Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2018-06-29T07:01:01

(BPT) – Think about your favorite moments and memories from past summers. The time you spent with family and friends, dining, playing games or simply enjoying one another’s company. Now, ask yourself this: How many of those summer memories took place outside, on the deck?

The deck is the perfect spot for summer get-togethers and events. However, if yours is in need of a facelift or a complete re-do, now is the perfect time of year to complete a new outdoor living space customized to fit your needs. A new wood deck can add value to your home, but be sure to choose the right wood products to build it. Thus, the question becomes: What type of wood do you use? When do you use ground-contact and above-ground, pressure-treated wood?

If you don’t know the answer to these questions, don’t worry. This article can help you determine what type of wood you need to use and where. Follow this guide from Viance and you’ll be on your way to building the deck of your dreams.

Ground-contact wood

As its name implies, ground-contact wood often forms the foundation of your project and may include the support posts placed in or on the ground, in concrete or in fresh water. Ground-contact should also be used whenever your wood pieces will be installed less than 6 inches off the ground, such as a ground level deck.

Ground contact wood earns this designation because it has been specifically treated to protect against fungal decay and termite attack at and below the ground’s surface. For your deck project, ground-contact, preservative-treated wood should be used for ledger boards, stair stringers and support posts. Other landscaping projects, like garden boxes, landscape walls and anything else that may be built in or on the ground, should use ground-contact, preservative- treated wood.

Above-ground wood

Above-ground wood is the other major designation, and this is the wood type you will use to build the majority of your deck. You can use above-ground treated wood for locations that are easy to maintain and repair, quick to dry and where ample air flow around the wood is possible. On most decks, this will be your deck boards, guardrails, balusters, joists and beams. Above-ground wood uses less preservative chemicals than ground-contact wood, and in newer preservative systems like Ecolife, it provides added benefits that can repel water, minimize cracking and keep boards straighter. Above-ground wood is also the ideal choice for many outdoor projects including arbors, trellises, lattice, decorative posts, trim boards and fence pickets.

If the wood will be more than 6 inches from the ground, above-ground wood is the ideal, and most economical type of treated wood to use.

Finding the right wood for your deck today

No matter the dimensions of your deck, chances are you’ll use a combination of ground-contact and above-ground, pressure-treated wood. Applying the guide above can help you determine which wood type you need for each phase of your project, but quandaries could still arise. If you ever have questions, you can find answers at treatedwood.com and learn more about EcoLife and Preserve pressure-treated wood, sold in lumberyards across the country and under the Severe Weather brand at your neighborhood Lowe’s store.

2018-06-29T07:31:01

(BPT) – Are summer’s sizzling temperatures causing you to retreat from your favorite outdoor spaces? Garages, patios, sheds, gardens and other outdoor areas should be enjoyed throughout the year. Unfortunately, heat and humidity can quickly make being outside intolerable during the dog days of summer.

The good news is keeping outdoor spaces comfortable doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right tools and some thoughtful planning, you can stay cool and continue your favorite hobbies, no matter how high the temperatures rise. Whether it’s wrenching on a car, in the garage tackling a DIY project, tending to your patio container garden or simply kicking back on the deck, the following steps can help you stay cool and safe.

Step 1: Shade

Direct sun on decks and patios can make it nearly impossible to enjoy hot days. Strategically install shade features like umbrellas and awnings to add instant protection and ambiance. An alternative is vine-covered trellises that block sunlight and align well with the natural elements outdoors. For covered areas like garages and sheds, direct sunlight isn’t a concern, but those rays can raise the temperatures in those spaces fast. That’s why it’s important to take additional steps to cool the air within.

Step 2: Portable cooling

Fans alone simply circulate stagnant, hot air throughout outdoor living spaces. Instead consider an evaporative cooler. Available in a variety of sizes, Portacool portable evaporative coolers drop temperatures through the naturally occurring process of evaporation using water and the surrounding air, without creating mist. Open backyard spaces, patios and garages can be more comfortably cool on the hottest days by rolling this cooler wherever it’s needed.

Step 3: Insulation

For covered spaces like garages and sheds, adding insulation can help regulate temperatures. Batt insulation is inexpensive and an easy weekend DIY project to install if drywall isn’t present. Add to walls and ceiling spaces where applicable and then cover with drywall. If you already have drywall, you can look into blown-in insulation options. By insulating these spaces, you’ll help keep sweltering heat out and cool air in for more enjoyable summer days.

Step 4: Color

Keep color in mind when evaluating outdoor spaces. Light colors reflect the sun and dark colors absorb it, causing temperatures to rise. For decks and patios, opt for rugs and furniture in light colors to stay cool and comfortable. For garages and sheds, consider the color of the exterior. If you find the afternoon sun beats mercilessly down upon it, consider painting the exterior a lighter shade of paint, and when it’s time to replace the roof, choose a new color in a lighter hue.

Summer heat doesn’t have to force you indoors. Enjoy favorite outdoor spaces with these simple steps to stay cool and comfortable. For more information about evaporative coolers, visit www.portacool.com.

2018-06-29T07:01:01

(BPT) – Think about your favorite moments and memories from past summers. The time you spent with family and friends, dining, playing games or simply enjoying one another’s company. Now, ask yourself this: How many of those summer memories took place outside, on the deck?

The deck is the perfect spot for summer get-togethers and events. However, if yours is in need of a facelift or a complete re-do, now is the perfect time of year to complete a new outdoor living space customized to fit your needs. A new wood deck can add value to your home, but be sure to choose the right wood products to build it. Thus, the question becomes: What type of wood do you use? When do you use ground-contact and above-ground, pressure-treated wood?

If you don’t know the answer to these questions, don’t worry. This article can help you determine what type of wood you need to use and where. Follow this guide from Viance and you’ll be on your way to building the deck of your dreams.

Ground-contact wood

As its name implies, ground-contact wood often forms the foundation of your project and may include the support posts placed in or on the ground, in concrete or in fresh water. Ground-contact should also be used whenever your wood pieces will be installed less than 6 inches off the ground, such as a ground level deck.

Ground contact wood earns this designation because it has been specifically treated to protect against fungal decay and termite attack at and below the ground’s surface. For your deck project, ground-contact, preservative-treated wood should be used for ledger boards, stair stringers and support posts. Other landscaping projects, like garden boxes, landscape walls and anything else that may be built in or on the ground, should use ground-contact, preservative- treated wood.

Above-ground wood

Above-ground wood is the other major designation, and this is the wood type you will use to build the majority of your deck. You can use above-ground treated wood for locations that are easy to maintain and repair, quick to dry and where ample air flow around the wood is possible. On most decks, this will be your deck boards, guardrails, balusters, joists and beams. Above-ground wood uses less preservative chemicals than ground-contact wood, and in newer preservative systems like Ecolife, it provides added benefits that can repel water, minimize cracking and keep boards straighter. Above-ground wood is also the ideal choice for many outdoor projects including arbors, trellises, lattice, decorative posts, trim boards and fence pickets.

If the wood will be more than 6 inches from the ground, above-ground wood is the ideal, and most economical type of treated wood to use.

Finding the right wood for your deck today

No matter the dimensions of your deck, chances are you’ll use a combination of ground-contact and above-ground, pressure-treated wood. Applying the guide above can help you determine which wood type you need for each phase of your project, but quandaries could still arise. If you ever have questions, you can find answers at treatedwood.com and learn more about EcoLife and Preserve pressure-treated wood, sold in lumberyards across the country and under the Severe Weather brand at your neighborhood Lowe’s store.

2018-06-21T10:01:00

(BPT) – The Fourth of July is fast approaching and you have yet to find the flag you’ll display for the parades that pass your home or the cookouts you’ll host. However, you don’t need to go out and buy one. You can make one instead, and it’s easier than you think.

Just follow the step-by-step guide presented below and your flag will flourish in no time.

Step 1: Assemble your tools

Creating your own flag is easy if you have the right tools. For this project you’ll need an Arrow Fastener T50 Heavy Duty Staple Gun and staples (3/8”). You’ll also need an MT300 Mini Glue Gun and mini glue sticks (4” x 5/16”). Finally, you’ll need: a ruler, pencil, scissors, utility knife, 18 wood shims, 1 piece of basswood, 13 wood stars and red/white/blue ribbon and paint.

Step 2: Paint the shims

Before you lay your shims out in that familiar flag pattern, you’ll need to add a touch of paint. Paint four shims blue, eight red and six white. Next, paint the 13 wood stars white. Add additional coats if you need to and paint the white portions with a layer of clear sparkle if you want to give them a little extra pop.

Step 3: The flag takes shape

Once the shims have completely dried, arrange them in the shape of the flag. Be sure to have all the thick ends of the shims facing the center of the flag and then set it aside.

Step 4: Prepare the base of basswood

Take the piece of basswood and draw a line straight down the center with the pencil, using the ruler. This line will assist you when attaching to the back of the wood shims.

Step 5: Secure the basswood

Flip the wood shims over so the back side is facing up. Place the basswood on top of them. Use the line you drew in the previous step to line up the basswood with the center of the wood shims. If you want a hanging flag, cut the basswood to 12”. For a staked flag, place the basswood flush at the top of the flag and leave the remaining basswood extended beyond the bottom of the flag. Once you’re satisfied, secure the basswood to the wood shims using the Arrow T50 Heavy Duty Staple Gun and 3/8” staples.

Step 6: Finalize the back of your flag

If you choose to make a hanging flag, you can now cut the ribbon and staple it to the back of the flag. For a staked flag, trim the sides of basswood at an angle to create a spike. You may paint this to blend in with your landscaping if you want.

Step 7: Finishing the flag

Now it’s time to flip the flag over and secure the stars in the blue section using the Arrow MT300 Glue Gun.

Step 8: Display time

Now you’re ready to display your flag. Hang it from a wall or your front door, or place it in your garden bed or a flower pot. Let it fly for the Fourth of July, and you may just decide to keep it up all year long.

2018-06-21T07:01:24

(BPT) – If you’re planning to create an outdoor living space, advanced decking enables you to show off your creativity. For years, complex deck designs have been difficult to achieve with traditional lumber. But, with advances in today’s decking materials, you have the flexibility to create virtually any design to reflect your style. The possibilities of creating a bold deck design are only limited by your imagination. For example, did you love hopscotch while growing up? Build a hopscotch board into your deck. Maybe you are an avid musician; why not design your deck in a giant guitar shape?

Let your imagination run wild with these four features of composite decking that will help your bold designs come to life.

1. Durable above ground

When you are considering a bold backyard design, an important factor is the durability of your building materials. If you are going to create a design that you enjoy, you will want it to last a long time. Think about the use a deck gets in the course of the year; from weather exposure to food stains, traditional decks lose their luster in areas of high traffic or exposure. The maintenance time investment of keeping your deck in tiptop shape could be spent enjoying your creation rather than working on it. Composite decking is manufactured for durability against the elements and frequent use so you have less work in the long term.

2. Bend it like Beckham…

Chances are, a quick look at social media, TV or even a magazine will flood your vision with vivid images of beautiful outdoor living spaces anchored by large, curved decking. No, these decks are not Hollywood magic or an optical illusion. Such decks are possible due to a building technique called “deck bending.” Composite boards, like MoistureShield composite decking, are made, in part, with recycled plastic, which makes them flexible when heated properly. This flexibility makes your wildest design ideas possible for a truly bold and personalized look.

3. Installation on the ground

For those who enjoy the natural serenity of your backyard, consider the benefits of composite boardwalks in your backyard oasis. Installing low-lying composite boardwalks on the ground in order to tie in naturally with your yard’s landscaping is an increasingly popular option for homeowners seeking a backyard escape from the hustle of the day. With the use of advanced decking in your boardwalk, you can take a relaxing stroll through your backyard without the worry of rotten boards and splinters, and you can create a path to the garden without tracking mud back to the house.

4. Underwater installation

This may sound like a feature only Aquaman would use for his deck, but it is still relevant to those of us who live above the sea floor. Docks and marinas are frequently bombarded by weather, water and foot traffic that take their toll on the surface. Often, this weathering makes the surface an eyesore that doesn’t complement the beautiful scenery. “Dock surfaces tend to rot, warp and splinter after extended exposure to the sun, water, and elements, whereas high-performance composite boards will resist common issues found with traditional materials; even if they are fully submerged,” said Josh Landis, senior manager at MoistureShield. High-performance composite decking can be installed over water as a durable dock surface or even underwater as a boat launch or water access ramp for your lake house or oceanfront home.

With the availability and features of advanced composite decking materials today, your design can be as unique and personalized as you want it to be. Whether you are considering building a new deck or renovating an existing one, you can create a design that is a reflection of your personality. Take a chance, build boldly.

2018-06-20T07:01:15

(BPT) – It’s been in the news for years now: the decline of pollinators such as honeybees and butterflies, and how it’s upsetting our world’s healthy ecosystem. We need pollinators for the growth of many of the foods we eat each day – according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, some scientists estimate that one in three bites of food we take result from the work of pollinators. Berries, apples, oranges, almonds and scores of other foods, not to mention flowers, rely on pollinators. If they disappear, those foods will fade along with them.

So, why are pollinators declining? They can’t find enough food because their habitats are disappearing.

Fortunately, we can all help protect pollinators. Ortho, a leading brand in lawn and garden, recently teamed up with the Pollinator Stewardship Council for a consumer education campaign, “Bee Responsible,” aimed at helping home gardeners protect the pollinators in their yards, attract more of them and help them thrive.

In 2016, after evaluating the risk to honeybees and other pollinators, Ortho also announced plans to phase out neonicotinoid-based pesticides from all its outdoor gardening products and is investing in alternative pest control solutions. Ortho’s parent company, Scotts Miracle-Gro, has funded 125 pollinator-friendly gardens throughout the country.

Want to attract pollinators to your yard and help them thrive? Here are some tips.

Make your garden pollinator friendly. Nectar and pollen-packed plants attract honeybees, butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators. Choose colorful flowers, such as alyssum, aster, delphinium, flax, lavender, liatris, lupine, phlox or zinnia. Check with your local garden store for native plants and flowers that thrive in your climate and choose a range of plants that bloom in different seasons.

Encourage neighbors to do the same. If one pollinator-friendly garden is good, a network of them dotting your neighborhood is better. This could provide enough habitat and resources to help restore and bolster the pollinator population in your community.

Control pests in your garden. Insects and mites can bring disease and destruction to your garden, undoing all of the good you’re trying to do for pollinators. Ortho’s neonic-alternative 3-in-1 Insect, Mite & Disease control will help banish the bad bugs in your garden. To use responsibly, avoid spraying when it’s windy, apply the product at dusk and dawn when pollinators are less active and avoid using the product on blooms. Another tip: Use native plants whenever possible. They usually require less pesticide than plants from other zones.

Provide shelter. Bees and butterflies need shelter, so make sure your yard has some cozy nesting sites, like leaves, moss, piles of grass or a patch of yard you just let go wild. Also, check out bee houses in your neighborhood garden store. They’re artistic and fun, and they provide bees with shelter for their offspring to thrive.

Don’t forget the water. Your garden will provide the nectar and pollen. But bees, birds and butterflies need water, too. A decorative bird bath, water feature or even a shallow rain catcher will give your buzzing friends the water they need.

Install a hummingbird feeder. Imagine sitting outside with your first cup of coffee in the morning and watching those magical hummingbirds dart around the feeder. You’ll be nourishing your garden and your spirit at the same time.

By providing pollinators with friendly habitats, backyard gardeners can help these vital components in our ecosystem regain a foothold.

2018-06-19T09:01:00

(BPT) – Nothing transforms a home quite like a fresh coat of paint. In fact, painting your own house is one of the smartest and easiest DIY upgrades a homeowner can accomplish on their own.

“Summer is the ideal time to tackle a painting project, as the warmer temperatures lead to faster drying times, and you can comfortably leave the windows open for better ventilation,” said Megan Youngs, Product Manager at DAP. “Just remember, a little bit of preparation goes a long way toward creating a professional look that will last for years to come.”

Before reaching for a paintbrush, follow these paint preparation tips from the experts at DAP.

Clean Up Your Act – Paint adheres better to a smooth, clean surface. While living room walls may only need a dry dusting, kitchens and bathrooms, where dirt, grease, oil or mildew can build up, need extra attention. Wash surfaces with soap and water, rinse well and allow them to fully dry. For bathrooms, remove mildew by applying a solution of one-part bleach to three-parts water and allow the solution to sit for 20 minutes. Then scrub the mildew with a soft-bristle brush, rinse the surface and allow it to dry. Be sure to wear safety glasses and rubber gloves when working with this bleach-and-water solution.

Scrape and Sand – Now that the surface is dry, smooth down the surface with a bit of fine-grit sandpaper. This is particularly important if painting over a glossy finish, as paint applies more evenly to dull surfaces. In addition, going over the area with sandpaper will help uncover any cracks, holes or dents that could diminish the final look of your project. Another pro tip is to shine a bright light at a low angle across the surface to spot any problem areas. After you have sanded or scraped the area, wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dust or residue.

Don’t Forget the Details – Anyone can paint over a wide, smooth surface, but it’s the attention to detail around windows and doors that truly separates a mediocre job from the pros. Use painter’s tape to protect window sills, molding, baseboards, door hinges and the ceiling perimeter, taking your time to ensure that every corner is properly protected. These areas are also prone to gaps and cracks. Remove any loose or cracked caulking from windows, doors and trim, and apply a fresh bead of sealant for a smooth, sealed surface. Alex Flex Premium Molding & Trim Sealant is specifically formulated for use on molding and trim applications. The sealant is paintable in just 30 minutes with latex or oil-based paints, saving time and resulting in a seamless, more professional finish.

Fill It Up – Now it’s time to tackle the main surface. Cracks, holes and dents will mar the finished project, so apply spackle to fill in these areas. Open a container of pre-mixed spackling compound and scoop up a small amount with a putty knife. There’s no need to pile it on. Instead, start with a small amount, and with a shallow knife strike, spread the compound over the hole or crack in a smooth, downward motion. Repeat until the hole is completely filled in. Want to get rid of those stubborn recurring cracks? Reach for Alex Flex Flexible Spackling, which provides maximum flexibility and moves with the repaired surface as problem areas expand and contract with changes in weather and humidity. It’s also easy to sand to a smooth, feathered-edge finish and is paintable for a seamless repair.

Paint with Precision – Make the job go easier and faster by having a variety of brushes and rollers on hand. Rollers are great for covering large, wide surfaces, but for a professional look around edges and corners, you’ll need smaller brushes for the right amount of detailed work. Moisten rollers and brushes in water beforehand, as this will help the paint glide more smoothly onto the surface. Allow the first coat of paint to completely dry, and then apply a second coat to ensure smooth, even coverage. Once the second coat is dry, carefully pull up any painter’s tape and voila! Your space is transformed!

For more information on DAP products for your next DIY project, visit DAP.com.

2018-06-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – Across the U.S., the housing market is picking up pace moving into the peak of the summer homebuying season.

In city after city, home prices are on the rise, up 2.3 percent on average between April 2017 and 2018, according to the RE/MAX April 2018 National Housing Report. And there are fewer houses on the market to choose from, with total housing inventory down by 11.3 percent.

Based on home sales in April 2018, the national supply of inventory was at 2.5 months, making it a strong seller’s market. (A 6-month supply of inventory historically indicates a market that is balanced equally between buyers and sellers.)

What’s fueling the demand? More members of the millennial generation entering the housing market, among other factors.

If you’re ready to stop renting and start enjoying the benefits of home ownership, finding the perfect house within your price range can seem daunting, especially in a seller’s market. Keep these things in mind to find and close on that special home.

1. Keep an eye on your credit score

The interest rate of your mortgage matters a great deal. Even a fraction of a percentage can add (or subtract) thousands of dollars over the life of a 30-year loan. One thing that can influence your interest rate is your credit score — it’s just one way for the lender to determine how likely you are to repay the loan. Well before you begin browsing properties online, take steps to get your credit score in the strongest possible position. Review your credit report and report errors immediately. Make on-time payments and put off opening new credit accounts until after the mortgage is finalized.

2. Work with a full-time, experienced real estate agent

Plenty of online services claim you can save money by completing the process without a real estate agent. But as many buyers discover, the savings don’t always come through as promised. In fact, going through this complex process without professional guidance can definitely lead to costly problems later. If you work with an agent, you’ll get to work with a pro who’s in touch with the local market and can lend a helping hand every step of the way. Their expertise can help you find that perfect house and help you craft the right strategy for your offer. Visit remax.com to find a professional agent in your area.

3. Play to your strengths

When you find the right house, you may not be the only one making an offer on the property. That can be intimidating. But keep in mind it’s not always about coming in with the highest dollar amount. Buyers have different motivations to sell. Some may be in a situation where they want to close and move out as soon as possible. They’ll be less likely to work with buyers who have their own houses to sell, making first-time buyers more attractive candidates.

Buying a house is a big step, and in the heat of a seller’s market, it takes extra patience and perseverance. Find the right real estate agent to help you through the process, and moving day may arrive sooner than you expected.

2018-06-14T12:09:00

(BPT) – Americans love their do-it-yourself home improvement projects, and the warmer months can be an excellent time to brush up on your construction skills and complete a woodworking project to grace your home or cottage.

Do-it-yourself fans in the U.S. are expected to spend some $43.7 billion toward home improvements this year, marking a 45 percent increase since 2012. And when it comes to selecting a strong yet versatile wood for those projects, many will opt for Western Red Cedar, an aromatic wood that grows in the Pacific Northwest.

The unique characteristics of the durable yet lightweight species make it resistant to rot, decay, shrinkage and insects even as it weathers over time into a stunning silver patina. The knotty species comes in several surface textures, dimensions and price points, and do-it-yourselfers report it handles like a dream because it lays flat and accepts a wide range of finishes. Further, it’s a sound environmental choice because it comes from sustainably managed forests.

Looking for a useful and enjoyable woodworking project that will wow your friends and family this season? Consider one of the following gems you could construct using Western Red Cedar.

* Sharpest shed ever: Envision this compact multi-purpose shed gracing a key corner of your backyard to organize and protect your yard tools, ladders, sports equipment, recycling bins, firewood, and/or other outdoor gear. The pattern calls for 1×6 and 1×4 cladding spaced strategically to let air flow through the building so you can keep your things dry. Thanks to the superior strength and weather-resistance of the wood, your newly created storage space will last for years.

* Recliner of your dreams: Imagine kicking back with a friend — or taking a nap in the sun — on this roomy loveseat fitted with standard-size comfortable cushions that match your outdoor décor. Entertaining more than one friend? It’s super easy to fold down the back so you can seat guests on both sides. This versatile and practical design, featuring modern and clean lines, is an excellent seating option when you need to make the most of your space on porches and decks.

* Dinner al fresco: The clean lines of this dining table and bench-set fit seamlessly into any indoor or outdoor décor. Imagine your family gathered comfortably around your new spacious dining area to enjoy a backyard cookout, a round of ice-cold drinks, or a birthday celebration. Since the bench and table designs match, you can build the benches first to prepare you for the larger project.

* Grow your own herbs: After whipping up this compact vertical herb garden made to lean against any wall, you’ll be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor for years. Merely step out on your deck to harvest your choice of fresh, flavorful seasonings for whatever you’re cooking that day. Of course, planting colorful flowers in the removable containers is another great option. Perhaps best of all, because Western Red Cedar contains naturally occurring preservatives that automatically fight decay, no stain or finish is necessary; exposure to the elements will instead turn the wood a beautiful silvery color.

Ready to get started? For these and many other free downloadable project plans featuring Western Red Cedar, log onto the Do-It-Yourself Center at Realcedar.com.

2018-06-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – If The Old Farmer’s Almanac prediction holds true, this summer will be a hot one. The weather forecast anticipates temperatures for the season to be “hotter than normal” across most of the U.S. If you’re ready to kick up your feet and soak in these rays, now is the perfect time to get started on that deck you’ve been dreaming about adding. But before you put hammer to nail, you’ll need to decide on which decking material to use.

While wood might be the first material that comes to mind, there are now a multitude of options from luxurious hardwoods to wood-plastic composites. With all of the products in today’s home improvement stores, it can be hard to know which one to put in your cart. The process doesn’t have to be complicated. Before you buy, look for decking that meets these three criteria:

1. Beautifies your backyard

Whether your deck is big or small, it helps set the stage for your backyard retreat. Make sure the decking material you select packs a lot of style and ties in with your home’s existing architecture to create a wow-worthy outdoor living space. Get creative. Many of today’s offerings are available in a wide array of decking color combinations to complement exterior color schemes, from popular grays to rich, dark browns.

If you love the look of wood, but want enhanced durability, consider modern composite decking with a mix of natural wood fibers and plastic. Look for boards with deeper, more detailed embossing. They give the illusion of a more realistic wood-grain.

2. Keeps the sander in the shed

Decks are meant to be enjoyed, but it’s hard to relax if they require hours of maintenance that cut into summertime fun. So, before you settle on a decking material, make sure you have a realistic expectation of what is required to keep it in top-notch shape. For example, while wood decking can easily ramp up the style of your backyard, it requires regular sanding and a new coat of stain or paint to keep its attractive appearance.

If you’re looking to spend more time on the deck with a lemonade in hand than on your knees sanding, consider materials that reduce the hassle of upkeep. Many of today’s wood-alternative decking materials can create a beautiful, low-maintenance scene for your backyard by eliminating the need for annual painting, staining or sealing. And with the increase in types of decking materials, there is no need to compromise on appearance for the sake of reduced upkeep.

3. Withstands the elements

Decks need to be tough to add lasting style. They are exposed to sun, water, insects, spills and, if you have kids, the occasional marker artwork. Surprisingly, finding a decking material that can withstand these conditions is easier said than done. Without proper care, many decking products, including treated wood, will start to deteriorate with extended exposure to UV rays, moisture and insects. Deck boards that warp, splinter or rot become safety hazards that require replacement.

To spend less time replacing deck boards and more time enjoying your deck, look for products with exceptional durability. Composite decking is one offering that is specially designed to withstand the rigors of life outside.

“After investing in a new deck, the last thing homeowners want is to spend time on costly fixes. Composite decking can help keep them on deck enjoying the sun,” said Josh Landis of ChoiceDek Composite Decking. “Boards are now available that fully encapsulate wood fibers in plastic to protect against moisture intrusion all the way to the core. They resist rotting and splintering to help keep decks looking beautiful and feeling great underfoot.”

Getting started

Selecting the right decking material can be the difference between a deck with faded and splintered boards, and one that invites relaxation for years to come. With proper planning, you can get on deck with a material that will help you enjoy your outdoor living space for years to come.