Deck Builders Victoria BC: Exploring the Different Trendy Deck Styles and Materials for Your Property

Top Five Deck Design Trends for 2023

If you want to make an outdoor area for your house, you're probably wondering about the different deck styles available and which one will look best with your home and suit your preferences. There are various deck styles, ranging from traditional to unique designs, so you'll find one that suits you.

No matter which deck style you choose, there are many advantages to outdoor living space in your home.

Multi-Level Decks

Multi-level decks are designed to have multiple raised platforms or levels, each serving a different purpose. You can create separate spaces for various activities by incorporating distinct areas on your deck. 

For example, a lower level can be dedicated to housing a hot tub, providing a private and relaxing area. The upper level can be used for dining or lounging, where you can enjoy meals or simply unwind outdoors.

To enhance the comfort and ambience of your multi-level deck, you can consider incorporating sunken seating. This seating arrangement creates a cozy and intimate outdoor lounge space, perfect for gathering with friends and family.

The addition of multiple levels to your deck not only creates a visually appealing design but also offers functional benefits. It allows you to engage in different activities simultaneously, making the most of your outdoor space. Moreover, the varied levels provide privacy, as each area can be designated for specific purposes.

Multi-level decks are particularly advantageous for homes situated on uneven terrain. Instead of levelling the ground, these decks can adapt to the existing landscape, maximizing the usable space. The varying heights and layers of the deck design contribute to the visual interest, making your outdoor area more captivating and dynamic.

Built-in Seating and Storage

Built-in seating and storage options can greatly enhance the functionality and organization of your deck while keeping it free from clutter. By incorporating built-in benches, planters, and storage units, you can optimize the available space and create a more efficient outdoor living area.

These benches can be strategically placed along the perimeter of your deck or in specific areas to provide ample seating for your guests. They eliminate the need for additional furniture, saving space and creating a cohesive look.

In addition to seating, built-in planters can add a touch of natural beauty to your deck. These planters can be integrated into the deck structure that allows you to incorporate greenery and flowers that enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor space. Having plants within easy reach lets you enjoy the benefits of gardening and create a refreshing atmosphere.

Another valuable feature of built-in options is storage. With built-in storage units, you can effectively organize and store various items. This eliminates the need for separate storage solutions. Keeping everything stored within the deck structure allows you to enjoy a clean, organized outdoor space without sacrificing functionality.

Integrated Deck Lighting

Deck lighting enhances the ambience and safety of your outdoor space. Create a cosy ambience with lighting options such as recessed lights, string lights, and solar-powered fixtures. You can connect it to the deck, steps, railing, or even the deck boards to provide a soft glow and extra security.

Outdoor Kitchens and Bars

Outdoor kitchens and bars offer a fantastic way to extend your indoor living experience to the outdoors. Incorporate fully equipped outdoor kitchens with grills, refrigerators, sinks, and storage.

Imagine preparing delicious meals while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. Outdoor kitchens provide all the amenities you need to cook and entertain outside. You can easily cook dishes for your family and friends with a built-in grill. 

You can opt for a basic setup with a grill and a small food preparation area or go all out with custom-built kitchens. The choice is yours, depending on your preferences and the space available.

Multi-Coloured Composite Decking

Gone are the days of sticking to traditional wood tones or single-colour deck boards. Deck design has taken a bold leap forward, embracing vibrant colours and captivating textures. Homeowners now look at daring colours like turquoise, orange, and yellow.

Transform your deck into a visually stunning masterpiece by choosing multi-coloured composite decking. This innovative approach allows you to give your deck a stylish makeover with deck boards in various complementary colours, adding a unique and captivating touch to its overall appearance.

Incorporating multi-coloured composite decking can bring a burst of life and personality to your outdoor space. Multi-coloured composite decking allows you to customize your deck's look to match your style and preferences. They also provide an opportunity to highlight different areas and architectural features. You can use lighter shades to brighten gathering spaces, while darker tones create a cosy and intimate atmosphere. 

Different Decking Materials to Consider

When it comes to building a deck, there are various materials you can choose from. It's important to explore your options and understand the advantages and disadvantages of each material, as well as the maintenance required to keep your deck looking great for a long time. 

Here are some popular decking materials and factors to help you decide.

Composite Decking

Composite decking is made by combining different materials to create a new product. It usually consists of low-density polyethene and wood fibres, but other materials like rice hulls and high-density polyethene can also be used. 

This is resistant to the elements and comes in different colours that resemble wood. It requires minimal maintenance, with occasional washing being enough. High-quality composite decking can last up to 25 years. The cost can vary widely, ranging from $5 to $13 per square foot. Some brands use recycled materials, so if environmental impact matters, check with the manufacturer.

Capped Composite Decking

This is a type of composite decking that has a protective plastic coating. This coating makes it more resistant to moisture, rot, warping, and insect damage than uncapped composite decking. It's less likely to fade or stain and offers better durability. Installation is similar to traditional composites, but following manufacturer instructions is crucial for proper ventilation.

Uncapped Composite Decking

Uncapped composite decking lacks a protective plastic layer, making it less resilient than capped decking. It's more susceptible to damage from the elements, prone to uneven fading and staining over time, and susceptible to mould and mildew growth in humid climates. It's also more easily scratched and damaged.

Wood Decking

There are three common types of wood decking to choose from:

Pressure-Treated Wood Decking

This is the most common type of wood decking. It's treated with chemicals to deter insects, prevent mould and mildew, and protect against rot. It's easy to find and work with but requires precautions when cutting or drilling due to the chemicals involved. Pressure-treated wood needs regular maintenance to extend its lifespan, including power washing, sanding, and re-staining. It's affordable, costing around $3 to $6 per square foot.

Cedar Decking

Cedar is considered a higher-quality wood for decks. It weathers to a grey tone over time and is lightweight and resistant to decay, infestation, and rot. Cedar requires regular maintenance but can outperform standard pressure-treated wood decking. The cost is approximately $9 to $11.50 per square foot.

Hardwoods

Exotic hardwoods like ipe are known for their durability and resistance to termites and decay. They have unique appearances and tannins that enhance their durability. Hardwoods last longer and look better with age compared to softwoods. However, some hardwoods are slow-growing, and their renewability is debatable. Researching different wood types can help you choose the best option for your project.

1. Alternative Decking Materials

Apart from composite and wood decking, here are two alternative options:

PVC Decking

PVC plastics offer durability and low maintenance. High-quality PVC decking requires no sanding or staining, making it almost maintenance-free. It comes in various colours and patterns, providing more design options. However, PVC decking can be more expensive, ranging from $11.82 to $26.34 per square foot, and it may have a higher carbon footprint due to limited recycled content.

Aluminum Decking

Aluminum decking is a durable and low-maintenance alternative to wood. It doesn't decay or crack over time and is fire-resistant. It's available in different colours and styles, suitable for homes in areas prone to wildfires or severe weather. Aluminum decking averages between $25 and $50 per square foot.