Outdoor living is among the top priorities for most homeowners, architects, and design experts focusing on residential projects. Homeowners throughout the country are extending their indoor living space to the outdoors by building decks.
Installing a deck is one perfect way to expand your living space and add value to your home. Additionally, decks allow you to enjoy the outdoors more. They inspire you to spend more time outdoors, which can be advantageous to your health.
Initially, most people used timber to build their decks. About 6% of Australian houses have a timber deck or balcony. However, the latest decking trends listed below incorporate the use of a variety of other materials. Read on to learn more.
1. Composite decking
Composite decks are among the most common exterior projects. The global composite decking market is set to increase by USD$2275.99 million from 2022 to 2027. One reason behind this popularity is that composite decking is more durable. It’s made from a mixture of plastic and wood fibres, which results in a solid material that resists wear and tear for several years. Moreover, the resulting material can withstand heavy traffic and the weight of the furniture.
In addition to that, composite decking offers the following benefits:
- Requires little maintenance: Composite decking doesn’t absorb moisture or dry out, unlike wood decking. Therefore, there’s minimal need to sand or stain it, but you may have to occasionally hose or power wash it to give it its best look.
- It’s resistant to pest and insect damage: Composite decking is built to resist damaging exterior effects and is less vulnerable to pest and insect infestation.
- It’s splinter-free: As outlined above, composite decking is made from tiny wood fibres covered in plastic. For this reason, the boards won’t splinter, making it safe for bare feet, which is particularly crucial if you have kids and pets.
- It’s environmentally friendly: Composite decks are made from recycled materials; thus, minimal environmental effects.
- Offers myriad colour alternatives: You can craft composite decking in various colours and finishes that retain their shade for longer.
With the numerous benefits, you’d want to reach out to composite decking Australia companies for further inquiries. Keeping up with decking trends 2023 ensures your deck is classy and attractive.
2. Covered decking
Another significant decking trend in 2023 is installing a roof over your deck. It enables you to enjoy the outdoor space throughout the year, regardless of the weather. Even when it rains, you can still use the area for the intended purpose, whether hosting a party or recreation.
Moreover, a roof protects your deck from weather elements like rain and snow, enabling it to last longer. It saves you money on repairs and maintenance over time. Besides that, a covered deck adds style to your home. With the appropriate design, a deck cover makes an outstanding accent piece in your backyard.
3. Two-tone decking
Most timber decking trends have one uniform finish. However, you can have a two-tone deck for your home. Usually, you do a paint or solid deck stain on the spindles and railings. Also, the deck floor has a semi-transparent or transparent deck stain. One advantage of this is you can match the deck with your house without giving up on the natural wood look.
Another advantage is you have endless colour options for the spindles and railings since you’re using paint or a solid deck stain.
4. Lighted Decks
Deck lighting can add illumination on the deck when it gets dark. It creates a stunning atmosphere, making your home appear more inviting. You’d want to install deck lights that match your home’s style and exterior finish.
Below are some deck lighting ideas for your consideration:
- Railing lights
- LED string lights
- Pendant light
- Classic festoon lighting
- Eco-friendly solar lights
- Style lanterns
- Built-in floor lights
Deck lighting not only improves the aesthetics of your home but also gives you and your family security and safety. It deters break-ins and prevents injuries from falls by allowing you to see clearly as you move around.
Decks are an extension of your indoor living spaces. Therefore, they must be more comfortable and reflect a welcoming environment that makes you want to stay longer.
Conclusion
One way of maximising your outdoor living potential is by installing a deck. Decks offer a lot of fun and provide a peaceful and quiet place to relax. However, their designs keep changing, and new trends emerge each year. Therefore, you should adopt the latest decking trends in Australia and boost the style and usability of your outdoor living space. Consider going for long-lasting materials like composite decks and save some money on repairs and maintenance.
