Having a new deck, three season room or farmers porch may be just what you and your family needs. We at CORE Remodeling Services, are here to help guide you through the most important questions to ask yourself.
Composite or Wood Decking what to choose?
Composite
If you’re framing and foundation systems are in good shape, you can opt for simply replacing your old deck boards with composite decking. Some composite decking is made of a combination of wood fibers and recycled plastic, and some are just recycled plastic, also known as PVC. Some people refer to composite materials as “Azek”,Trex and Timbertech, which are just a few of the well-known manufacturers of composite materials. It is dense, heavy, and resists both stains and the decay from weather. Composite decks keep their new look longer than regular deck board depending on the final product choice. They can, in many cases, eliminate drilling, nail heads, and almost all upkeep. In addition, they are more environmentally friendly, and last longer than natural options.
Pressure Treated
This material is probably the best-selling option on the market. In fact, essentially almost every deck’s structure (posts, beams, joists) is made from pressure treated wood, regardless of what the decking material is. It is usually cut from southern yellow pine and treated against decay, fungus, and wood eating insects. Pressure treated wood can last for decades when properly maintained. The main drawback to pressure treated wood is that it needs regular maintenance and tends to swell, crack, split and warp because it’s made of pine.
Exotic Hardwood
Exotic hardwood decking can be extremely long lasting and resistant to insects and other natural sources of deterioration. However, they do come with more maintenance requirements than other types of decking materials. Exotic hardwood examples are Mahogany, IPE, Brazilian Walnut, Tigerwood, Garapa and Massaranduba decking. There are more deep browns in color with hints of red and amber. They add a truly luxurious and high end feel and look to your deck.
*Please keep in mind in what manner and how much you use your deck will impact not only the layout but the material selection, electrical, plumbing, and final cost of your project.
Layout?
Are you keeping the same footprint or are you expanding?
The most important part of a new deck or porch renovation process is planning the layout. What type of lay out do you want?
If you already have a deck in place, do you plan to keep your deck the same footprint or expand?
*There is an important thing to keep in mind when renovating an existing deck or porch. The footings must meet today’s requirements. If they don’t meet those requirements they will need to be replaced and this will add additional costs.
What do you envision your new deck to look like?
Is it a multi-level deck, gazebo, add pergola or a roof?
What type of railings: wood, cable, metal, or composite?
Do you want an outdoor kitchen and or bar area for entertaining, if so plumbing will be required?
Do you want to a tv or sound system, if so, electrical will be required?
You can also include extra Features such as built-in benches and or built-in benches with storage.
Things to keep in mind when you are envisioning your new deck?
Knowing what is important may help you save money on your remodel. What are the essentials? What is nice, but optional? Here are some things to consider:
How long do you plan on staying in your home?
How much maintenance are you willing to do, such as painting and staining? *Note composite does need maintenance.
Where does the deck the most sunshine and where is it shaded?
What are you family’s needs and lifestyle around the deck?
Do you entertain a lot?
Do you want a lot of privacy, if so, this may change the layout?
Think of future needs or uses for your deck, should you screen it in or enclose it.
This can be overwhelming at times. That is why CORE Remodeling Services will be with you every step of the way. Our design team will help you to design and build your own private oasis retreat that you won’t want to leave.
