Ideas – Evergreen Decks LLC

The Pros and Cons of Choosing Composite Materials for Decks

When it comes to building or upgrading a deck in the Triangle area, one of the most important decisions homeowners face is the choice of material. Composite decking has become very popular over the years as an alternative to traditional wood. But is it the right choice for your outdoor space? Here are some pros and cons of choosing composite materials for decks.

Pros of Composite Decking

Low Maintenance
A significant advantage of composite decking is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike wood, composite boards don’t need staining, sealing, or sanding. Occasional cleaning with soap and water is usually enough to keep it looking great year-round.
Durability
Composite materials resist fading, warping, splintering, and insect damage. Many high-quality composite decking products come with a 25-year or more warranty, making them a long-term investment for your home.
Eco-Friendly
Many composite decking boards are made using recycled materials, such as plastic and reclaimed wood. This makes composite decking a more environmentally conscious choice than traditional hardwood options.
Aesthetic Versatility
Composite decking is available in various colors, textures, and styles that mimic the natural look of wood. Whether you prefer a rustic look or a contemporary finish, there’s likely a composite option that suits your taste.
Safety Features
Composite decking is often slip-resistant and splinter-free, making it a safer surface for families with children and pets.

Cons of Composite Decking

Higher Initial Cost
One of the biggest drawbacks of composite materials is the upfront cost. Generally, composite decking is more expensive than pressure-treated wood, which may be a deciding factor for homeowners with a lower budget.
Heat Retention
Composite decks can become quite hot under direct sunlight, making it uncomfortable to walk barefoot during summer. Some brands offer heat-resistant options & lighter colors are generally less of an issue. This is something to consider however based on the Triangle area climate, and how you plan to use your deck.
Surface Scratching
While composite decks are very durable, they are not entirely immune to scratches and scuffs. Heavy furniture or dragged objects, especially with lower-grade products, may leave marks on the surface.
Limited Repair Options
Wood allows for sanding and refinishing, whereas a damaged composite board must often be replaced entirely. We have not had this experience with a customer (or with our own decks) yet, but this is something to keep in mind.
Synthetic Appearance (in some cases)
Although composite decking has made great strides in mimicking real wood, some products still have a synthetic look and feel that some people do not like.

Is Composite Decking Right for You?

Choosing composite materials for your deck depends on your priorities. Composite decking could be ideal if you’re looking for a low-maintenance, durable, and eco-friendly option. However, if cost and natural aesthetics are more important, you may prefer traditional wood.

When deciding, consider the Raleigh area climate, your lifestyle, and your long-term goals. Composite decking offers many benefits, but weighing both the pros and cons is essential to determine what works best for your home and budget.

If you want a quote for a project, click here for a no-strings-attached estimate or email me at evergreendecksllc@gmail.com

Landscaping Tips for Underneath Your Deck

Once you have your new or improved deck, you may be contemplating how to beautify or maximize the space beneath. We have seen many of our customers transform this shady, empty space into a functional area. Here are some of the best ideas we’ve seen.

Storage Space

Do you have garden tools, outdoor furniture, or bicycles that need to be protected from the elements? Weatherproof storage bins, shelving units, or pegboards are great additions to the space below your deck for organizing items that need a safe outdoor home. Some customers with taller decks have even invested in custom-built storage sheds to house larger items.

Enclosing an under-deck storage area with skirting or lattice can enhance the aesthetics of your deck and offer additional protection for your belongings.

With any of these options, easy accessibility is important. Be sure to think through the location and openings of any storage solutions before making a purchase.

Plants

Depending on your soil and lighting, shade-tolerant plants can be a beautiful addition to the space surrounding or underneath your deck. Hostas, astilbes, and ferns do well in shaded areas. Creeping Jenny or other attractive ground covers are another excellent option since they can handle shadier areas and will continue to spread into a carpet of warm-weather greenery over time.

For a low-maintenance option, consider rock, gravel, or mulch. Potted plants along the edges would allow you to move things around on the covered area as you discover where the best sunlight is for each plant.

If you like lawn ornaments or statues, a few well-placed favorites would look nice peeking into the yard from among the plants.

Lighting

This is one of our favorites for a low-maintenance, beautiful addition to any deck. LED recessed lights can be added on the deck ceiling for a soft glow to enjoy from the yard on warm summer evenings. For a simpler option, hang string lights along the posts or along the edges of the deck. Solar lights along the outside are also an easy, eco-friendly addition to the outside of the deck. Just be sure to install them in locations that get enough sunlight.

Conclusion

Putting some thought into the aesthetic appeal of the area under your deck not only enhances the usability of the space, but it also adds value to your investment.

Here at Evergreen Decks LLC, we are more than happy to help you implement some of these ideas to enjoy your outdoor living space to the fullest.

If you want a quote for a project, click here for a no-strings-attached estimate or email me at evergreendecksllc@gmail.com.