Installing a deck is a big decision and there are many factors to consider. Whether you’ve been wanting to add a deck to your space for years or just had the idea today, we want to help you envision, plan, and install the right deck for you.
From material selection to design and installation, here are a few things to consider as your start to plan the layout of your new deck.
The Benefits of Composite Decking
Composite decking is just as stylish and sturdy as real wood, without the expense and time commitment of maintaining timber. Though timber decks can feel timeless, they inevitably degrade over time — even with proper care. That’s why composite can offer an affordable and durable alternative to timber.
Composite decking also offers an eco-friendly option, as it’s made entirely with eco-friendly, recycled timber powders and high-density polyethylene. It’s even more durable than timber without sacrificing the look and feel of a solid timber deck.
With composite decking, you’ll rest assured that your investment will stand the test of time. It’s 100% weather-proof and made with enhanced UV stabilisation and mould resistance, even in the harshest conditions.
Unlike timber decks that often require oiling or special coating, the only maintenance required for a composite deck is washing it down with soapy water.That means you’ll spend more time enjoying your deck and less time (and money) repairing and maintaining it.
Finally, with a composite deck you’ll add significant value to your home at an affordable price. Composite decks are built to last decades, making it possible to pass it down to the next owners of your home and recoup your costs by adding value to your home.
And if all that isn’t enough, Easy Panel decks come with a 10 year warranty, so that you’ll never have to wonder if you made the right choice.
Easy, Functional Composite Decking Layout Ideas
Have we convinced you yet? If you’re ready to commit to adding the perfect composite deck to your home, then it’s time to start brainstorming what “perfect” looks like to you.
Composite decking is highly versatile and can be laid out in a variety of styles and patterns to suit any home. To make your life easier, we’re mapping out some of the most popular and functional styles of composite decking so that you can start envisioning your new deck.
Picture Framing
When we think of frames, we think of fine art or photographs — and decks are their own kind of art!
Picture framing is a simple, but effective way of completely elevating the look of your entire deck. This style involves forming a clean border around the edge of your deck so that the rest of the panels are neatly “framed.” This style is polished, modern, and versatile, allowing it to fit perfectly into your existing yard or landscaping.
What better way to emphasize the sleek look of your new composite deck than by building a frame to showcase it?
Diagonal Runs
While linear runs of composite decking are common, a more creative alternative is to incorporate diagonal runs into your decking project. Laying out your panels diagonally can add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to your deck that simply isn’t accomplished by linear decking. Diagonal panels can turn a straightforward deck into a gorgeous statement piece that defines the entire space.
The clean lines of a diagonal design are also a great way to make your deck feel like a seamless part of your home, making it feel more like an extension of your existing space, instead of an addition.
Curved Edges
Depending on your budget, there are tons of options to make your deck even more distinguished. While adding curved edges requires a bit more installation work and building materials, the elegance of the design can make the investment worth it. After all, if you’re going to add a deck to your space, you might as well feel like you’re at a spa or resort right from the comfort of your own home.
Composite decking can be cut just like timber, allowing for dynamic design choices, if desired. Curved decks can be built around existing landscaping, around the edges of a pool, or just as a way to set your deck apart from the standard design.
Steps
Depending on the height and location of your new deck, you might consider adding steps. Steps can lead to the doors of your home, down to the yard or pool, or even to a second layer of decking. Steps offer convenience and ease of access, while also adding a neat, uniform look to your design.
While it can add some time and planning to add steps to your initial design, taking them into consideration up front can add versatility and flexibility to your decking design overall. With steps come a variety of accessory options, as well; lights, railings, and other decorations, should you choose to expand and elaborate on the look and feel of your deck throughout its lifespan!
Lighting
Lighting can be simple to install, but incredibly effective when done well. Whether your deck is residential or commercial, adding lighting can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
You’ll be able to light up your deck at night, allowing you to stay outside longer or create a lighted area that draws the attention of customers or guests. Lighting adds not only a pleasing design feature, but a safety feature, as well, ensuring maximum visibility at any time of day or night.
Lighting can also be fun, flexible, and, depending on the type and installation, interchangeable with different bulbs and fixtures, so that your deck design always feels fresh!
Decking Installation Considerations
Once you’ve made the choice to install a composite deck, what’s the first step in making your dream a reality? To prepare you a little better for what to expect, let’s talk about the simple framework of any decking project.
Phase 1: Planning and Designing
The first step is a lot of what we’ve talked about here today! Figure out what kind of deck you want and where it will be installed. Then, determine how much time and materials will be needed to build it.
Phase 2: Preparing the Foundation
After planning comes the actual building of your deck! You or your team of professionals will have to create the foundation for the deck, ensuring the proper posts are in place and that the area is level. After that, the frame of the deck is installed and secured. Joints and joists are sealed and protected against moisture and compounding to ensure your deck is safe to enjoy.
Phase 3: Laying the Deck
Once all of this planning and preparation is complete, it’s time to actually lay down the boards of the deck! The actual fixing method depends on the brand of composite decking you use. Having a plan ahead of time is one of the most important components of building your new deck, as it will help you avoid wasting time and materials when it comes time to lay the boards.
Phase 4: Accessorising
And, finally, the fun part — installing any accessories or additions you’ve selected like stairs or lighting.
Phase 5: Enjoying Your New Deck
Once your deck is complete, it’s time to start settling in and making it feel like yours! Set up the patio furniture, grab some food and drinks, and start relaxing on your new deck.
Start Designing Your Deck Today
Depending on your overall vision for your deck, each of these designs and accessories will vary in cost and installation. The best way to get started is to contact us for a free quote so that we can discuss your dream deck with you and walk you through the details!
No matter what type of deck you design and install, you’re investing in an addition to your home or commercial space that will add years of enjoyment and value to your life.
