Build It To Last, No Matter The Forecast
Ever wondered how to enjoy your deck through rain, snow, and sunshine? Curious about which materials hold up best when the seasons change?
In this post, you’ll learn about the best all season decking materials, design elements that maximize comfort, and the climate control options that help you use your deck all year long.
By the end, you’ll know how to plan your all season deck installation in Illinois.
Quick Guide To All Season Decking
When choosing all season decking, the choice of materials is crucial to ensuring year-round durability. Composite decking is an excellent option because it resists moisture, fading, and warping, making it perfect for handling the hot summers and snowy winters of Illinois. For those who prefer the natural look of wood, using moisture-resistant options like cedar or pressure-treated pine can still offer durability with proper sealing and maintenance.
What Is All Season Decking?
All season decking refers to decking designed to withstand various weather conditions year-round. This means choosing decking materials that endure extreme weather. Whether you’re enjoying a fall afternoon or hosting a winter gathering, all season decking ensures your outdoor living space stays functional.
Why Materials Matter Most
The choice of quality materials is critical when planning a custom deck for year-round use.
Traditional wood might give your deck a natural, classic look, but composite decking materials are more durable and require less maintenance.
Composite decking resists fading, moisture, and mold, making it a superior choice for year-round decking in Illinois.
Best Materials For All Season Decking
Composite Decking
Composite decking is a top choice for deck builders because it mimics the appearance of traditional wood while being significantly more durable.
It resists wear from rain, snow, and intense sun. It’s perfect for outdoor spaces that need to survive through all the seasons.
The low-maintenance nature of composite decking means less time cleaning and sealing and more time enjoying your outdoor deck.
Moisture-Resistant Wood Options
For those who prefer the look and feel of real wood, there are still excellent choices that can withstand the elements year-round.
Pressure-treated pine, cedar, and redwood are popular for their natural resistance to moisture and decay.
While these require more maintenance than composite, they can still be a good choice for your all season decking if properly sealed and cared for.
Which wood should you choose for your deck?
Aluminum And Vinyl Railings
To complete your custom deck, consider weather-resistant materials for railings.
Aluminum and vinyl railings are both durable and low-maintenance. They resist corrosion and keep their look intact despite constant exposure to the elements.
Want to know the pros and cons of different deck materials?
Design Elements To Enhance Your All Season Deck
Screened-In Porch
Adding a screened-in porch can complement your all season decking. A screened enclosure provides protection from bugs, wind, and rain while maintaining airflow.
Sunrooms And Enclosures
For a full year-round experience, consider building a sunroom or glass enclosure.
This allows you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while protecting your deck boards and furnishings from snow, wind, and cold. Plus, it keeps your outdoor living area accessible during all seasons.
This is a great option if you want to extend the usability of your deck into colder months without sacrificing comfort.
Retractable Awnings And Canopies
Retractable awnings and canopies offer flexible solutions for deck shade and weather protection.
When the summer sun is at its peak, simply extend the awning to protect your deck from harmful UV rays.
During winter or cooler days, retract it to enjoy the natural light.
It’s a versatile option for homeowners who want durable solutions that adapt to changing weather.
Climate-Control Solutions For Comfort
Outdoor Heaters And Fire Pits
To ensure you can enjoy your deck year-round, consider installing heating options like outdoor heaters or fire pits. These solutions allow you to comfortably enjoy your outdoor space even during chilly winters.
A fire pit provides warmth and acts as a central feature that can make your deck more inviting.
What are the best fire pits to choose from?
Ceiling Fans And Misting Systems
For the hot summer months, ceiling fans or misting systems can keep your deck cool and comfortable.
These climate control solutions are compatible with composite decking and natural wood. They help to maintain a pleasant atmosphere so you can use your deck even during the hottest days of the year.
Shading And Weather Protection For Your Deck
Pergolas And Arbors
Installing a pergola or arbor over your deck provides shade and offers protection from the sun’s harsh rays. Pergolas are popular because they allow airflow while creating a partially covered area.
Adjustable Awnings
Adjustable awnings provide flexibility, allowing you to protect your decking from both intense sun and light rain. By retracting or extending the awning, you can adjust the deck space based on the season.
Landscaping And Privacy Enhancements
Evergreen And Deciduous Plants
Incorporating landscaping around your deck can provide both deck privacy and functional shading.
Evergreen plants maintain year-round greenery. It can make your deck feel secluded and private.
Deciduous plants offer summer shade and allow winter sunlight to warm the area.
Vertical Gardens And Trellises
If space is a concern, vertical gardens or trellises can be a great way to add greenery and privacy to your deck without taking up too much room.
These features enhance the look of your outdoor space, offer a buffer from the wind, and provide shade during hotter months.
Maintenance Tips For All Season Decking
Regular Cleaning And Inspection
To maintain the beauty and durability of your all season decking, regular cleaning is essential.
Make sure to sweep away debris and scrub the surface at least twice a year to prevent dirt buildup.
Regular inspections will help you catch any issues like loose boards or damaged decking materials before they become larger problems.
Water Sealing And Staining For Wood Decks
For those with natural wood decks, applying a water-resistant sealant every 2-3 years is vital to protect the wood from moisture and prevent rotting or warping.
Staining or painting your deck will help it withstand Illinois’ harsh winters and summer heat.
Using heat-resistant decking can help beat the summer heat, too.
‘Tis Always The Season With Hard Decks
At Hard Decks, we specialize in all season decking that’s built to last through Illinois’ harsh winters and hot summers. Our team of expert deck builders can create a custom deck that fits your needs, ensuring your outdoor living space is ready for every season.
Ready to enjoy your outdoor deck year-round? Fill out our contact form today, or give us a call to get started on your dream deck installation.