Composite Decking Is the Beautiful and Long-Lasting Deck Material You Should Know About
Selecting the right materials for exterior spaces is a critical part of any design process. While traditional wood has been a longstanding choice for decking and railing, our teams in Georgia have found that composite materials, such as those offered by TimberTech, offer significant advantages that make them a superior option for our client’s projects.
The Limitations of Traditional Wood
Traditional wood decking has a natural beauty that is hard to replicate, but it comes with several drawbacks. Wood requires regular maintenance, including staining, sealing, and repairs, to keep it looking its best and to prevent deterioration. Moreover, in harsh weather conditions, wood can warp, crack, and splinter, leading to safety hazards and unsightly appearances.
In contrast, composite decking is designed to withstand the elements. It is highly resistant to moisture, UV rays, and temperature extremes, making it an ideal choice for the variable weather conditions we experience in Georgia. Unlike wood, composite decking won’t warp, crack, or splinter, ensuring a long-lasting, safe surface for outdoor spaces.
“We’ve used composite materials on many projects over the years. Every time I revisit a home years later, it is always impressive to see how well the product holds up,” says Heather Shuster, Partner at Alair Homes Decatur.
The Advantages of Composite Decking
Composite decking, made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic, addresses many of the issues associated with traditional wood. Here’s why we prefer composite decking for exterior spaces:
1. Durability and Longevity
Composite decking from TimberTech is engineered for durability. It offers excellent resistance to moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations, ensuring it maintains its integrity over time. This durability means less maintenance and a longer lifespan compared to traditional wood.
2. Low Maintenance
One of the most significant advantages of composite decking is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike wood, which needs regular staining, sealing, and repairs, composite decking only requires periodic cleaning to maintain its appearance and functionality. This low maintenance aspect is a significant benefit for homeowners who want to enjoy their outdoor spaces without the hassle of ongoing upkeep.
3. Sustainability
Composite decking is made from recycled materials, which reduces the need for deforestation and minimizes waste. Choosing composite materials over wood helps to support environmental sustainability, an increasingly important consideration for many homeowners.
4. Aesthetic Versatility
Composite decking comes in a variety of colors and finishes that can mimic the natural look of wood or provide a modern, sleek appearance. This versatility allows homeowners to choose a style that complements their home’s architecture and personal preferences.
“Considering how special the homes we work on are, it is imperative that all products are beautiful and complement the character of historic buildings. Composite materials really deliver a product that can blend with older homes while also delivering the latest technology that ensures a long-lasting finish,” Heather notes.
5. Fire Resistance
Safety is a crucial factor in our material selection process. Composite decking offers superior fire resistance compared to traditional wood, providing homeowners with peace of mind, especially in areas prone to wildfires or where fire safety is a concern.
Why We Choose TimberTech
Among the various composite decking options, we frequently recommend TimberTech to our clients. TimberTech products combine the durability, low maintenance, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal that we look for in decking materials. Their wide range of finishes and colors allows us to achieve the perfect look for each project, ensuring that the exterior spaces we create are both functional and visually appealing.
“We love suggesting TimberTech to our homeowners. We know that it is as beautiful as it is durable,” Heather explains. “In Georgia, especially, the weather is brutal on decks, porches, and outdoor rooms. With TimberTech, we know that homeowners can be confident that they are getting a beautiful home that will last a very long time.”
Sample Project: Avondale Estates Transformation
Our recent project in Avondale Estates showcases the effective use of TimberTech – Antique Leather Deck Boards and Railing. The homeowner loved their house but needed additional space for a two-car garage and offices without compromising the property’s character. We addressed this challenge by creating a space that seamlessly blends functionality and style.
The project involved constructing a 1200 square foot accessory structure that serves multiple functions while making a bold architectural statement. The exterior features TimberTech decking, which complements the main house’s aesthetic and provides a durable, low-maintenance surface for the open deck space.
The new structure includes a large sliding door unit that floods the living room and kitchenette with natural light, creating an airy and bright interior. The bathroom is spacious and functional, while the office has ample room for visiting clients and can be converted into a bedroom with generous closet space if needs change.
This project was completed in just 5 months and has already garnered significant recognition. We are proud to announce that it won the Contractor of the Year Award for 2024 in the Detached Structure category for the Southeast Region. This accolade reflects our dedication to quality and excellence in every project we undertake.
Collaboration and Acknowledgements
The success of this project was made possible through our collaboration with TK Architect, who provided exceptional design expertise, and the stunning photography by Jeff Herr Photography, which beautifully captures the elegance and functionality of the new space. To see more of this home, visit the project at Alair Decatur.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
We believe that the materials we choose for exterior spaces should enhance a home’s beauty and functionality. Composite decking, particularly from TimberTech, provides the durability, low maintenance, sustainability, and aesthetic versatility that make it an excellent choice over traditional wood. By selecting high-quality composite materials, we ensure that our projects not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients, creating outdoor spaces that can be enjoyed for years to come.
For more information about our projects and how we can help transform your home’s exterior, please visit our website or contact us directly at Alair Decatur, Alair Buckhead, Alair Marietta, or Alair Savannah. We look forward to bringing your vision to life with the same dedication and excellence that defines Alair Homes.