Charleston Homeowners Seek Durable Deck Solutions Amid Climate Challenges

Charleston Homeowners Seek Durable Deck Solutions Amid Climate Challenges

The beautiful city of Charleston is known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor living spaces, but a looming question for homeowners is: how do we keep our decks looking great amid the Lowcountry’s challenging climate? With the mix of heat, humidity, and coastal saltwater, it’s essential to choose the right materials and maintenance strategies that can stand the test of time.

Proactive Choices for Lasting Outdoor Spaces

Contractor Scott Vasko, who has more than three decades of experience in construction, highlights that homeowners like April Reeder in Knightsville are increasingly aware of this issue. April and her husband, Justin, are currently expanding and rebuilding their back deck into a wonderful screened-in porch. They’ve opted for popular composite decking materials for durability.

“We want our backyard to function as a gathering spot for our friends and family,” April voiced, pointing to the bustling work going on with the new deck. After previous experiences with traditional wood decks, she’s thrilled to invest in a material that promises better longevity.

Understanding Material Choices

When it comes to decking, Vasko explains that the most commonly chosen materials are TimberTech and Trex. These composite blends of wood and plastic fibers are designed to withstand the Lowcountry’s humidity while minimizing maintenance. However, the investment can be substantial — costing three to five times more than treated wood options.

If you’re working with a tighter budget, pressure-treated kiln-dried wood can be an alternative, but Vasko is quick to emphasize the importance of maintenance. “If you reseal it twice a year for the first two years, you build up a really good resistance that’ll help the wood last longer,” he said.

The Hidden Costs of Neglect

It’s a harsh reality that wooden decks don’t last as long as they used to. This decline in durability is linked to multiple factors, including the types of materials used and an overall change in treatment regulations. “Ground-contact pressure-treated wood is the best choice for framing a deck, ensuring its longevity,” Vasko explains, but not everyone is aware of these distinctions.

Residents like Don Bailey from Mount Pleasant learned this the hard way when his front porch needed a complete overhaul after years of neglect. “The whole thing was unsafe and in disrepair,” he remarked about his previous wooden deck, which had suffered from exposure to the elements. He chose Trex for its durability, acknowledging the higher initial investment as worthwhile.

Current Trends in Decking

The trend toward covered and screened-in decks is gaining traction in the Lowcountry. Local realtor Val Weber recently built a screened-in wood deck in her backyard, extending her family’s living space while increasing the home’s overall value. Despite the $35,000 price tag, she believes the investment will pay off, especially when it comes time to sell.

As more new neighborhoods emerge with concrete patios instead of traditional decks, Vasko notes a shift in preferences among homeowners. This newer approach may seem economically advantageous, but it opens up discussions about the allure of having an inviting wooden space for gatherings.

The Future of Deck Building

While the demand for new deck constructions remains steady, Vasko reports a considerable number of inquiries for maintenance and repairs. He constructs around 50 decks a year, focusing on areas like Mount Pleasant and the surrounding islands. However, with the materials market continuously fluctuating, prices for deck building have risen since the lumber shortages of 2020 and 2021.

Homeowners, if you’re considering enhancing your outdoor spaces, remember that a well-constructed deck is an investment, not just in your property’s value, but in its potential to create lasting memories. Whether it’s through choosing the right materials or maintaining them regularly, proactive steps can ensure your deck becomes more than just a structure; it can become the heart of your home.

For anyone looking to build or refurbish their deck this season, it’s always worth consulting with an experienced contractor who understands the local climate’s impacts on materials and design. Happy decking!