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Your outdoor space is an extension of your home, and decking and fencing are great ways to enhance an outdoor living area’s aesthetic appeal while providing functionality and privacy. With the many advances in design and technology, new designs are emerging. As we are firmly now into the best of the weather, we look ahead to the second half of 2023 and explore some of the decking and fencing trends taking gardens by storm.
Why choose decking over patio?
Decking has been proven to increase a property’s value whilst offering more outdoor space, so can offer a positive return on investment. Decking is also a great option for gardens with uneven terrain because they are built above and over ground as opposed to directly on top of it, like patios. This way there is minimal ground preparation for decking compared to patio laying.
Whilst decking is commonly more expensive than patio, it is widely customisable to match design aesthetic goals and styles. It is worth bearing in mind that decking does have a shorter lifespan than traditional patio. However, with regular maintenance and care by sealing, cleaning and staining, your clients can ensure their decking will have the best chance at a long life.
Sustainability
Sustainability has been an essential trend in home design, and it’s no different in decking and fencing. Homeowners and business owners have a greater appreciation for sustainable materials, and this trend is set to continue. In 2023 we will see more traditional timber alternatives such as bamboo and composite decking materials that have fantastic durability and low maintenance.
Whilst timber may be a popular alternative due to its sustainability, UPVC decking such as the Triton Decking Range available at Edge Building Products is longer lasting than wooden alternatives, and is available in wood grain effects, offering a similar finish but with a better ROI.
Unique Decking Shapes
In recent years, the demand for unique decking shapes has increased significantly, going beyond the traditional square decks. This trend has resulted in homeowners seeking more imaginative and personalised outdoor living spaces. In 2023, curved and rounded shapes that blend into the surrounding landscape are on-trend, blending into the surrounding landscape and creating visually appealing and unique spaces. One reason for this shift is that square decking can often appear monotonous and uninspiring. Decking is being increasingly used in certain, specific areas of the garden, such as around a hot tub, fire pit or seating area. Homeowners can now customise and create their perfect outdoor living space, which not only makes their home stand out but also reflects their personality and preferences. Ultimately, the demand for unique decking shapes is here to stay, as more homeowners value customization and uniqueness in their homes.
At Edge Building Products we stock a variety of clips, screws, and corner profiles to assist with your decking design and installation.
Darker, natural finishes
This year we are seeing shades of grey dominating outdoor materials from fencing to decking. In recent years, homeowners have increasingly been opting for darker shades in their fencing and decking choices, and for good reason.
One of the most pressing reasons is their ability to mask dirt and grime more effectively than lighter options, which can become visibly dirty within a short period. Additionally, darker colours are known to absorb heat, meaning that they can keep the space warm and comfortable even on chilly nights, making them an excellent choice for those who love to entertain outdoors.
Lastly, darker shades have a timeless appeal, making them an evergreen staple of home design that homeowners can rely on for years to come. All in all, the widespread adoption of dark shades in fencing and decking reflects a growing appreciation for aesthetic appeal, durability, and practicality in outdoor spaces. Both our Triton and Composite decking ranges include darker styles to meet 2023 trends.
Fencing with a purpose:
Fencing’s primary aim was to define a space’s boundaries, but in 2023, it’s much more than that. A hot fencing trend for 2023 is privacy focused, panelled designs which shut out the outside world. More and more, people are looking for a way to escape the outside world, to switch off and relax. One of 2023’s fencing trends focuses on privacy, nobody wants neighbours leering over the fence when they’re trying to unwind!
In 2023, enclosing decking areas with railings and fencing is becoming popular. At Edge you can match your uPVC decking with uPVC fencing to create a stylish, cohesive private outdoor area, or choose contrasting decking and fencing colourways, we can offer both.
Edge Building Products stocks stylish and practical Liniar uPVC fencing. Available in 36 foils, Liniar uPVC fencing systems are easy to install, with no risk of splinters, and they are low maintenance because they don’t rot. The system is made from 84.75% recycled, 100% lead-free uPVC and so has the environment in mind. Liniar fencing systems are manufactured in the UK, keeping their carbon footprint low.
Smart decking
This year we expect to see an increase in smart decking that incorporates technology into our outdoor spaces. Smart decks, including lighting, motion sensors, and sound systems, offer an elevated outdoor experience, all whilst adding value to a property.
With the integration of sophisticated lighting options, motion sensors, and sound systems, homeowners can create a truly immersive outdoor experience. With smart lighting, homeowners can set the mood for their outdoor space to match their desired ambiance, while motion sensors can detect movement and turn lights on or off automatically, providing added safety and convenience.
The integration of sound systems allows homeowners to enjoy their favourite music or podcast while outside, making it the ultimate space for relaxation.
With the development of communication technology, we can now have decks that can withstand any extreme weather conditions, such as rain, making them safer and comfortable to use.
In conclusion, it is evident decking and fencing trends are ever evolving, and as we make our way through 2023, there’s a clear shift towards more environmentally responsible choices and innovative design ideas. Whether homeowners are looking to make a statement or add practicality, it’s necessary to stay up-to-date with the latest trends to create outdoor spaces for your clients that are reflective of our lifestyles.
Edge Building Products specialise in low maintenance, high quality building products for the trade. We stock a variety of trusted brands, and are focused on delivering the best customer service to the trade, through product expertise, low maintenance products and competitive prices.
Plus, we also provide free chocolate with every delivery to keep you going and put a smile on our tradesman’s faces! We offer next day delivery for orders placed before 3pm, and free hot drinks at our three trade counters in Horsham, Chichester, and Croydon.