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Composite vs. Wood Decks: Pros and Cons
Composite vs. Wood Decks: Pros and Cons
So, you’ve decided to add a deck to your home — a cozy space for summer barbecues, family gatherings, and relaxing evenings under the stars. But before you dive into your deck construction project, you need to make an important decision: wood or composite? Both materials have unique qualities and distinct pros and cons; understanding their differences is essential in choosing the perfect decking material options for your outdoor space.

Start Designing Your Deck Now
A deck extends your living space from inside to the outside. Whether it’s for having a party or some quiet relaxing family time, the varieties of decking – from wood to composite - can make your outdoor space as elaborate or simple as you please. Yes, the decking season starts in Spring, but now is the time to think about deck design and ordering so it can be enjoyed from the Spring well into the Fall. Each decking company has its own colors, some have their own recommended fasteners, some let you mix colors and some let you be a little more creative with curves, stairs and inlaid designs. Now is the time to let a decking professional at Marling Lumber and HomeWorks begin your design and line up an installer, so you can start enjoying your outdoor space as soon as the weather cooperates.

Beware of Improvement in Stages
Home improvement in stages may not be what you want. If you're thinking about breaking your next home improvement into stages, remember: colors and styles change for all home products, have a plan if an item becomes discontinued, be aware of trends in cabinet colors and styles, and remember, as wood ages, it develops a patina, so add those upper cabinets sooner rather than later.

Trends in Deck Design | Styles, Colors, & Accessories
The decking professionals at Marling Lumber and HomeWorks can help with your deck designs and there is a huge outdoor display at our Madison location and plenty of samples to see at our Janesville location. Marling Lumber and HomeWorks' decking lines include Azek Decking, Deckorators, Regal Rail, TimberTech, and Trex.

6 Signs that It's Time for a New Deck
There really is no bad time to think about a new deck. If the snow is flying – you can start getting a new deck designed and order for spring installation. If it’s the Fall, you can check to see if your old deck is showing signs of wear and start looking at options.

Check Your Deck - May is Deck Safety Month | Regal Rail
Before you start spending a lot of time outside on the deck with family and friends, there are a number of things you should check to make sure everyone stays safe and has a good time. Check out Marling decking lines including Regal Rail and more.

May Is Deck Safety Month
May Is Deck Safety Month
Deck Safety Month is the perfect time to check and be sure your deck is in tip-top shape for the upcoming deck season.

How to Keep Kids and Pets Safe on Your Deck
How to Keep Kids and Pets Safe on Your Deck
Kids only belong on decks with adult supervision, so lock the door that leads out – and make sure the lock is higher than a small child can reach. Keep an eye on pets too who need supervision as well!

Decking Decisions
Decking Decisions
If you are dreaming of spending summer and fall on a great deck – there are a few things to consider before you launch yourself into the realm of outdoor living and entertaining.Where is the deck going? Are you ready for a wood deck? What kind of wood are you considering? Is a more expensive vinyl deck something you want? At Marling Lumber and HomeWorks, we can answer all these questions and more.

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