How Different Types of Decks Can Add Value to Your Home

Various Types Of Decks For Homes

When it comes to enhancing outdoor living spaces, choosing the right type of deck for your home is essential. Here are the different types of decks based on style and material:

By Style

• Wrap-around decks. These decks encircle the home, providing expansive outdoor space and convenient access from various rooms. They’re perfect for properties with ample yard space and great design versatility. 
• Multi-level decks. Perfect for properties with uneven terrain or slopes, multi-level decks establish separate zones for various activities linked by steps or pathways. This design enhances your outdoor space with added dimension and visual appeal.
• Attached decks. These decks are seamlessly connected to the house, often extending from the kitchen or living area, and can come in various shapes such as square, rectangular, L-shaped, or U-shaped. They enhance the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces while being cost-effective due to their shared structural support with the house.
• Detached decks. Also referred to as floating decks, these structures are constructed independently from the house and are accessed via a pathway or walkway. They offer an ideal solution for a standalone outdoor retreat and are especially appealing to DIY enthusiasts due to their more straightforward construction process. 
• Side decks. Smaller and more intimate side decks provide an ideal space for grilling or serving as a private retreat, offering seclusion and a cozy ambiance. 
• Entryway decks. Positioned at the front of the home, these decks boost curb appeal and create a warm and inviting space for visitors. When designing an entryway deck, it’s essential to ensure that it harmonizes with the style and architecture of your home.
• Rooftop decks. For those with flat roofs, a rooftop deck can transform your outdoor living experience, especially when yard space is limited. Elevated above the ground, it offers a unique vantage point and enhanced privacy, making it an exceptional addition to your home. 

By Material

• Wood. A timeless choice, wood decks bring natural beauty and warmth to any outdoor space. Timber framing can enhance the structural integrity of these decks, but they do require regular maintenance to protect against rot and insect damage. Popular wood options include cedar, bamboo, redwood, mahogany, ipe or Brazilian walnut, and pressure-treated lumber. The best type of wood for your deck will depend on your local climate and the density of trees in your yard, as both factors influence exposure to sunlight, extreme weather, and wood-destroying insects that could compromise your deck’s integrity.
• Composite boards. Crafted from wood fibers and plastic, composite decking offers durability and low maintenance. It resists rotting and wears beautifully while mimicking the look of natural wood. Certain varieties also feature slip-resistant and water-resistant properties. 
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This synthetic material offers exceptional durability and is resistant to water, mold, and insect damage, making it an ideal option for low-maintenance decking. Like composite materials, PVC comes in a wide array of colors. 
• Concrete or stone. These materials provide exceptional durability and a distinctive aesthetic, making them ideal for ground-level decks harmoniously blending with the landscape. Decks constructed from concrete or stone can endure for decades, contingent upon the quality of installation and environmental factors. 
• Aluminum. Famous for its durability and resilience against the elements, aluminum decking is perfect for regions facing harsh weather. It’s available in an array of styles and colors, allowing you to select those that complement your home beautifully.

Key Considerations When Selecting A Deck Type

Choosing the right type of deck is essential for enhancing your outdoor space. Understanding the various materials and designs will help you choose designs that align with your lifestyle and personal preferences.

• Function. Identify the deck’s primary purpose so you can choose the suitable style and materials. Is it designed for entertaining, relaxing, or enhancing curb appeal?
• Location. Consider the deck’s exposure to sunlight, rain, wind, and the overall climate to choose material that will effectively endure local conditions. 
• Structural design. Decide on the type of style you want for your home. Is your goal to extend your living space or to add value to your home? The design you pick will also determine the deck material and budget for the project. 
• Material maintenance. Evaluate the maintenance requirements of each decking material to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle and time commitment. 
• Building codes. Check local building regulations to ensure your deck design complies with necessary codes and permits. 

By carefully thinking about these factors, you can create a deck that improves your outdoor space, meets your needs, and showcases your style for years. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much value can a deck add to your home?

A well-built deck can enhance your home’s value by $10,000 to $15,000, enabling homeowners to recover a substantial portion of their investment.

When is it not advisable to install a deck?

If your only goal is to increase property value, you may not achieve a total return on your investment. It’s vital that the deck also fulfills a personal, functional, or aesthetic purpose.

Which type of deck has the longest lifespan?

Ipe or Brazilian walnut wood is a durable decking material with a lifespan of up to 75 years. However, due to its recent addition to the CITES Appendices of Endangered Species, trade will be regulated, and prices may increase. In contrast, synthetic PVC decking offers a lifespan of up to 50 years and may become a more practical choice.

What is the most affordable type of decking?

Pressure-treated wood is usually the most budget-friendly choice; however, it necessitates regular maintenance to prevent higher costs in the long run.