What’s Hot in Outdoor Design and Construction
By Brendan Norton, Decking Manager, Mans Lumber
When it comes to outdoor living spaces, decking trends are constantly evolving. Homeowners today are looking for a mix of durability, aesthetics, and functionality in their decks; and builders are adapting to meet these demands.
As the weather continues to warm up, so does the demand for deck design, materials, and builders. If you’re considering building a new deck or replacing an existing deck, the time to get started is now, so you don’t find yourself and your project at the end of a busy line!
Here are some of the trends we are seeing in the last couple of years, and what you can perhaps look forward to as you plan your decking project for spring and summer 2025.
1. Composite Decking Continues to Dominate
The debate between composite and wood decking is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Composite decking has all but taken over the market, particularly in regions where weather and maintenance are key concerns. While wood was once the standard choice, the affordability of composite options has made them a no-brainer for the vast majority of homeowners
“Composites now come in a wide range of price points, some of which are comparable to wood,” says Hollie Waisanen, Operations Manager at RN Construction
Factor in the long-term maintenance savings, and it’s easy to see why homeowners are making the switch. No more staining or sealing every few years, and no repairing and replacing weather-worn wood.
2. The Rise of Picture Framing and Dark Trim
Today’s homeowners are mixing and matching hues to create visually striking outdoor spaces. “We’re seeing a lot more contrast in deck designs,” says Waisanen. “For example, people are choosing gray decking with brown trim, or adding a dark perimeter around the steps to make them more visible.”
One of the most noticeable aesthetic trends in decking is the use of contrasting border colors, often referred to as “picture framing.” This technique—where the perimeter of the deck features a different color than the main decking—has been a popular design choice for years, but it seems to be gaining even greater traction recently.
While some homeowners still prefer a monochromatic look, the demand for contrasting trim is holding strong. In particular, the use of black picture framing is becoming more common. “We’re seeing more manufacturers introduce darker trim options, and homeowners are responding well,” Waisanen notes. “Some brands already offer black picture frame boards, and we could see others following suit in the near future.”
3. Cable and Aluminum Railings for Better Sightlines
Cable railing has surged in popularity, especially for decks on homes that offer scenic views. These thin, tensioned cables replace traditional bulky railing systems, creating a sleek, modern look with minimal sight obstruction.
“Cable railings give a high-visibility, streamlined aesthetic,” Waisanen explains. “They’re particularly popular for homes near water or with a scenic backyard. They let homeowners enjoy the view without a visual barrier.”
Similarly, powder-coated aluminum railings are overtaking vinyl and composite railings. A decade ago, most railings were fiberglass or vinyl, but today, aluminum is dominating the market. It’s sleek, low-maintenance, and pairs well with contemporary deck designs.
4. Maximizing Space with Under-Deck Drainage Systems
As homeowners look for ways to optimize their outdoor living space, under-deck drainage systems are gaining traction. These systems allow for dry, usable space underneath second-story decks—perfect for patios, hot tubs, or outdoor kitchens.
Essentially, it’s like adding a covered outdoor room. By installing a water drainage system, homeowners can keep the space underneath their deck dry and usable year-round. Products like Trex RainEscape and TimberTech DrySpace are leading the way in this innovation, offering effective solutions for homeowners who want to make the most of their outdoor areas underneath decks.
5. Wrapping Deck Posts for a Finished Look
Another emerging trend is wrapping deck support posts to create a more polished appearance—especially for those utilizing the space as an additional outdoor living room, as noted above. Instead of leaving raw wood or treated lumber exposed, builders are using PVC or composite fascia boards to encase posts—often in black to match the popular dark trim trend Waisanen notes above.
The Future of Decking Has Already Begun!
Decking trends continue to evolve, but one thing remains constant: homeowners want beautiful, low-maintenance, and functional outdoor spaces. Whether it’s the shift toward composite materials, the rise of sleek railings, exploring bold color options, or the push for better space utilization, the latest trends reflect a growing emphasis on both aesthetics and practicality.
No matter the trend, one thing is clear—today’s decks are more than just a place to relax. They’re an extension of the home, designed for both style and long-term enjoyment. Whether you’re replacing an aging deck or building a new one, these trends offer a great starting point for designing a stylish, functional outdoor space.
But that starting point should be today! If you have plans for outdoor events this season and are looking forward to entertaining outdoors, begin the pre-planning process now and reach out to the MANS decking team
