Table of Contents
Heading into 2019, the composite decking and railing market continues to thrive. The segment is growing approximately 5% per year as decks remain a very popular investment for homeowners. A well-designed outdoor space not only enhances a lifestyle, it also adds value to the home and stays current much longer than some other home improvement projects.
The healthy state of composite decking and deck railing makes it especially important for lumber and building materials dealers to stay up on industry trends and opportunities. Following are five 2019 deck trends that lumberyards and dealers should consider as they set stocking strategies for the new deck-building season.
1. Deck Shade Solutions
The over-arching goal for every homeowner’s outdoor living area is to maximize time and enjoyment outdoors. With this in mind, more contractors are working with clients to develop shade solutions that provide cover from the sun along with privacy. Two products getting more use in sun-shielding and privacy applications are lattice and 4-inch decking.
Most commonly utilized as deck skirting, UV-stabilized lattice is a versatile product that can also be used as deck privacy screens that form shaded areas in pergolas or gazebos. Composite deck boards in a 4-inch width offer another visually appealing way to deliver homeowners relief from direct sunlight or privacy if the deck is next to a neighbor.
2. Tastefully Bold Colors
Published reports from the interior design industry indicate that colors such as rich cappuccino, chocolate, and chili pepper will take hold in 2019. Expect bolder colors to also make their way into outdoor living spaces in the year ahead.
Look for deck builders and their clients to show increased interest in deck board color choice options such as red browns, earthy shades of clays, caramels, and mushroom tones. Picture framing boards, textured embossing, unique variegation and fresh railing hues will offer attractive options to contrast these bold colors.
3. Non-Traditional Spaces
Homeowners want the benefits of an outdoor oasis— even if they live in an area with minimal space or do not have a standard backyard. As a result, more contractors are building decks in non-traditional spaces.
Rooftop decks and freestanding decks are becoming more prevalent in residential settings. This trend is being driven in part by the arrival of innovative, moisture-resistant deck understructure systems.
4. Water Features
Beautiful water features, such as small ponds and fountains, are gaining popularity in outdoor spaces. More deck builders and homeowners are considering floating decks and pathways around these features to capitalize on the focal point.
Deck boards that offer minimal moisture absorption, enhanced traction, and a strong warranty that covers ground and water contact are ideal for decks in and around water.
5. Trend-Forward Lighting
Deck railing systems are moving toward a clean, sleek, modern appearance. Lighting options that complement decking and railing are going the same way.
To add ambience and safety to outdoor spaces, contractors are turning to low-voltage lighting with elegance and modern angles. Consider offering easy-to-install lighting accessories such as post cap, step light, deck sconce, and post sconce lights.
Entering the new year, both new construction and remodeling are driving significant growth in the composite decking and railing industry. Contractors and homeowners are beginning to research the designs, materials, colors, styles and features that will help them create personalized outdoor spaces next year.
By reviewing and reacting to these five trends, LBM dealers can help inform customers about new products and industry developments. From there, aligning with manufacturers that stand behind their on-trend products can set the stage for a robust 2019.
