A deck is one of the most cost-effective additions you can make to your home. Not only does it create extra living space to enjoy during the warmer months, it also adds to your home’s overall value—an important factor whether you’re planning to sell soon or stay awhile.
For the best return on your deck-building investment, plan on a deck size that makes sense for its most frequent uses and the space available. If you frequently entertain large groups or have lots of family meals outside during spring and summer, a larger deck surface is needed. But if the deck is basically a grilling area and gateway to a larger patio, you can scale back its size.
The decking material you choose is also critical to the long-term value of your investment. Durable decking will provide a space for you to enjoy now and for a buyer to enjoy for many years to come. And if the material is easy to care for, all the better, because prospective maintenance needs make a difference for most home shoppers.
Plan a deck design that is beautiful, durable, affordable and low-maintenance with Trex Enhance decking, in stock at The Home Depot. The classic wood-grain texture and fade-resistant color of Trex Enhance provide the look of natural wood without the upkeep hassles of regular sanding, painting and staining. Just an occasional soap and water cleaning is all that’s needed. What’s more, using Trex Hidden Fasteners creates a smooth deck surface free of nails, for a clean look and a cost that’s 40 percent lower than other deck fasteners.
A Trex Enhance deck also provides the ultimate peace of mind, as your investment is protected by two 25-year limited residential warranties covering manufacturer defects and fading and staining. Visit homedepot.trex.com to get a closer look at Trex Enhance and to plan a value-adding outdoor space you can be proud of.
Tom,
I have 3 decks/porches on my home that I need to change out. I presently have 2 x 6 wood on them. I am tired of the constant maintenance and short life of wood in hot and humid East Texas. Do you have an opinion on using aluminum rather than composite for an alternative to wood? The aluminum seems to be somewhat less costly and is lighter than composite and may even be stronger. The aluminum manufactures also have a model that leaves no seam between the planks but requires a slight incline to allow water to drain. I am concerned about the scratch resistance of the aluminum which is also a consideration with the composite but a scratch of the aluminum may be more obvious. There are two types of coatings that I have found for the aluminum namely powder coat (thin) and polyurea (thick). I guess the aluminum is relatively new since I have not found any installations that I can examine.
Joe I am not familiar with aluminum decking but the first concern that comes to mind is heat. I imagine the deck might get as hot as a frying pan in that Texas sun. Some composite decks offer a low-e coating that reflects the heat, while also needing very little maintenance. That might be an option. If the structure is solid, you’d only have to replace the decking and railings.