Deck Trends for 2015

The weather is getting warmer and that makes us want to hang out on our decks.  Whether it's eating dinner on your outdoor table or sipping a glass of wine in a comfy chair, spending time on our decks is something most Minnesotans like to do as soon as the weather permits.

If you don't have a deck or yours is in need of a major overhaul, then read on.  We're giving you the latest trends in decks for 2015.

Composite Materials

With it's durability and low maintenance, composite decking materials continue to rise in popularity among homeowners.  Made of wood fibers and recycled plastics, composite decking is considered a luxury when it comes to deck materials.  Materials for a regular wood deck start at around $10 per square foot, where as composite materials start at about $50 per square foot.  On a 200 sf deck that's the difference between $2,000 and $10,000!

But that hasn't stopped people from using them.  They come in a wide variety of colors, they don't fade, warp, splinter, crack, and are resistant to pests.  The most maintenance you'll need is a good annual powerwashing, and you're done.

Gray is the trendy color in inside most homes and it's showing up in composite decking as well as a new color choice.

Source:  basiclandscaping.com

Curved Designs

Gone are the days of small square decks.  More and more people are realizing that beautiful decks can add a lot of visual appeal to a home.  When composite decking materials are heated they become pliable and can be bent in any shape you want.  This has led to a huge surge in curved decking designs.  

Source:  houzz.com

You can still have a beautiful curve in your deck without bending anything.  Many installers are putting in a curved design using straight boards as well.  They are functional and beautiful.

Source:  curveyourdeck.com

Multi-Level Decks

Many installers are seeing requests for multi-level decks that differentiate the use of each space.  There may be a small area for grilling, then down a step or two is a space for eating, then down again for a seating area.  The areas usually flow together well and allow for interaction between each area.

Source:  structurallyspeaking.com

Deck Lighting

Instead of a light outside the door to the house and lights on the stairs for safety, many are using lights for more aesthetic reasons.  Lights are being used to create ambiance and to highlight visually appealing aspects of the deck.

Source:  blog.louielighting.com

Source:  Michelle Schwake for Stafford Family Realtors