Lumber and Trex Market Update: 1/29/2022
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Landscaping Under a Deck: Our 3 Options After the Build

Backyard composite deck with built in hot tub

Your deck is finally complete. You’re ready to pull out the grill and patio set to spend the summer out in the sun! 

But not so fast…

There’s still one more step for us to complete. It’s an often forgotten space that easily gets cluttered with garden tools and miscellaneous items: underneath your deck.

While usually an afterthought, it’s arguably just as important as the deck itself. And how we approach landscaping under a deck will prevent a few problems we’re going to discuss and give the entire area a clean and polished look. 

Here are 3 ways we approach landscaping under a deck.

1. Weed Barrier & Pea Gravel 

We install a premium weed barrier and pea gravel under most every deck we build (clients may opt out of this and save some money). This is also what we recommend to homeowners in most cases. But trust us, you’ll want to buy the highest-quality weed barrier you can find, not the big box brand. 

The combination of weed barrier and pea gravel will:

  • Help slow down the growth of grass and weeds and hinder them from spreading under your deck.
  • Allow adequate drainage to help prevent water from rotting deck posts.
  • Discourage animals from building their home under your deck. They typically don’t like burrowing or nesting on top of stones.

But keep in mind that weed barrier and stone will only slow down grass and weeds and won’t prevent them entirely. The forces of nature are against us in some situations.

For example, grass spreads by rhizomes underground and can sprout up even through the toughest of landscape fabrics. However, using edging could be helpful in these scenarios. But it could also be as simple as a plant seed blowing in the wind and landing on the gravel. Before long, it can start to grow.

PRO TIP: Stone Size

It’s standard to install stones in an inch to 2-inch thick layer. But some condo associations will require 3 or 4 inches, which we can easily accommodate. Make sure to check for any requirements if you aren’t sure. 

2. Upgrade Your Gravel

While you won’t go wrong using pea gravel to landscape under your deck, we’ve got a few upgrades for you to consider if you’d like to up the visual appeal.

Egg Rock

Egg rock for under deck

Approx. $200 Upgrade

Egg rock is a smooth stone similar to pea gravel in that they’re both considered river rock. But egg rock will be larger on average, about 1-2 inches in size, compared to pea gravel at 1/8-3/8 inches. Although egg rock costs more than pea gravel, it generally takes less of it to cover an area because they’re larger stones.

Crushed Marble

Crushed marble for under deck

Approx. $1,000 Upgrade

Crushed marble is considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing stones to use in your landscaping. You’ll typically see white marble that’s crushed into the size of large gravel, but you can also find it in a variety of light earthy colors.

3. Leave the Space for a Patio

A patio is an excellent choice for entertaining and using your yard to its fullest potential. If you have a second-story deck and are considering installing one, we can leave the landscape under your deck how it is. 

PRO TIP: Patio & Deck Design

Design your patio and deck at the same time, even if you wait before building the patio. That way, you can plan and designate areas for specific purposes (grilling area, dining area, lounge, etc.) and have everything flow together. Trex even offers spiral stairs that are perfect for deck and patio combinations.

What About Edging?

We understand the appeal of edging around your deck, especially if you already have it in other areas around your yard. However, we always leave the edge natural because of its low maintenance appeal, and most of our clients prefer the anesthetics of it. But, we wrote an entire post on lawn edging ideas if it’s something you’re interested in doing. 

Conclusion on Landscaping Under a Deck

Installing weed barrier and stone under your deck is our standard. And whether you stick with pea gravel or upgrade to egg rock or crushed marble, it can help make your yard easier to maintain and look its best. 

Lets Start Building

Are you ready for a new deck? We’d love to chat!

At Custom Deck Creations, we help clients build their dream decks across Southeast Michigan. We’ll work with you on a deck that meets your vision, is practical for your needs, and stays within your budget. And of course, we’ll discuss how you’d like to landscape under your deck. Feel free to check out some of our most recent builds or get in touch for a free, over-the-phone estimate. 

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About Custom Deck Creations

From design to installation, Custom Deck Creations combines beautiful decks with fair pricing and unparalleled customer service. Our designs stand out, while our install processes exceeds expectations. We are a certified TrexPro Platinum builder. Custom Deck Creations is located in and serves Southeast Michigan. 

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Lumber and Trex Market Costs Update

Last Updated: 1/29/2022
Custom Deck Creations

A brief look into the current and expected inflation

Quick Summary

Lumber rose +28% locally from November 2021 to January 2022, and is expected for another significant double-digit increase impacting us in June 2022. We’re also anticipating a cost increase  from Trex around that  same time frame. Depending on size and material selection, decks are anticipated to increase in cost an average of $2,000 to $4,000 come June 2022. Custom Deck Creations is currently scheduling projects for April/May, before we feel these cost increases. Schedule a quote with us today to lock in today’s costs.

For a more detailed look into the market, please continue reading:

Lumber

The lumber market continues to see pressure on the supply side. Canadian truck drivers are protesting COVID vaccine mandates, threatening to disrupt deliveries in Canada and possibly into the US. Fuel prices are also increasing. Overall demand for Southern Yellow Pine (pressure treated lumber used here in MI) remains steady. Mills are not sitting on a lot of inventory. Lead times from mills to dealers are getting extended.

Pressure treated lumber costs increased locally +28% from November 2021 to January 2022.

Lumber is expected to increase another ~+40% in June 2022. 

Custom Deck Creations is currently scheduling projects for April & May 2022, before we’re impacted by these increased costs.

Trex

Data from Trex distributors nationwide are seeing a steady growth in purchases even through winter.

Trex continues to see huge demand increases nationwide. 

Our Interpretation

Lumber will continue to rise in price throughout 2022. We don’t believe we’ll see pre-2022 lumber pricing any time soon.

In 2021 Trex put out 4 separate approximately +10% price increases. We believe more are to be expected in 2022. We do not expect Trex to ever lower their pricing.

No Inflationary Clause

Custom Deck Creations does not have an inflationary clause. Lock in today’s lumber and Trex costs with a signed agreement which puts you on our schedule. We will not charge you more even if our costs go up.

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