Building covered decks is a significant investment that adds value to your home and enhances your outdoor living space. But with a plethora of materials on the market, how do you choose the best one for your covered deck?
Well, it all depends on the style you’re going for, your budget, and your preference for quality. This article will explain two different styles that we, as professionals, love implementing and will help you make an informed decision on the best materials to use for covered decks.
The Premium Style: Rough Cedar and Engineered Microlam
Our more premium version involves the use of rough cedar for the posts and engineered microlam for the framing. This combination provides a durable, aesthetically pleasing structure that’s guaranteed to stand the test of time.
Crafting an Inviting Ceiling
What adds a special touch to the premium style is the 2×6 tongue and groove ceiling. This gives the deck an attractive, finished appearance, reminiscent of the cozy Colorado look.
This design is particularly beloved as it exposes the rafters, contributing to the rustic charm that many homeowners adore. However, as you may expect, this premium look comes with a higher price point.
Economical Option: Treated Timbers and Siding
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly approach without sacrificing too much of the quality, then the use of treated timbers for the posts and framing is your best bet. This option ensures the durability of your deck and offers substantial savings compared to the premium style.
Opting for Siding Underneath
In this budget-friendly model, we also suggest incorporating siding underneath your deck to cover the joists. This way, you maintain an aesthetically pleasing look without the need for a tongue and groove ceiling. This practical solution can lower your overall costs while still ensuring a sturdy, attractive deck.
Deciding Between the Two: Price Points and Popularity
Ultimately, the best materials to use for covered decks are largely dependent on your budget and the style you’re aiming to achieve. For our premium style, with the exposed rafter look crafted out of cedar, you should budget between $50,000 to $100,000. This range considers factors like the size of the area and the complexity of tying into the existing roof line.
On the other hand, the lower-cost option could save you around $10,000. This choice involves a more conventional approach, utilizing siding underneath and painted surfaces for a finished look. While the savings are significant, remember that the style is somewhat simpler and doesn’t feature the exposed rafter look.
Final Thoughts: Matching Your Style with Your Budget
Building a covered deck is an excellent way to extend your living space and enjoy the outdoors regardless of the weather. The choice between using premium materials such as rough cedar and engineered microlam, or opting for the more economical treated timbers and siding, will ultimately depend on your desired look and budget.
Both options have their own unique appeal, with the premium style offering a high-end, rustic charm, and the economical version delivering sturdy functionality at a lower cost. Ready to build your dream deck? Contact us for expert guidance on choosing the best materials for your covered deck and creating an outdoor space that complements your home and lifestyle.
