The backyard deck is experiencing a remarkable resurgence. As homeowners seek to create havens for relaxation and connection with the outdoors, the demand for decking services is skyrocketing. This newfound appreciation for outdoor living spaces translates to exciting opportunities for deck contractors. But what exactly are homeowners looking for, and how can you capitalize on these trends to thrive in this booming market?
The Rise of Outdoor Living: A Shift in Focus
The Wall Street Journal reports a significant surge in deck building and expansion projects, mirroring the growing desire for dedicated outdoor entertaining and relaxation areas. Decks offer a compelling solution, extending usable living space without the hefty price tag of a home addition. Additionally, high-quality decks boast a strong return on investment (ROI), making them an attractive proposition for homeowners.
Industry statistics further solidify this trend. The American Institute of Architects confirms a substantial 69% increase in demand for decking projects. Data from ReDo, a popular contractor management platform, aligns with this growth. They report that 33% of decking service requests translate into immediate hiring decisions, with a staggering 83% of those projects focusing on deck installation or replacement. Furthermore, ReDo’s data reveals a national trend with June and May reigning supreme as the most popular months for deck installations, reflecting homeowner desires to maximize enjoyment during the warmer months.
Beyond Functionality: Design Trends Shaping the Modern Deck
While functionality remains essential, homeowners are increasingly prioritizing aesthetics and design elements. Here’s a closer look at some key design trends that are shaping the modern deck:
- Modern Design Takes Center Stage: Rustic charm is giving way to contemporary aesthetics. Think clean lines, sleek finishes, and cooler color palettes that complement modern architecture. Cable railings are a popular choice, offering unobstructed views and a touch of contemporary elegance.
- Year-Round Comfort is King: Homeowners are extending their deck’s usability by incorporating features that allow them to enjoy the outdoors in any season. Ceiling fans provide a welcome respite on sweltering summer days, while modern heaters offer warmth during cooler weather. These features come in various styles and functionalities, ensuring both comfort and aesthetic appeal.
- A Splash of Personality: Neutral tones remain a safe bet, but homeowners are increasingly opting for pops of color to personalize their decks. Colored stains, painted accents, or vibrant throw pillows add a touch of personality and vibrancy to the outdoor space.
- Setting the Mood with Lighting: Simple porch lights are a thing of the past. Today’s homeowners crave integrated lighting solutions that elevate the ambiance and create a specific mood for their outdoor living area. String lights, recessed lighting, and strategically placed sconces can completely transform the atmosphere of a deck at night.
- The Outdoor Entertainment Zone: Decks are becoming extensions of the living room, complete with entertainment options. Weatherproof televisions are a popular addition, perfect for movie nights, game days, or simply enjoying outdoor entertainment with friends and family.
The Future of Decking: A Sustainable Vision
The future of decking is bright! As predicted by the Freedonia Group, the decking industry is expected to experience a steady 1.8% annual growth through 2024. This optimistic outlook is fueled by several key factors:
- Sustainability in the Spotlight: Wood-plastic composite (WPC) decks are gaining significant traction due to their eco-friendly nature. WPC decks offer the warmth and beauty of wood with the durability and low-maintenance requirements of plastic, aligning perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable building practices.
- Customization Reigns Supreme: Homeowners are increasingly looking for decks that seamlessly integrate with their lifestyle and available space. Even homeowners with limited backyards recognize the potential of decks to significantly expand their usable outdoor square footage. Innovative design solutions like multi-level decks and clever use of built-in storage can maximize functionality in even the most compact spaces.
Tips for Deck Contractors to Thrive in the Booming Market
Understanding these trends is just the first step. Here are some actionable tips to help deck contractors capitalize on the booming decking market:
- Stay Ahead of the Curve: Actively research local and national trends to ensure you cater to your customers’ evolving needs and preferences. Consider attending industry trade shows, subscribing to relevant publications, and networking with fellow contractors to stay informed.
- Prioritize Customer Service: Building trust is paramount for securing repeat business and referrals. Provide top-notch customer service by being responsive, transparent, and exceeding expectations throughout the entire project.
- Safety First, always: Deck installation involves heavy machinery and potential fall hazards. Ensure your team has all the necessary safety certifications and follows industry-standard safety protocols to protect themselves and your clients.
Communication is Key: Open and transparent communication with your clients is essential.
