When deciding what materials to use when building the deck, patio or gazebo of your dreams, you might want to take some extra time to consider your future.

That’s the advice coming from experienced Cape Breton contractor Allan Keating, owner/operator of Keating Construction. Keating spends a lot of time at this time of year advising clients on ways to improve the exterior of their homes.

Decks and patios are among the most popular renovations, but much of deciding what to do may rely on the homeowner’s future plans.

“If you’re planning to remain in your home for a long time, do it right the first time,” says Keating. “Spend the extra money and get exactly what you want – it will end up saving you money in the long run.”

Keating has a concrete deck and patio area at his home. Surprisingly, concrete is becoming one of the trendiest building materials when it comes to decks and patios – but don’t expect to see dull, basement-foundation looking areas.

Today’s concrete comes in a variety of colours like tan and black and it can also be stamped, giving it a look of high quality tile or even cobblestones. Concrete decks/patios are often built on several levels and may even link to walkways on the property.

The best thing about concrete?

“It lasts,” says Keating.

Jennifer Hills of Home Depot Canada says customers are not just building decks but “are building an outdoor living space that is an extension of their home.”

Hills says often the female homeowner is the one making the final decision on materials, and because decks these days are being used for entertaining, the trend is towards bigger decks. She says trend is also towards materials that don’t require a lot of upkeep.

“Composite decking is becoming more and more popular, as people do not want to spend the time required to maintain a wood deck,” says Hills. “Composite materials come in a variety of colours, textures and materials to suit any design choice. The newest style of composite decking is commonly referred to as "cap stock." This innovative product has a composite core with a pvc outer layer, which makes it ultra-low maintenance. Two popular versions of this are Trex Transcends and Veranda High Performance.

More and more customers are going with composite decking that has a hidden fastener system. They prefer this look to putting a screw through the top of the board.”

Because these materials are often made from recycled materials, they would be considered an environmentally friendly way to improve your home.

If concrete is the most expensive, the traditional wood deck is the cheapest option. It’s also the option most likely to be replaced, if it’s not properly maintained. If you’re on a budget or you’re planning a move, it might be the best way to go. Use pressure treated lumber and if you do it right, you can even avoid the sight of nails everywhere.

Railings are an important safety feature for any deck, but some may not like how wood rails can block or spoil their views of their properties. Keating says glass railings are becoming more popular since they look great and offer an unspoiled view. However, they can be pricey, so they may be best for homeowners who are planning to remain in their homes for a long time. Hills says many customers are also using aluminum or a combination of aluminum and glass.

While the final materials and design of decks, patios and gazebos are up to the homeowner, doing it right can not only improve the look of your house, but it can also enhance your property’s value as well.