Southern California is well-known for having milder winters than most, meaning there’s more opportunity to spend time outdoors. Now, as spring starts to emerge, the days are growing longer, making it an opportune time to extend your living space to the backyard.
An outdoor deck provides ample opportunity to relax, entertain, garden, and simply enjoy spending time in the sun. Whether you’re considering building your first deck or want to add to what you already have, here are seven decking trends for inspiration, so you’ll be ready when the first 72 and sunny day hits.
1. Cost-Effective Composite Decking
Composite decking first became popular in the late 90s at which time it was relatively expensive to use. Fortunately, times have changed, and there are cost-effective, high-quality composite decking options that will help create an impressive look.
Trex Enhance composite decking is an affordable, low-maintenance option that’s available in various colors and offers easy-to-clean maintenance. Also, these deck boards are comprised of 95% recycled board, making it an eco-friendly solution.
2. Lightweight PVC Decking
Azek’s PVC decking offers a lighter-weight yet supremely durable board for easier installation. It’s popular for pool decks or docks since the boards stay cooler when exposed to the sun than the original composite.
3. The Resurgence of Hardwood Decking
Using hardwood materials for decking is a newer trend within the past several years. Redwood used to have the biggest appeal but beautiful hardwoods like Ipe, Garapa, Borneo Mahogany, and Red Balau have also emerged as favored materials due to the rich and warm appeal they provide.
4. Color and Pattern Combinations
Many homeowners are exploring the use of different colored composite boards as part of a picture frame design. This type of pattern involves using darker boards for the perimeter and light boards in the middle, also mixing in different board sizes to achieve unique patterns.
5. Cable Railings to Preserve the View
Even if you already have a traditional deck, there are several ways to modernize it as an extended living space. Cable railings have become trendy for those who want to maintain their backyard view. It creates a sleek, ornamental appeal without blocking any of the scenery.
6. Hidden Fasteners
Fasteners go to the side edges of the deck board, so the fasteners are less visible. Though they’re available for wood decking, they’re mostly used for composite decking projects. If you’re re-doing your deck or making modifications, implementing hidden fasteners creates a streamlined look.
7. Privacy Screens
There’s a style of privacy screen for nearly every purpose. Whether the use is purely functional as a privacy wall or a decorative trellis to hang plants and outdoor lights, it’s easy to customize backyard space.
8. Start with a Solid Decking Foundation
Trends come and go, but the longevity of your deck is dependent on the quality of materials used. J&W Lumber has a range of trusted wood and composite decking brands always in stock, as well as all the accessories you’ll need to start your next project.
Enjoy the changing seasons with a new outdoor entertainment space. Stop by your local store today and allow one of our friendly representatives to point you in the right direction.