At Archadeck of Akron, this simple question is often asked when planning a deck project. Folks want to know what the standards for materials mixing are, and whether it’s an outdoor living design faux pas. The answer is quite simple – YES, you can mix materials!
When it comes to designing your dream deck, we understand that most clients do not bring an unlimited budget to the table. Archadeck of Akron will remain cognizant of your outdoor living design and building requirements, from style, to function, and always, your budget. Cost is the foremost reason we are asked about mixing low-maintenance composite and PVC decking with pressure-treated wood. We understand such concerns, and we are happy to tell you that there are several ways to mix and match materials to keep your cost-to-build reined in!
— This screened porch and deck combination space by Archadeck is a good example of mixing low-maintenance decking with a PT wooden rail.
Using PT wood framing and uprights that will essentially be hidden from view is one very easy way to save money by mixing wood with your new low-maintenance deck. Even using low-maintenance balusters with a PT rail cap will save cost, and still look fantastic. Add a low-maintenance top cap to the PT framing to further tie in your low-maintenance decking with the railing! Considering that our hands come into contact with railing caps, a low-maintenance cap is a great idea for usability – no splintering!
The flipside of that idea for your new Akron deck?
— Archadeck of Akron resurfaced this deck using low-maintenance TimberTech composite decking with a low-maintenance rail.
So maybe you are really looking to save money on your new deck project, and decide to go with an all-wood deck. Or perhaps you just prefer wood over composite or PVC materials. No problem there either! You can have a wood deck, and still add a designer and low-maintenance element by way of low-maintenance railings. A full aluminum balustrade will save you oodles of time in maintenance and will look fantastic with your new wood deck. Some aluminum railings can also be fitted to accommodate a wood or composite material top cap.
Akron outdoor living is about fusing design aesthetics and budgetary requirements.
Consider the idea of mixing materials in your outdoor space as you would put together a new suit and tie, or a living room rug and home accents. Textures, patterns, and colors are all meant to work beyond their assigned motifs. When it comes to selecting any outdoor living building material, Archadeck of Akron has the design experience to show you what choices will look great together, along with your home’s existing finishes. We will also help you make such decisions with cost in mind, and we can expertly guide you toward materials that will age well together.
— This outdoor living space utilizes materials of various mediums.
The main thing to keep in mind is to never be afraid to ask! Every question is important when it comes to giving our clients their ideal outdoor living area.
If you are you ready to build your dream Akron outdoor living space, Archadeck of Akron is ready to design your perfect deck using wood, synthetic or a mix of both. Contact us today to schedule your free design consultation. You can reach us at (330) 537-6412.
Patrick Sluss, owner Archadeck of Akron
