Decking
Wood & Composite Decking Landscaping Ideas
Your backyard deck serves an important function bringing family together or creating a private sanctuary to retreat to. Landscape Management Group can help you create the perfect outdoor environment making sure your patio design, colors and layout are exactly what you need. We’ll help you to understand the benefits of various decking materials including wood decking or composite decking. Choose different colors and deck board layouts for a look that is uniquely your own. No detail is missed with steps, railing and lighting that complement your deck.
Jump to section… Deck vs Patio | Deck Structure | Deck Materials | Deck Design | Railing | Steps | Instant Price Estimator
1. Deck versus Patio
When should you build a Patio versus a Deck?
Does your backyard contain a hill or change in elevation? If so, building a raised deck is cheaper than building a paver patio because it is more costly to build retaining walls out of brick or stone. If your backyard is level and the deck will lie flat to the ground, then you’re probably better off building a patio because overall the materials will cost less in this case.
2. Deck Structure
Are you building things on top of your deck?
Depending on the function your outdoor patio will serve, it will be important to make sure your patio is framed out correctly. There are a lot of factors that go into the spans of the joists, the placement of the footers, and the sizing of the wood itself. These as well as other factors need to be considered when designing the frame of your patio.
Does your deck need a DrySpace sub structure?
DrySpace doubles your livable outdoor space with an added sub structure. Designed with second-story decks in mind, DrySpace collects and channels moisture from the spaces between boards with a hidden under-deck drainage system.
DECKING LAYOUT TYPES
3. Decking Materials
Benefits of Composite Decking, PVC & Wood
| PVC | Composite | Wood | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | HIGHEST | HIGH | LOW |
| Maintenance | MINIMAL | MINIMAL | HIGH |
| Longevity | 30+ to Lifetime | 25+ years | 10-15 years |
| Recycled | 60% | 85% | 0% |
PVC Decking
PVC decking is the longest lasting decking on the market with limited lifetime warranties. It is the most expensive option and is highly resistant to moisture damage like mold and mildew, and it won’t splinter, crack, warp, peel, or rot. Virtually no maintenance is required. PVC decking uses UV resistant materials and is made up of approximately 60% recycled material. It stays cool to the touch, won’t splinter and gets better traction for your bare feet.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is roughly twice the cost of wood decking but lasts much longer. Made of a mix of high-performance and recycled polymers and reclaimed wood fibers, TimberTech Composite Decking, a higher-rated brand, is made to last and won’t splinter, crack, warp, or peel. The upkeep is very low with UV resistant materials that protect from mold & moisture damage. Composite decking contains about 85% recycled content.
Wood Decking
Wood decking has a natural look and is made using pressure treated lumber. It requires regular maintenance using sealers or stain and the overall structure could require upkeep as wood can warp over time. Typically wood decking lasts roughly 10-15 years but is often half the cost in comparison to composite decking.
Deck Colors & Design
The options are endless when it comes to deck board colors and design layouts. Decks can use multiple board colors and be laid out both diagonally, horizontally or vertically. Creative central designs can draw the eye or accents around the perimeter of the deck can be incorporated.
Cable Railing
Vertical Railing
Horizontal Railing
Glass Railing
Steps & Railing Lighting
Add elegance and stunning nighttime appeal with high efficiency industry leading LED lighting systems to your steps and deck railing.
5. Steps & Skirting
Steps, Raisers, Facia & Skirting
Customize the look of your deck with different colors for each component. The steps leading up to your deck along with the raisers (back of each step) can be different colors to add dimension. Steps can be simple or wide and multi-directional to wrap around your entire deck. In addition, the deck skirting and facia that wraps around the perimeter of your deck can also be customized.
Additional Considerations
Compliment your Deck with a Complete Backyard Oasis
A well-designed deck is an important feature of your outdoor space, working hand-in-hand with your other key structures. A truly stunning backyard landscape design incorporates several elements to make the most of your space. Whether a private getaway or a social gathering spot, Landscape Management Group can help you choose the right structures and designs to bring the outdoor oasis you envision, to life.
Price Your Deck
Complete this form for an Instant Deck Estimate.