A patio or back deck can be the perfect outdoor extension of your log home and the best way to enjoy natural surroundings: Fresh air and breezes. Birdsong. The rustling of critters in woods, or a brook babbling.
A deck or a patio is an enchanting space for outdoor dinners, morning coffee, easy conversations, practicing yoga or enjoying solitude. With modern, attractive furniture resistant to weather and sun, the deck or patio can evolve into a true outdoor room, with many of the same comforts and amenities as indoor spaces.
It can be screened in, opened, covered with a roof or topped with a pergola that cools the space with shade while bathing you in dappled sunlight.
It’s best to plan for a deck from the start – how it would extend your living space, and sit on the terrain – even if you’re not ready to build one. That will save money, time and effort when you’re ready to add the feature, and the deck will integrate more seamlessly into your home. Estemerwalt’s experts can help you choose among a wide array of decking materials and surfaces. Your selection depends on several factors, including budget, appearance, feel, maintenance requirements and desire for sustainability.
Composites have improved greatly over the years, and provide a low-maintenance, versatile option. They present the look of wood with a variety of hues, require no staining and resist scratching. For natural wood, cedar is a popular choice for its attractive appearance and ability to hold up to weather, while pressure-treated wood is a durable, long-lasting option as well.
High-end and exotic woods – think ipe or tigerwood – can create a deck people will talk about. For a sustainable option, consider redwood.
Those are not the only options. Vinyl and coated aluminum decking are among low-maintenance alternative materials available in many hues and styles.
And there are additional considerations to weigh: The deck or patio can be two-tiered or single, and equipped with a mega-sized, multi-functioning grill or a hot tub. A fire pit – or an even more impressive option, a dual fireplace with openings inside and out – extends the time you can enjoy your outdoor space into the cooler months. What better way to savor a crisp, chilly autumn evening than snugly gathered around a fire?
Talk to Estemerwalt’s design experts about your log home’s best locations for a deck or patio, as well as premium designs, and the right material, tailored to your needs. We can help you envision and create your outdoor space so it’s absolutely perfect.