Stain vs. Paint for Decks: What’s Best for Your Omaha Home?

Stain vs. Paint for Decks: What’s Best for Your Omaha Home?

When it comes to finishing your deck, two popular options are staining and painting. Each has its own set of advantages and considerations, and the right choice for your home in Omaha, NE, depends on several factors including appearance, maintenance, and weather conditions. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.

Stain: A Natural Look with Practical Benefits

What is Deck Stain? Deck stain is a protective finish that enhances the natural beauty of wood while providing a layer of protection against the elements. It comes in various types, including semi-transparent, solid, and toner.

The 5 Secrets To Staining A Deck - How To Paint Or Stain A Deck To Last!

Advantages of Deck Stain:

  • Natural Appearance: Stain enhances the natural grain of the wood, giving your deck a warm, rustic look.
  • Low Maintenance: Stain typically requires less frequent application than paint. It doesn’t peel or chip, so maintenance is usually limited to periodic reapplication.
  • Weather Resistance: Stain penetrates the wood, offering good protection against moisture and UV damage, which is crucial for Omaha’s varying climate.

Disadvantages of Deck Stain:

  • Color Fading: Over time, the color of the stain can fade due to sun exposure and weather conditions, requiring reapplication to maintain the appearance.
  • Limited Color Options: Stain offers fewer color options compared to paint, which might limit your design choices.

Paint: A Vibrant, Durable Finish

What is Deck Paint? Deck paint is a solid finish that covers the wood entirely, providing a layer of color and protection. It is available in various colors and finishes, from matte to glossy.

Deck Painting Tips - How to Prepare an Old Deck for Painting | Five Star  Painting

Advantages of Deck Paint:

  • Wide Range of Colors: Paint offers a broader spectrum of colors and finishes, allowing you to achieve a more customized look.
  • Durability: High-quality deck paint forms a hard, protective layer that can help shield the wood from harsh weather, foot traffic, and stains.
  • Conceals Imperfections: Paint can effectively cover imperfections and uneven surfaces in the wood, providing a uniform appearance.

Disadvantages of Deck Paint:

  • Maintenance Requirements: Paint can peel or chip over time, especially with heavy foot traffic or severe weather conditions. It requires regular touch-ups and eventual repainting.
  • Preparation Time: Proper surface preparation is crucial for paint to adhere correctly, which can be more time-consuming compared to staining.

Key Considerations for Omaha, NE

  • Weather Conditions: Omaha’s weather, with its hot summers and cold winters, can impact the longevity of both stain and paint. Choose a product designed to withstand extreme temperatures and varying moisture levels.
  • Deck Usage: Consider how much wear and tear your deck will experience. High-traffic areas may benefit more from the durability of paint, while stain may be suitable for decks with lighter use.
  • Aesthetic Preferences: Think about whether you prefer the natural look of stained wood or the vibrant, uniform color of painted surfaces.

Conclusion

Both stain and paint offer distinct advantages for finishing your deck, and the best choice for your Omaha home depends on your specific needs and preferences. Stain is ideal for showcasing the natural beauty of wood with minimal maintenance, while paint provides a vibrant, durable finish that can cover imperfections and offer a range of colors.

Top US Decking Companies : Part 2

Top US Decking Companies: Part 2

Introduction
Continuing from our previous post, this second part of our series highlights more top decking companies that offer exceptional products and innovations. Discover what makes these brands stand out in the decking industry.

Envision Decking

Envision provides a range of composite decking options designed to mimic the look of natural wood while offering superior durability. The Envision EverGrain and Envision Distinction collections offer a variety of colors and textures to suit different styles.

Composite Decking Products | Envision Outdoor Living

Zuri Decking

Zuri offers premium decking products that combine the look of natural wood with the durability of composite materials. The Zuri Premium Decking series is known for its realistic wood grain patterns and low maintenance requirements.

Zuri® | Royal Building Solutions

NewTechWood Decking

NewTechWood specializes in composite decking with a focus on sustainability and performance. The NewTechWood UltraShield series features advanced technology for weather resistance and longevity.

Decking | NewTechWood

Renew Decking

Renew offers eco-friendly decking options made from recycled materials. The Renew Decking series provides a sustainable choice without compromising on performance or appearance.

RENEW Decking

Deckorators Decking

Deckorators offers a variety of decking products with innovative features. The Deckorators Voyage and Deckorators Heritage collections provide style and durability, with options for both traditional and modern designs.

Deckorators 7/8" x 5-1/2" Voyage Mineral Based Composite Decking

Fortress Decking

Fortress provides decking solutions that combine strength and style. The Fortress Infinity and Fortress Feeney collections offer durable and attractive options for various outdoor settings.

Fortress sells composite decking business | HBS Dealer

TruNorth Decking

TruNorth focuses on high-performance composite decking products that offer a natural wood look with enhanced durability. The TruNorth Decking series is designed to withstand the elements and require minimal maintenance.

TruNorth | Clubhouse | Composite & PVC Decking | Fencing

Acre by Modern Mill

Acre by Modern Mill provides eco-friendly decking solutions made from rice hulls. The Acre Decking series combines sustainability with durability and modern aesthetics.

Enhance Your Deck with Luxury Decking from Acre Decking - Modern Mill

DuxxBak Decking

DuxxBak offers a unique, water-shedding composite decking solution. The DuxxBak Decking series is designed to prevent water from seeping through, making it ideal for creating dry spaces below decks.

Shop | Order Samples | DuxxBak Composite Decking

Armadillo Decking

Armadillo provides a range of composite decking products that are both eco-friendly and stylish. The Armadillo Classic and Armadillo Lifestyle collections offer various colors and textures to suit different preferences.

Armadillo Composite Decking Home : Armadillo Deck

Millboard Decking

Millboard offers premium decking with a natural wood look. The Millboard Enhanced Grain and Millboard Resilient Plank collections provide high-quality options that resist weathering and maintain their appearance.

Millboard Antique Oak Composite Decking Deck Boards - MULTIPLE AVAILABLE

VekaDeck

VekaDeck provides durable composite decking with a range of colors and textures. The VekaDeck series is known for its resistance to fading and staining, making it a reliable choice for various outdoor applications.

VEKAdeck - Advanced Cellular PVC Decking

Wolf Decking

Wolf Decking offers a variety of options that balance affordability and performance. The Wolf Serenity and Wolf Perspective collections feature different colors and styles to enhance any outdoor space.

Composite Outdoor Decking Materials | Wolf Home Products

Admiral Spacemaker Decking

Admiral Spacemaker Decking provides innovative solutions for outdoor spaces, including integrated lighting and storage options. The Admiral Spacemaker Decking series combines functionality with style.

Admiral™ SpaceMaker™ – Ultimate T&G Watertight Deck Flooring Board

Weardeck

Weardeck offers high-performance composite decking products designed to withstand the elements. The Weardeck Decking series provides durability and style for various outdoor settings.

WearDeck® Composite Deck Board - 5/4" x 6"

Cali-Bamboo Decking

Cali-Bamboo specializes in bamboo-based decking solutions that are both sustainable and stylish. The Cali-Bamboo Decking series includes options for a natural look with the benefits of bamboo’s strength.

Cali Bamboo's BamDeck Fossilized Strand Bamboo Deck Boards | Builder Magazine

CertainTeed EverNew

CertainTeed EverNew provides composite decking with a focus on performance and aesthetics. The CertainTeed EverNew series offers a range of colors and styles to suit various outdoor environments.

CertainTeed EverNew Vinyl Decking Review - Consumer Reports

Evergrain Decking

Evergrain offers composite decking products with a natural wood look and excellent durability. The Evergrain Decking series is known for its long-lasting performance and low maintenance.

Tamko Decking – East Side Lumberyard Supply Co. Inc.

AERT Decking

AERT provides high-quality composite decking solutions with a focus on sustainability and performance. The AERT Decking series combines advanced technology with eco-friendly materials.

Oldcastle-Architectural-acquires-deck-profile-maker-AERT | Plastics News

Conclusion
In this second part of our series, we’ve covered additional top decking companies, including Envision, Zuri, and NewTechWood. Each brand offers unique features and benefits, helping you find the perfect decking solution for your project. Stay tuned for further insights into the decking industry.

Top US Decking Companies

Top US Decking Companies: Part 1

Introduction
The decking market in the US is diverse, with numerous brands offering a wide array of options for every type of outdoor space. In this first part of our series, we explore some of the leading decking companies known for their innovation, quality, and performance. Discover what sets these brands apart and how they can meet your decking needs.

Trex Decking

Trex is a prominent name in the decking industry, known for its high-quality composite products. The Trex Transcend series, including the Trex Transcend Tropical and Trex Transcend Earth Tones, offers rich, long-lasting colors. Trex Enhance, with its Trex Enhance Naturals collection, provides an affordable yet durable option. Complementing the decking are Trex Signature Railing, Trex Outdoor Lighting, and Trex Pergola solutions.

Discover Trex® Products: Composite Decking, Railing, & more | Trex

Fiberon Decking

Fiberon offers a variety of decking solutions designed for durability and style. The Fiberon ArmorGuard and Fiberon Concordia collections are known for their resistance to stains and fading. Fiberon Good Life is a cost-effective series that still delivers excellent performance. Fiberon Decking also emphasizes sustainability by using recycled materials.

Top Fiberon Decking Review: Sacramento's Best Outdoor Living Solution!

Azek/TimberTech Decking

Azek Building Products, Inc., commonly known as TimberTech, provides premium decking options with exceptional durability and aesthetic appeal. The TimberTech Azek and TimberTech Pro collections, including the TimberTech Legacy series, are designed to resist fading, scratching, and staining. TimberTech Railing and TimberTech Outdoor Lighting are also available to enhance your deck’s functionality and style.

New Year, New TimberTech PRO Reserve Collection Decking | Archadeck of Kansas City

Barrette Outdoor Living/DuraLife

Barrette Outdoor Living offers DuraLife decking products that provide durability and style. The DuraLife Siesta and DuraLife Vista collections are known for their resistance to fading and staining, making them ideal for various outdoor applications.

DuraLife Decking - Composite Decking - by Barrette Outdoor Living

MoistureShield Decking

MoistureShield specializes in decking that is highly resistant to moisture. The MoistureShield Infinity series features CoolDeck technology to reduce heat absorption, while the MoistureShield Vantage series offers durability and a range of colors and textures.

MoistureShield Composite Deck Installation Instructions

Veranda Decking

Veranda provides a range of composite decking products designed to offer durability and low maintenance. With various colors and styles, Veranda Decking is a versatile option for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor spaces.

Veranda Decking: Composite vs Wood for Best Results

Lumberock Decking

Lumberock offers a unique combination of durability and aesthetic appeal with its composite decking. Known for its resistance to weathering and low maintenance, Lumberock Decking is an excellent choice for any outdoor project.

Lumberock Marine Grade Decking

Conclusion
In this first part of our series, we’ve explored some of the top US decking companies, including Trex, Fiberon, and Azek/TimberTech. Each brand offers unique features and benefits, making it easier to find the perfect decking solution for your outdoor needs. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll continue to explore more leading decking brands.

Trex’s Color Options

Transform Your Deck with Trex’s Colorful Options and Outdoor Solutions

Introduction
Deckorators offers an array of decking options that allow you to create a personalized outdoor space. This blog focuses on the diverse color options and additional outdoor solutions offered by Trex, including Trex Elevations, Trex Outdoor Kitchens, and more. Explore how these elements can enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor area.

Colorful Decking Options
Trex provides a variety of color choices to match any design preference. The Trex Transcend Tropicals series features vibrant colors like Havana Gold and Spiced Rum, perfect for a tropical-inspired deck. For a more classic look, the Trex Enhance Basics series offers options such as Rope Swing and Tree House, while the Trex Enhance Naturals series includes colors like Foggy Wharf and Rocky Harbor for a natural, understated appearance. The Trex Select Earth Tones series provides options like Toasted Sand and Coastal Bluff, ideal for a refined and elegant deck.

Trex Transcend Rope Swing Decking

Outdoor Solutions
In addition to decking, Trex offers a range of outdoor solutions to complete your space. The Trex Outdoor Kitchens provide a functional and stylish addition, perfect for entertaining. The Trex Shadetree Canopy System offers protection from the sun, while Trex Spiral Stairs add a unique architectural element. Enhance your deck with Trex Outdoor Lighting and Trex Latticeworks for added style and functionality.

Additional Features
Consider adding Trex Cornhole for recreational fun and Trex Pergola for a stylish, shaded area. Trex Elevations provide a strong foundation for your deck, ensuring durability and stability. The Trex Fascia adds a polished finish to your deck edges, while Trex Signature Railing and Trex Select Railing offer stylish and durable railing options.

Conclusion
With Trex’s diverse color options and outdoor solutions, you can create a deck that reflects your personal style and meets your functional needs. Explore the range of decking choices and additional features to transform your outdoor space into a beautiful and enjoyable retreat.

The Pros and Cons of Rooftop Decks

The Pros and Cons of Rooftop Decks

Rooftop decks are becoming increasingly popular for homeowners looking to maximize their outdoor living space and enjoy stunning views. They offer a unique way to expand your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. However, before you invest in a rooftop deck, it’s important to weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks. Here’s a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of rooftop decks to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Rooftop Decks

1. Stunning Views:

  • One of the main attractions of a rooftop deck is the panoramic views it offers. Whether you’re overlooking a city skyline, a natural landscape, or your own neighborhood, a rooftop deck can provide a breathtaking vantage point.

2. Maximizing Space:

  • Rooftop decks are an excellent way to make use of unused roof space. They can create additional living areas without expanding the footprint of your home, making them ideal for properties with limited ground space.

3. Enhanced Privacy:

  • Elevated above street level, a rooftop deck often provides more privacy than ground-level outdoor spaces. It’s a great place to relax without the constant gaze of neighbors or passersby.

4. Entertainment and Socializing:

  • Rooftop decks are perfect for entertaining guests, hosting parties, or simply enjoying a quiet evening outdoors. They offer ample space for outdoor furniture, grills, and even rooftop gardens.

5. Increased Property Value:

  • A well-designed rooftop deck can enhance your home’s appeal and potentially increase its market value. It’s a desirable feature for many buyers looking for unique and functional outdoor spaces.

310+ Roof Deck New York Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images -  iStock | Balcony new york

Cons of Rooftop Decks

1. Cost of Installation:

  • Building a rooftop deck can be expensive. Costs include structural modifications, waterproofing, railings, and other considerations. It’s essential to budget for both the initial installation and ongoing maintenance.

2. Maintenance Challenges:

  • Rooftop decks require regular maintenance to prevent issues like leaks, debris buildup, and weather damage. Keeping the deck clean and in good condition can be more challenging compared to ground-level outdoor spaces.

3. Structural Considerations:

  • Not all buildings are suitable for rooftop decks. Adding a deck may require significant structural modifications to ensure the roof can support the additional weight. Consulting with a structural engineer is essential to determine feasibility.

4. Weather Exposure:

  • Rooftop decks are exposed to the elements, which means they can experience harsher weather conditions compared to ground-level decks. This includes stronger winds, more intense sunlight, and potential snow accumulation.

5. Accessibility Issues:

  • Accessing a rooftop deck typically involves stairs or ladders, which can be inconvenient and challenging for some people. Consider how easy it will be to get to the deck and whether it will meet your needs and those of your guests.

Conclusion

Rooftop decks offer a range of benefits, including stunning views, increased privacy, and additional living space. However, they also come with challenges such as high costs, maintenance requirements, and structural considerations. Before deciding to build a rooftop deck, carefully evaluate the pros and cons to ensure it aligns with your needs, budget, and lifestyle.

Trex Transcend and Trex Enhance Decking

Elevate Your Outdoor Space with Trex Transcend and Trex Enhance Decking

Introduction
When it comes to creating a stunning and durable outdoor space, Trex offers an impressive range of decking options. Two standout collections are the Trex Transcend and Trex Enhance series, each offering unique benefits and aesthetic choices. In this blog, we’ll explore these collections in detail, highlighting their features, color options, and how they can transform your outdoor living area.

Trex Transcend: Luxury Meets Performance
The Trex Transcend collection is known for its premium quality and luxurious appearance. With options like Island Mist and Tiki Torch, this collection offers a sophisticated look that complements any outdoor setting. The Trex Transcend Tropicals series, including colors like Havana Gold and Spiced Rum, brings a touch of exotic elegance to your deck. For those seeking a more understated aesthetic, the Trex Transcend Earth Tones series features colors such as Lava Rock and Gravel Path, providing a natural and refined look.

Trex Deck Board Spacing - AdvantageLumber Blog

Trex Enhance: Practical Elegance
The Trex Enhance collection combines affordability with style. The Trex Enhance Basics series offers versatile options like Rope Swing and Tree House, perfect for a variety of design preferences. For a more natural look, the Trex Enhance Naturals series features colors such as Pebble Grey and Winchester Grey, offering a refined and practical solution for your decking needs.

Additional Features
Both collections are complemented by a range of Trex Signature Railing and Trex Transcend Railing options, providing stylish and durable railing solutions. Enhance your deck further with Trex Outdoor Lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere for evening gatherings. Additionally, Trex Fascia and Trex Pergola can be used to complete the look of your outdoor space.

Conclusion
Whether you choose the luxurious Trex Transcend or the practical Trex Enhance collections, Trex offers a variety of options to suit your style and needs. With diverse color choices and complementary features, you can create an outdoor space that is both beautiful and functional.

Trex Decking and Accessories

Creating the Perfect Outdoor Space with Trex Decking and Accessories

Introduction
Creating a perfect outdoor space involves selecting the right decking materials and accessories. Trex offers a comprehensive range of decking options, including the Trex Transcend and Trex Enhance series, as well as various accessories to complete your outdoor design. This blog will guide you through the different decking collections and accessories available to help you create a beautiful and functional outdoor area.

Decking Collections
The Trex Transcend collection is renowned for its luxurious look and durability. With colors like Island Mist and Tiki Torch, it’s perfect for creating an upscale outdoor space. The Trex Transcend Earth Tones series, featuring Lava Rock and Gravel Path, offers a more natural and understated aesthetic. The Trex Enhance collection provides practical yet stylish options, including the Enhance Basics series with colors like Rope Swing and Tree House, and the Enhance Naturals series with hues such as Pebble Grey and Winchester Grey.

Brand Spotlight: Trex Decking - Zeeland Lumber & Supply

Railing and Accessories
Complete your deck with Trex’s range of railing options, including the Trex Signature Railing and Trex Transcend Railing. Enhance the functionality and style of your deck with Trex Outdoor Lighting, which provides illumination for evening use. For a polished look, consider adding Trex Fascia and Trex Pergola. The Trex Shadetree Canopy System offers sun protection, while Trex Spiral Stairs and Trex Latticeworks add unique design elements.

Outdoor Entertainment
Add recreational elements to your deck with Trex Cornhole and create a cozy ambiance with a vintage lantern or a fire pit. For additional lighting options, explore Trex Outdoor Lighting choices such as beach dune and clam shell.

Conclusion
Trex provides everything you need to create a perfect outdoor space, from stylish decking collections to functional accessories. Explore the variety of options available to design a deck that is both beautiful and practical, and enjoy your outdoor space to the fullest.