Thinking About Decks? Think About Curves

It was just a matter of time before decks became round instead of square or rectangular. Think about it: trees are round, stones are round, fruits and vegetables are round, why not decks? Curves in decks are trending now, and happy we are to see it. In an age in which cookie-cutter houses, cars, TVs and iPods proliferate, it’s refreshing to see homeowners thinking outside the (square) box. There are dozens of benefits to curved decks, not the least being aesthetic. If you are thinking about adding a deck to your landscape a cured option could be right for you.

Are There Really Advantages to Curved Decks?

Sure. Have you ever lived on a property with rounded features like hillocks or a property boundary that wasn’t quite square but curved to some degree? Fitting a square peg in such a round(ish) hole isn’t easy, is it? Up to now, homeowners in such circumstances had to decrease the size of their dreams to fit the reality of their property. Some of the benefits of curved decks include:

• There’s a flow to the view from a curved deck that homeowners won’t find on a square one. The view isn’t choppy or blocked by a square expanse of wood
• People gather in circles. Circles of talking people are more intimate than otherwise. They gather around the water cooler and around the grill at a cook-out. A fire pit on the curved deck would be a terrific place for guests to gather
• Many homeowners showcase an important feature by building something around it. Picture a swimming pool or a hot tub or spa surrounded by a curving expanse of wood on which to dry off in the sun
• Contrast is important. A rounded area attached to a square one is eye-catching and pleasing to the senses
• Last, but not least, any deck raises the square footage of a house, thus increasing its resale value. Imagine the uptick in resale value with a curving deck

How is the Wood Bent?

It is entirely easier to draw an idea for the rounded deck on paper than it is to actually build it. Planning is the keyword here. If the professional builder is using real hardwood, the process involves heating the wood, making tiny cuts in the wood, using joists and cantilevering the whole thing. It is much easier using engineered wood, because it responds better to heating. Synthetic and composite woods comprise reclaimed wood in addition to recycled polyethylene. These respond to heat and bending much better.

While the wood is malleable, it can be bent into any shape the homeowner wants. The boards will retain their shape for good. Be aware, though, that this process takes time. Most builders can only process perhaps six to ten boards per day. Figure on the process taking longer when the builder uses real hardwood boards.

Homeowners of upscale homes want a deck bespeaking their lifestyle and good taste. We will help you plan a wonderful curved deck on your home, so please contact us for more information.