Low-maintenance decking materials are much different to install than traditional
pressure-treated wood decks. There are different support requirements
based on the significant additional weight of the boards. In addition,
good composite deck builders will use more sophisticated fastening systems
hiding the fasteners from view for the ultimate upscale and neatly finished look.
Why should you choose a low-maintenance deck?
Natural lumber requires maintenance on a consistent schedule, often annually.
The wood may need to be sanded, stained, sealed or cleaned on a fairly
regular basis over the life of the deck to keep it looking good. In addition
to preserving the surface aesthetics, natural wood will succumb to natural
aging which can result in splitting, cupping, splintering, blistering,
peeling, flaking, cracking, rotting or structural damage from termites
or fungal decay. This list is precisely what you are protected against
if you choose low-maintenance decking. While natural wood is beautiful
and has a rustic and authentic charm, it ages. It expands and contracts
under the heat of the sun and in the cooler temperatures of the winter.
This natural expansion and contraction can cause splitting, cupping, warping
and cracking.
.1).jpg)
Wouldn’t it be great if there was a material that was guaranteed
to be free from material defects?
There is. In fact, AZEK’s 20+ year warranty includes protection from
material defects. You don’t need to perform annual maintenance to
protect from aging and weathering and your manufacturer’s warranty
ensures that your decking boards will maintain their structure and appearance.
.1).jpg)
Color changes are another important consideration
AZEK and other composite and low-maintenance decking boards maintain their
color without having to perform maintenance. Natural lumber will gray
out after it’s installed. There is a natural charm to weathered
and grayed out lumber. It’s the traditional decking that was on
your childhood deck and your grandparents’ porch. Nowadays, homeowners
are able to choose a color and be sure the deck or porch will remain that
color. This allows for much more flexibility and creativeness with decorating
and has tremendous visual appeal.
.jpg)
Take a look at the AZEK deck above. This deck not only has composite decking
but also has a composite railing. The beautiful rich dark railing color
will look that good year after year without any assistance from cans of
stain or the toil of stripping and staining. Also above, take a look at
the beautiful streaking pattern in the decking. Composite brands now offer
a number of different textures and surface patterns to more closely emulate
the charming characteristics of wood.
.jpg)
Imagine your deck looking this good next year, and the next, and even 15
years from now
The deck above has an unbelievable aesthetic charm. The warm honey-colored
AZEK decking contrasts beautifully with the white decking posts and white
picket rails. The contrast is continued with the lattice skirting and
even in the posts for the built-in bench. That warm brown will be the
same warm brown over the years that you own the deck.
.jpg)
Design options abound
The deck above has cantilevered built-in benches. Depending on the height
of your deck and local code, you may be able to use built-in benches in
the place of railings in different areas of your deck. These benches serve
as a natural rail and open up the visibility of the yard from the deck.
In addition, it allows your railing to serve the dual purpose of providing
extra seating and display decorating area. If your built-in benches are
near your grill, they are certain to be your grill chef’s friend
while cooking.
.1).1).jpg)
Hiring a trained and experienced composite deck builder matters
From looking at the picture above, you can tell the extensive artistry
and experience that is required to get the most out of your investment.
Through the years, we’ve heard horror stories from customers who
worked with an inexperienced composite deck builder only to find that
their warranty was not honored because the installation requirements were
not met. You can rest assured with Archadeck that we have the experience
and expertise to build a stunning low-maintenance deck for you.
A little more about the image above
The homeowners above made some lovely choices for their outdoor living
space, These were coupled with installation techniques that further heightened
the aesthetic appeal. Take a look at the way the decking boards are installed
at an angle. The wide step down to the lower deck provides a wide opening
for easy traffic flow. Wide steps also serve to provide some overflow
seating when needed. The built-in planter box serves to grace the transition
between the deck levels and provides endless decorating options. The black
iron railing is certainly a stand-out feature that contrasts exceptionally
with the modern and soothing gray decking.
Choose a custom deck builder and deck designer
Archadeck has been designing and building custom decks in the Winston Salem
and Greensboro area for over 25 years. Every deck we build is custom designed
to suit how you want to live outside. Your design starts with your consultation.
A design consultant will walk your property with you and learn about how
you want to use your space and what activities you’d like to do
on your new deck. We then draw your deck and present the custom deck design
drawing to you. Upon your approval and contract, we pull all the necessary
permits and ensure all the necessary inspections are completed so you
can enjoy your deck for many years to come and be the beloved home to
visit and spend cherished time.
Ready to get started? Schedule your complimentary design consultation with
our team today! Reach out to us at
(336) 568-8230.