Outside living is here to stay. According to a recent study, Americans spend more than $18.7 billion each year on outside home enhancement jobs. With more than 30 million yard decks currently integrated in the U.S., an excellent part is spent on decks and railing. If you're amongst the millions of property owners who will be replacing or developing a new deck, patio or outdoor patio this year, it's time to do some homework on the lots of brand-new products and design alternatives now available.

Don't choose wood just because you're familiar with it. New composite and vinyl materials are offered that will both look excellent and retain their initial quality for years to come. They never ever require painting, staining or sanding. Gray is no longer the only option in composite or vinyl decking. Improvements in color science have actually expanded the color options for decks. Boardwalk Composite Decking, for example, has a brand-new natural brown option that mixes beautifully with outdoor surroundings.

Look beyond standard balusters. While colonial-style balusters have a reflective film timeless appeal, other alternatives are also offered. New on the railing market are glass balusters. Glass balusters provide a clearer view, so to speak, of the environments beyond the deck, patio or patio. The glass baluster option for the EverNew Oxford style vinyl railing system is one of the most popular, as it works with any vinyl, composite or wood decking surface in both stair and flat applications. When choosing a railing system, make sure it abides by International Code Council requirements as well.

Ask an expert. Your local lumberyard, seller and professional should each recognize with the wide variety of new deck and railing products. Seek their opinions on what materials and designs would work best for your outdoor haven.