Brands and Reviews
In any given area, there are several materials manufacturers and sellers on the market. Naturally, some are more reputable than others. Researching the best one for your project can be the difference between total satisfaction and an expensive piece of regret.
Reputation
What do other people say about the brands you’re considering? Do they have a good reputation with the community and people you know personally? Our experts can help guide your decision-making. Just give us a call!
Customer Reviews
Similarly, online reviews can be a big help when making your decision. Check out Google, Yelp, and other reputable sources for customer feedback. Keep a keen eye out for common praises and complaints to help you identify the worthwhile contributions.
Warranty
Length and coverage of the warranty on your deck should never be overlooked. If the unfortunate happens and you do require repairs or replacement, you want to have the reassurance that you’re covered.
Making Your Decision
So you’ve researched the best results for “composite decking near me”, weighed the factors, and assessed both your needs and buying options. It’s time to make your decision! Don’t be afraid to get in touch with the pros or even visit their showroom to see everything (and everyone) in person.
Building a deck is a huge step in the journey to having a wonderful home. By understanding your options as well as the start-to-finish process, you’re setting yourself up for an investment that will bring you joy and relaxation for years to come. When you’re ready for this big leap, get in touch with us at Ladiesburg Lumber.
Are you ready to make your deck the best place for cookouts, hangouts, and everything in between?
