Custom Decks Require Custom Features
There are many reasons customers come to us looking for a new deck.
To have more space for the growing family.
To reinforce old, loose boards.
To give the house a much needed face lift
...just to name a few!
We are diligent about walking through your specific needs and common features during the consultation process.
It is important for us to have a total understanding of what you are looking for as well as the features your lifestyle demands.
For example: Will you need an additional ramp? Reinforced railings? Extra room for a grill or a fire-pit? All things we want to know and include in the design process!
That's why when this particular customer came to us wanting the GOAT of all decks, with their #1 deck priority being low maintenance - we knew exactly what to do.
Introducing: The "low maintenance" deck
To get more specific, this customer wanted NO maintenance.
Zero.
Zilch.
Nada.
While this is something we can't promise with things like wind, weather, and humans running around 🤷 ...
We were able to promise a deck that required virtually no painting, staining, rotting, nor resurfacing.
Making for a pretty NO maintenance lifestyle.
To put into perspective, the average wood deck in Nashville, TN requires painting or staining every 3-5 years and last 15-20 years dependent on material and weather exposure.
While wood may be the best option for you, this customer wanted the GOAT - the low/no maintenance deck.
So... how did we do this?
Our first mission was to find the right materials that would be the least affected by middle Tennessee weather.
To accomplish this, we chose composite for the decking and vinyl for the railings. Thus, completely eliminating outer wood components.
As far as low maintenance decks are concerned... this is the GOAT.
One catch 22 with these materials; however, is the upfront cost.
Yes, it is true. You will pay more for composite and vinyl materials up front.
BUT with most composite boards having a guarantee of 25 years, as opposed to the 10-20 year lifespan on wood decking, it makes sense to the price tag.
At NLO, we use brands like: Trex and Deckorators, both having a 25 year warranty.
Additionally, when you add in the time and cost saved from not having to paint and resurface as you would a wood deck, we feel there is value to be found in composite and vinyl.
Most paint or staining can run $1200 - $3500 every 3-5 years. That's a savings of $10k upwards to $30k.
When looking to just sit back and "enjoy" your outdoor living space, composite decking wins... Especially as a low, or "no", maintenance option!
To get started with your outdoor home project:
Now you turn, tell us...
What are your top priorities when building a new deck or patio for your Nashville home?