Imagine sipping your morning coffee while watching the sunrise, hosting unforgettable outdoor gatherings, or simply enjoying a tranquil space to unwind after a long day—these are just a few of the joys that adding a deck to your home can bring. But why is fall one of the best times to add a deck? And which is better: wood or composite?
The Case for Replacing or Adding a Deck
Expanding Your Living Space
Adding a deck effectively extends your living space into the great outdoors. It’s an inviting area where you can relax, entertain, and make the most of your home’s surroundings. Whether your property boasts scenic views, a beautiful garden, or simply a cozy backyard, a well-designed deck can become a natural extension of your indoor living space.
Boosting Home Value
A well-maintained deck can significantly increase the resale value of your home. It’s an attractive feature that appeals to potential buyers, especially those who appreciate outdoor living spaces. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, the return on investment for adding a deck is consistently high, making it a wise financial choice.
A Versatile Entertainment Hub
Decks are incredibly versatile and can serve as a multi-functional entertainment hub. From hosting barbecues and dinner parties to providing a cozy spot for stargazing or reading a book, your deck can be customized to suit your specific lifestyle and preferences.
Wood Decks
Pros of Wood Decks
Natural Aesthetics: Wood decks offer a classic and timeless appearance, with the unique grain patterns and textures of various wood species adding a warm and inviting feel to your outdoor space. They seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings of your home.
Initial Cost: One of the primary advantages of wood decks is their lower initial cost compared to composite materials. Wood is readily available, making it a cost-effective choice for homeowners on a budget.
Reparability: Wood decks can be easily repaired and refinished. You can replace damaged boards, sand and refinish the entire deck to restore its appearance, and extend its lifespan.
Cons of Wood Decks
High Maintenance: Wood decks demand significant ongoing maintenance. They require regular staining, sealing, and painting to protect against moisture, UV rays, and insect infestations. Neglecting these tasks can lead to issues like warping, splintering, and rot.
Limited Lifespan: Wood decks have a limited lifespan compared to composite alternatives. Even with diligent maintenance, they may need to be replaced sooner, making them a less cost-effective choice in the long run, especially in Central Oregon with the extreme weather changes from cold, wet winters, to dry, hot summers.
Susceptibility to the Elements: Wood decks are vulnerable to the effects of weather, including moisture and UV rays. Over time, this can lead to fading, discoloration, and degradation of the wood.
Composite Decks (Trex® and TimberTech®)
Pros of Composite Decks
Durability: Composite decking materials like Trex® and TimberTech® are known for their exceptional durability. They are resistant to rot, warping, splintering, and insect damage, ensuring a long lifespan with minimal maintenance.
Low Maintenance: One of the most significant advantages of composite decking is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike wood decks, they only need occasional cleaning to keep them looking pristine. There’s no staining, sealing, or painting required.
Sustainability: Trex® and TimberTech® are both environmentally conscious choices. They are made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and recycled plastic materials, reducing the demand for virgin lumber and plastic. Choosing composite materials means contributing to a more sustainable future.
Aesthetics: Both Trex and TimberTech offer a wide variety of styles and finishes that mimic the natural beauty of wood. You can choose from various colors and textures to match your home’s aesthetic while enjoying the benefits of composite materials.
Cons of Composite Decks
Initial Cost: Composite decks typically come with a higher initial cost compared to wood. However, this upfront investment is often offset by the long-term savings in maintenance and repairs.
Heat Retention: Composite decking materials can retain heat, making them warm to the touch in direct sunlight. This may be uncomfortable for bare feet in hot weather.
Potential Fading: While composite materials are resistant to UV rays, they can still fade slightly over time. However, this fading is typically uniform, resulting in a weathered, natural appearance.
Making the Right Choice
Consider Your Lifestyle
When choosing between wood and composite decking materials, consider your lifestyle and maintenance preferences. If you prefer a low-maintenance, long-lasting deck with eco-friendly features, Trex® or TimberTech® may be the best choice. However, if you appreciate the natural aesthetics of wood and are willing to invest time and effort in maintenance, wood could be the right option.
Budget and Long-Term Costs
While composite decking may have a higher upfront cost, it can save you money in the long run due to its longevity and minimal maintenance requirements. Consider your budget and the long-term cost of ownership when making your decision.
Aesthetics and Design
Both Trex® and TimberTech® offer a wide range of design options, allowing you to select the style, color, and texture that best complements your home’s aesthetic.
Environmental Impact
If sustainability is a priority, both Trex® and TimberTech® are eco-friendly choices as they use recycled materials in their production.
The choice between wood and composite decks (Trex® and TimberTech®) ultimately depends on your priorities, budget, and maintenance preferences. Wood decks offer classic aesthetics but require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan. On the other hand, Trex® and TimberTech® composite decks provide durability, low maintenance, and sustainability, although they come with a higher initial cost. By weighing the pros and cons of each option, you can make an informed decision to create an outdoor living space that perfectly suits your needs and style.
Why Add or Replace Your Deck in the Fall?
But why replace or add a deck in the fall? Fall is an excellent time to add or replace a deck to your home for several compelling reasons:
- Milder Weather: Fall typically brings cooler temperatures compared to the scorching heat of summer or the frigid cold of winter. This more temperate climate makes it comfortable for construction workers to complete the project, reducing the risk of heat exhaustion or frostbite.
- Easier Scheduling: Fall is typically a less busy season for contractors and construction professionals. This means you may have an easier time scheduling and coordinating your deck project, allowing you to work with your chosen professionals more flexibly.
- Preparation for Winter: By completing your deck project in the fall, you can ensure it’s ready and safe for use during the winter months. This is especially important for regions like Central Oregon with heavy snowfall, as a well-constructed deck can withstand the weight of snow and ice better than a damaged or aging one.
- Enjoyment Before Winter: Adding or replacing a deck in the fall allows you to enjoy your new outdoor space before winter sets in. You can host fall gatherings, sip hot beverages on your deck, or simply relish the beautiful autumn foliage from the comfort of your outdoor oasis.
- Preparation for Spring and Summer: Completing your deck project in the fall ensures that it will be ready for use in the spring and summer. You won’t have to worry about construction disruptions or delays when you want to make the most of your outdoor space during the warmer months.
- Optimal Material Selection: If you’re considering composite decking materials like Trex or TimberTech®, fall is an ideal time to make your selection. These materials often have specific design and color options that are well-suited for autumn aesthetics.
- Increased Home Value: By adding or replacing a deck in the fall, you can potentially increase the value of your home before the winter real estate market slowdown. A well-constructed and visually appealing deck can be a strong selling point when it’s time to put your home on the market.
Fall offers a range of advantages for adding or replacing a deck to your home, from favorable weather conditions to potential cost savings. It allows you to enjoy your new outdoor space during the fall season and ensures it’s ready for use in the upcoming winter and spring months.
Adding a deck to your home is a rewarding investment that enhances your living space, increases your property value, and provides endless opportunities for enjoyment. While wood decks have their charm, the superior durability, low maintenance, and sustainability of Trex® and TimberTech® composite decking make them appealing choices for homeowners seeking a beautiful, long-lasting, and eco-friendly outdoor space. Whether you choose Trex® or TimberTech®, you can look forward to years of relaxation and entertainment on your new deck.
Here at Bend Fence and Deck, we are certified TrexPro® and TimberTech® Elite Installers, which means we understand the products and are very knowledgeable about composite decks and how to install them correctly. Whether you are wanting a custom Red or Cedar Wood deck, or leaning toward adding a composite deck, make Bend Fence and Deck your number one choice for all your decking needs.