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Small wooden deck with an exotic boho decor

Updated on February 13, 2024

TRENDS

Backyard Deck Design: Best Materials, Colours, and Decor

Whether you want to update your deck or build a new one, the process always begins by exploring deck design features like the materials and decor. Get inspired with this guide that will fill you in on what you need to know before you begin. You’ll be all set to DIY like the pros.

Wooden two-level deck

Choose a Design and Layout According to Your Style

A new deck will completely transform the landscape of your backyard! You can match it to your house colour, choose deck furniture to go with your interior style, use dramatic lines to make an eye-catching layout, or invest in high-quality and versatile materials that combine the best of form and function.

It’s your outdoor oasis, so it should be designed exactly to your liking.

SHOP ALL DECKING

Compare Available Materials

For more information, take a look at the following table:
FEATURES
COMPOSITE
PRESSURE-TREATED LUMBER
CEDAR
CAPPED POLYMER
Price
$$
$
$
$$$
Maintenance
Requires periodic cleaning 
Annual stain and seal
Annual oil-based stain application
Requires periodic cleaning
Residential Warranty
Limited 25-year against fading, staining, material defects, and termite and rot damage
No
No
Limited 30-year against fading and staining, limited lifetime against material defects and termite and rot damage
Hidden Fastening Option
Yes 
Yes
Yes
Yes
Durability
★ ★ ★
★ ★
★ ★ ★
Mould and Mildew Resistance
★ ★ ☆
No
★ ★ ★
Stain Resistance
★ ★ ★
★ ★ ★
Scratch Resistance
★ ★
★ ★ ★
Colourfastness
★ ★ ★
★ ★ ★
Splinter-Free
★ ★ ★
No
No
★ ★ ★
Heat Dissipation
★ ★ ★
★ ★ ★
★ ★
FEATURES
COMPOSITE
PRESSURE-TREATED LUMBER
CEDAR
CAPPED POLYMER
Price
$$
$
$
$$$
Maintenance
Requires periodic cleaning 
Annual stain and seal
Annual oil-based stain application
Requires periodic cleaning
Residential Warranty
Limited 25-year against fading, staining, material defects, and termite and rot damage
No
No
Limited 30-year against fading and staining, limited lifetime against material defects and termite and rot damage
Hidden Fastening Option
Yes 
Yes
Yes
Yes
Durability
★ ★ ★
★ ★
★ ★ ★
Mould and Mildew Resistance
★ ★ ☆
No
★ ★ ★
Stain Resistance
★ ★ ★
★ ★ ★
Scratch Resistance
★ ★
★ ★ ★
Colourfastness
★ ★ ★
★ ★ ★
Splinter-Free
★ ★ ★
No
No
★ ★ ★
Heat Dissipation
★ ★ ★
★ ★ ★
★ ★
Close up on a light grey composite deck

How to Pick the Perfect Deck Colour

Your deck colour will depend in part on the chosen material. For example, composite decking has a variety of colour options, while wood can be stained or painted to almost any shade.

For a modern look, consider a darker shade of grey or brown. Soft shades of grey and silver are an excellent option for complementing most home exteriors. Wood tones and rustic textures are always a stylish choice as well, especially in earthy and adaptable shades of brown that can enhance the natural beauty of your home’s outdoor area.

SHOP EXTERIOR STAINS

Pro Tip

Remember that dark shades can heat up quickly in the sun, particularly when used with composite materials.
Conceal your backyard from neighbours and passers-by
Small patio with a modern-looking privacy screen

Use Lattice and Privacy Screens for Additional Comfort

Lattice and privacy screens act as design elements and windbreakers and can be used to hide property features like your thermo-pump. Lattice and privacy screens can even be accessorized with shelves, hooks, and planters, giving your outdoor space a modern appeal and a personalized touch.
SHOP LATTICE AND PRIVACY SCREENS
Leafy lattice

Start Designing the Deck of Your Dreams

With the help of our online deck design tool, you can bring to life a dream deck that’s perfect for your home and your lifestyle.
LAUNCH THE DECK DESIGNER

Let Us Install It for You!

Make sure you also visit your nearest RONA to learn about our deck installation services.

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