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5 Easy Tips for Updating Your Cedar Deck   by Dave Nichols

Today's consumers may not be confident enough about the state of the economy to erect entirely new cedar decking. Washington and Oregon unemployment rates are still high, and residents may simply be unable to afford entirely new cedar decking. Alternatively, many Vancouver and Portland homeowners are too busy to dedicate an entire weekend to building a new deck.



Such residents are instead looking for easy, relatively quick ways to jazz up their decking situations. Fortunately, there are ways to improve your deck; Vancouver and Portland residents can easily do so without spending huge amounts of money or time. The following is a list of ways Washington and Oregon homeowners can update their cedar decking without breaking the bank or sucking up too much time.



1. Add post caps.



"The icing on the cake" is often seen as an extravagant treat, but the truth is that very few people will eat cake without frosting. Adding frosting makes any cake more appealing, and it doesn't usually take too much time to add this extra layer of sweetness. Similarly, deck post caps can add a finishing touch to the area around your decking. Washington and Oregon backyard decking is typically enclosed with railing, which helps create a sense of being in a private oasis.



As you choose the best post caps to compliment your home and cedar decking, keep in mind that there are many available styles of caps. Deck post toppers with copper or other metal accents may compliment Portland and Vancouver craftsman homes, for instance. Some even come in the form of solar-powered lighting, which can add some ambience to your deck. Match the shape and materials of your new post caps to your home's décor.



2. Add solar or LED lighting.



New lighting can make you more likely to spend time on your deck. Vancouver and Portland are both located above the 45th parallel, at such high latitudes that both cities see long, dark days in the winter. New lighting will make your cedar decking more attractive throughout the year.



As mentioned above, solar deck caps are one option for lighting the boundaries of your decking. Since they require no external wiring, solar deck caps are extremely easy to install. LED lights represent another wise lighting option for your cedar deck; Vancouver and Portland techies appreciate the fact that LED bulbs are long-lasting and highly efficient. LED lights may be aimed directly at the floor of your deck to keep visitors safe, or you may choose to accentuate striking landscaping with your new LED lights.



3. Add or change handrails.



Sometimes, a major life change requires you to update your cedar decking. Washington and Oregon, for instance, have many new parents who find they must erect handrails for their decking in order to prevent their small children from falling off the edges. Handrails are an excellent safety feature to add to your cedar decking.



In addition, handrails can compliment your home's surroundings. Changing out the standard wood handrails for a more customized option is one fairly inexpensive way to update a deck. For example, if you'd like to preserve the gorgeous view of Mt. St. Helens visible from your deck, transparent or wire handrails are good design options.



4. Build an outdoor cooking or gardening station.



Sometimes, cedar decking needs nothing more than a new piece of furniture to boost its appeal and utility. If you're passionate about gardening, a new station for potting plants will be sure to bring you to your deck more often. Alternatively, if you're the type who enjoys entertaining friends and family members on your deck, a new cooking station could be just the update your deck needs.



5. Add colorful potted plants, outdoor furniture and other accessories.



Does "plain Jane" describe your cedar decking? Washington homeowners who answer yes may find a trip to their favorite home décor store may be just the ticket. New outdoor furniture can add color and comfort to any decking area. Alternatively, a trip to the nursery can inspire you to add colorful new pots and lush flora to your deck.



Home improvements don't always have to be complicated or expensive in order to be effective. By adding charming deck caps, lighting, handrails, workstations and other accessories, you can transform your lackluster cedar decking area into an enchanting retreat for your family and friends.

About the Author

If you're thinking about building or updating a cedar deck, Vancouver local contractor, Rick's Custom Fencing & Decking has solutions. Visit their website, www.RicksFencing.com to find helpful tips, materials and service.
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