Durable Decks Add Enjoyment and Long-Term Value

(ARA) - With the housing market in uncertain territory, many homeowners are choosing to stay in their homes and undertake home improvement projects that offer immediate benefits, as well as a good return on investment. Building a sturdy deck is one way homeowners are creating a home they can enjoy more now, while looking smartly ahead in case they want to sell later.

According to Remodeling magazine's 2007 Cost vs. Value report, adding a deck constructed with composite decking, a decking material made of combined wood and plastic, can be expected to yield an approximate 77 percent cost recovery on average at resale. Composite decks rank higher than the national average of cost recovered for a major kitchen remodel or bathroom remodel - two types of projects homeowners often undertake to make their homes more appealing.

Expanding Living Space
Building a deck expands living space, as many homeowners are using their decks for longer periods of the year. Decks are now considered another room of the home.

According to a 2007 report from The NPD Group, Inc., eight out of ten consumers prefer outdoor entertaining to indoor, weather permitting. And, with new home construction slowing, there are potentially more remodelers available to homeowners desiring to take on home improvement projects.

One consideration for homeowners planning to add a deck is to look at other decks in their area to determine the appropriate size and scope of their deck project for their neighborhood. Homeowners should also consider a decking material that will last in the long term. Not only will homeowners enjoy a durable, inviting deck while they live in the home, but the type of material they use can help determine how well it will retain its value over time.

Materials
Decking materials must be able to withstand years of exposure to the elements and hold up well to temperature changes, sun exposure, and rain. They also must be attractive and complement the house and existing landscaping.

Many homeowners are turning to wood-plastic composite decking, such as ChoiceDek composite decking, for durable decking material that does not require staining or painting. Composite decking is also resistant to moisture and decay. And, the material will not splinter or crack. Composite decking does require periodic cleaning, which can be accomplished with widely available commercial deck cleaners.

For homeowners searching for environmentally responsible materials, some wood-plastic composite decking is made from recycled materials, potentially keeping unused waste out of landfills. Such composite decking consists of recycled polyethylene plastics that are re-used from common items such as grocery bags.

"With outdoor living continuing to increase, homeowners who add a deck are essentially adding to the square footage of the home," says Sue Snuggs of Weyerhaeuser. "In addition to providing a good recovery of cost at resale, building a deck with composite decking makes the home more attractive to potential buyers who are looking for a home with a deck that does not need to be stained every year."

Building a durable deck offers immediate enjoyment for friends and family, extends living space outdoors, and offers long-term value. As some homeowners decide in favor of remodeling over selling in a challenging housing market, adding a composite deck can help them ensure their remodeling dollars are spent wisely.

To learn more about ChoiceDek composite decking and railing products that combine recycled materials with the classic appearance of wood, visit www.choicedek.com or your local Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse. In the United States, call (800) 951-5117 to speak with a Weyerhaeuser representative.

Courtesy of ARAcontent