7 Deck Trends for 2017
Homeowners are placing more and more value on their outdoor spaces these days. Decks aren’t just an afterthought, but part of the home itself. This is especially true for log home and timber frame homeowners, who often want to make their homes one with nature — not an escape from the outdoors.
Homeowners are asking contractors to build decks bigger and better, and often look to them as experts for deck design. Here are a few deck building trends we’re seeing in 2017. Keep them in mind when consulting with homeowners about deck projects.
1. Get on Their Level
If today’s decks were houses, everyone would want a split level. Homeowners want decks to become extensions of their home with designated spaces for doing what they love outdoors — grilling, enjoying a drink and good conversation with friends, container gardening, and even playing games. Create separation for these activities with multilevel decks.
2. Build Built-Ins
Decks are no longer a platform for placing objects on. Incorporating raised planters, built-in bench seating and even sunken spas can make a deck feel more custom and luxurious.
3. Put a Pattern Underfoot
Deck flooring doesn’t have to be laid vertically or horizontally. Many homeowners are requesting chevron, herringbone or parquet patterns, creating an almost rug-like look. Another popular request is picture framing: installing boards around the perimeter of the deck for a polished finish.
4. Top It Off
Homeowners want covered areas where they can seek shelter out of the rain or sun, or away from pesky bugs. Some ideas include pergolas with fabric draped overhead and screened-in gazebo structures.
5. Add a Pop of Color
Deck paints and stains not only protect wood, but they also can add a splash of color — gray is popular this year. Northern White Cedar is a great decking option if homeowners request color. It holds paint and stain well; left untouched, it will weather to a gorgeous silvery gray.
6. Rethink Railings
Homeowners are looking to surround their deck with something other than traditional wood spindles. Many request mixed materials such as glass panels, cable rails or metal spindles. Heartwood Mills even offers unique railings made from twigs gathered from Cedar bogs around our mill.
7. Make it Low Maintenance
Homeowners want to enjoy their decks — not maintain them. Northern White Cedar is the perfect wood building product for homeowners wanting a low-maintenance wood deck. Northern White Cedar is composed of durable heartwood that’s impervious to pests such as termites and post beetles. It doesn’t cup, warp or split, resulting in even floorboards. Plus, it’s weather-resistant — exactly the feature you want in wood deck products.
Heartwood Mills is an expert in more than log siding. Give us a call if you’re looking for advice and expertise for your next deck building project.
