How to Build a Long-Lasting Fence or Deck
Adding a deck or fence can boost your home’s curb appeal and overall value. Landscape management experts commonly praise fences and decks for the fact that they create comfortable outdoor living spaces. Professional landscaping gurus, however, also have plenty of first-hand knowledge on how terrible a run-down deck or fence can look. Fortunately, there are plenty of low-maintenance, long lasting decking and fencing materials that will compliment your landscaping.
Beaverton and surrounding areas see almost fifty inches of rain per year, so your first concern when choosing a building material is finding something that can withstand excessive moisture. Water can seep into conventional wood fence or deck materials, creating cracks and splinters, which are only exacerbated by summer sun. A wood fence or deck can last for decades – assuming you’re willing to sand and stain it regularly.
In contrast, the new fencing and decking materials listed below require very little maintenance and are naturally able to endure the months of wet weather that bring out the lush emerald green in your landscaping. Beaverton and Portland are the perfect locations for the low-stress, low-maintenance deck and fence materials listed below.
Vinyl Plastic Deck and Fence Materials
That guy in “Mrs. Robinson” was right – we are in the age of plastics. Decks and fences made of vinyl are completely free of splinters and cracks. They require virtually no maintenance, aside from occasional cleaning with soap and water. Many manufacturers offer lifetime guarantees for their vinyl fencing and decking materials. One word to the wise about vinyl: Choose a material that includes UV protection and colorfast treatment. This will protect your vinyl fence or deck from becoming brittle and fading with age.
Plastic-Wood Composites
Mix recycled plastic and wood fibers, and what do you get? Virtually indestructible deck or fence material. Composite decking and fencing is growing in popularity. In fact, the composite decking industry has seen double-digit growth over the last few years. No wonder, since professional landscaping specialists recommend composites as a material that looks warm and natural with surrounding flora.
The wood and plastic work together in composites to create a near-perfect building material; the wood adds strength and flexibility to heat and cool with weather, while the plastic protects your deck or fence from moisture. Again, check that the composite decking and fencing you choose includes protection against fading. Not all city codes allow composite decking, so always check with local laws before erecting a new fence or deck. Finally, keep in mind that not all composite decking sits on traditional 16- or 24-inch joists; instead, the joists may be narrower, meaning you’ll see a higher overall cost for materials.
By building your fence or deck with vinyl or composite materials, you’ll save yourself hours of maintenance down the road.
