Outdoor-centric Danville prides itself on idyllic weather enabling an easeful indoor-outdoor way of living. For many families, the ideal conduit lies in an aesthetically stunning, meticulously constructed deck extending livable space outwards. In weighing decking materials like natural woods versus manufactured composites, concrete surfaces merit consideration given advantages like longevity, customization, and resilience.
Yet the notion of concrete decking also spur questions surrounding structural stability, pricing, traction, maintenance and overall livability. As experienced Danville deck builders fielding frequent homeowner inquiries, Bay Area Outdoor Living answers some of the most common concrete deck FAQs.
How durable and stable is concrete decking?
When properly mixed, reinforced and cured, concrete forms an incredibly robust, long-lasting surface for decking and outdoor structures. Its compressive strength exceeds 6,000 PSI and can readily withstand decades of intensive foot traffic, furniture loading, temperature shifts and precipitation exposure. Unlike wood or composites, concrete won’t splinter, warp or degrade from moisture and UV rays with appropriate protective sealants. And unlike pavers, its solid surface remains firmly settled without wobbling.
What factors influence cost for concrete decking?
Concrete pricing depends on square footage needs, complexity of formwork and designs, labor intensity, mix design enhancements and finishing options. Simpler designs using conventional concrete and basic broom or stamped finishes are more affordable. Adding specialized mix admixtures like glass fiber reinforcement, custom colors/stains, artistic finishes like acid-etching or carved patterns, decorative aggregates, lighting, and built-in planters increase costs accordingly.
How “green” and environmentally-friendly is concrete decking?
Concrete contains some recycled materials like fly ash and slag that would otherwise occupy landfills. And unlike wood, no trees are harvested. From a lifecycle standpoint, concrete’s exceptional longevity means fewer resources and emissions associated with replacements every 10-15 years like composites. Specifying mixes with higher percentages of substitutes further improves sustainability. Lastly, concrete’s thermal mass actually helps regulate temperatures, reducing home cooling/heating demands versus non-insulating surfaces.
What special considerations influence concrete decking design?
Concrete’s extreme durability enables immense flexibility in layout, shape and form. Yet its substantial weight demands strong underlying support, with deeper footings and more robust framing than wood decking. Predicting crack development also factors prominently to incorporate anticipated control joints strategically within visual patterns and finishes. And unlike sanding wood, heavy modifications prove difficult after concrete sets, making accurate initial constructability, grading and measurement paramount.
How does concrete decking impact livability and home resale value?
By expanding outdoor living space beautifully, concrete decks enhance homeowners’ quality of life through more opportunities to entertain, reconnect with nature and boost health via activity. Interesting patterns, built-ins and artistic finishes also lend unique personality reflecting the homeowners’ sensibilities. For prospective buyers, these bespoke concrete designs communicate pride of ownership, dramatically improving curb appeal and perceived home value compared to basic wood decks.
What routine maintenance does concrete decking require?
Concrete possesses exceptional durability, but does need periodic sealing to prevent moisture intrusion, staining and freeze-thaw damage in certain climates. Typical schedule entails thorough cleaning and re-application of penetrating sealers every 3-5 years. Higher traffic areas may necessitate more frequent re-coating. Periodic inspection for cracks with appropriate repairs also helps prevent costlier structural issues long-term. Compared to the continual upkeep wood and composites demand, concrete proves relatively low-maintenance.
Should homeowners consider concrete decking surfaces?
For Danville families seeking to expand their living area outward with a surface that can handle lively everyday use while making an elegant design statement, concrete warrants consideration. Its structural integrity, extreme durability, nearly limitless customization range, and relatively easy upkeep check all the boxes for crafting an alfresco haven perfect for entertaining groups or quiet solo relaxation amid nature’s splendor. Reach out to experienced deck builder Bay Area Outdoor Living today to discuss if a concrete deck matches your lifestyle vision.
