There is no doubt that building a deck adjacent to your home in Kane County opens up a world of possibility for family fun and hosting guests all summer long. Additionally, outdoor living spaces are one of the most effective ways to increase the long-term value of your property.
With spring approaching, now is the time to start making plans for building a new deck at your home in Northern Illinois or remodeling your existing space. While it may sound like a simple enough project, there are some logistics to figure out before construction can commence. These include the size and shape of the deck, which material is best to use, and any special features to include: enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning, watching over your children as they play in the yard, sharing a family meal or entertaining guests for a festive get-together. On the other hand, being an outdoor space means your deck is constantly exposed to the elements and subject to normal wear and tear. If you want to help your deck remain functional and visually appealing for years to come, you have to take good care of it.
Best Decking Material in Kane County
As you explore your options for your new deck in Northern Illinois, there are several important factors to take into consideration. Selecting the best material for a sturdy, long-lasting deck depends on the specific architectural style of your home, your price range and your preferred level of maintenance.
Nowadays, there are multiple types of deck materials, which gives you the ability to customize your outdoor living space but also complicates the decision-making process. Here is a look at some of your decking material choices and the associated pros and cons:
1. Wood Decks
Wood is a natural selection, having been used as a construction material for centuries. There is an innate warmth and comfort associated with raw materials such as wood. With the right paint or finish, it can be fashioned to complement a variety of home styles.
However, even in the world of wood, there are several distinct options. Pressure-treated pine is one of the most popular choices, as it is relatively durable, affordable, readily available, and easy to stain. The downside is that, when exposed to the elements, pressure-treated lumber tends to crack, shrink or swell. In terms of durability, redwood and western red cedar are superior. They are also prized for their rich color and natural beauty.
You also can opt for imported hardwoods, like ipe (ee-pay), a dense and resilient wood that comes from the forests of Central and South America. Other tropical hardwoods include garapa, massaranduba, cumaru, red tauari and tigerwood. These upscale choices are a bigger initial investment, but they can elevate the aesthetic appeal of your new deck.
Regardless of which type of wood you select, there will be some level of maintenance involved, which includes periodic power-washing, sealing, and refinishing.
2. Composite and Plastic Decking Materials
Composite decking, made from a mixture of wood particles and recycled plastic, represents one of the fastest-growing materials on the market. PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is composed entirely of synthetic materials, has experienced a similar surge since its introduction as a construction material.
On the plus side, composites and PVC are often designed to mimic natural wood, but they are virtually maintenance-free. You don’t have to worry about controlling mold, insects, splintering, warping, and cracking. You can select from a variety of colors, and they are often manufactured alongside a complementary line of matching handrails and balustrades.
On the other hand, both PVC and composite decks are a bigger investment than using pressure-treated wood. PVC decking tends to cost 10% to 15% more, while wood-composite decking is usually two to three times the cost.
Enhancing the Exterior of Your Home in Kane County
The benefits of having a deck on your property in Kane County are numerous. Picture a summer of enjoying your coffee outside in the sunshine, working while your children play in the yard, or hosting parties, reunions, and other gatherings. However you envision your deck being used in the future, our team at Ken Spears Construction can help you develop a design that encompasses the best decking material and your choice of special features, from custom seating and built-in storage to post heaters and misting systems. Your new or upgraded deck should be a seamless extension of your living space, designed to accommodate the unique lifestyle and recreation habits of your family, and Ken Spears can make that happen.
