Vendors
With lives so busy, the natural world has become a special relaxation destination. And decking has become the must-have hardscape to remake your own backyard into your favorite newest room of the house.
- Have you thought about adding a brick fire pit or weathered stone fireplace and hearth for cool, clear evenings?
- Have you wished you could have a wet bar and comfortable lawn seating for entertaining?
- Do you have the perfect space for an outdoor kitchen or grilling area but fear it will look like an abandoned island that doesn’t belong?
Homeowners are adding all of these things in our area and using decking to define the space and pull it together. Railing and board options let you create alcoves or rooms and set the stage accordingly. Covered arbors and pergolas add flair while protecting your favorite relaxation nooks from weather. For most people the question really isn’t whether you want decking but which type to go with—composite or natural.
Decking like Trex and TimberTech are composites. They’re made from recycled materials. Trex boasts a rate of 95 percent, using recycled wood and plastic film. TimberTech decking claims up to 73 percent, with its AZEK line about half that. Both are intent on reducing the amount of materials that go to landfills by making something durable, beautiful, and useful. You can select composites that are textured with realistic wood graining or smooth, and you never have to paint or stain them. Just enjoy them in the color and texture of your choice.
Boards come with square edges or grooved, hidden fastener systems, framing, riser boards for staircases, spiral staircases, fascia, balusters and railings, fencing, and even under-deck drainage systems. You can add landscape and deck lighting to match, and Trex, for example, even offers outdoor storage and furniture. The finished impression is smooth, professional, and maintenance-free.
If you’re not a fan of composite decking and want natural wood, then natural cedar decking is the way to go. After all, much of the cedar comes from Idaho’s own forests in the northern panhandle around Sandpoint, Coeur d’Alene, and Post Falls.
Cedar is a strong wood that’s naturally resistant to insects, rot, and the twisting and cupping that can plague pressure-treated boards. Depending on your choices, it may be easier on your budget while being equally easy on the eyes. You will have to stain and seal it regularly, but the beauty and strength of natural cedar decking make it unmistakable and highly valued.
If you’d like to know more about your options for composite decking or are ready to order lengths of glowing natural cedar, our experienced team is ready to help. Stop by one of our Builders FirstSource locations in Boise, Meridian, McCall, Post Falls, or Twin Falls, and let us help you get started.