Expert Tips & Trends for Decks, Patios, Sheds, and Siding
Shade, Style, Shelter: What a Patio Cover Adds to Your Home PNW
In the ever-changing weather of the Pacific Northwest, a patio cover is more than a luxury—it’s a smart home improvement investment. Offering essential shade during sunny days and much-needed shelter from frequent rain, a well-designed patio cover extends your outdoor living space year-round. Whether you’re hosting summer BBQs or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee on a misty morning, a patio cover creates a comfortable, usable space no matter the forecast. With a variety of materials and styles available, it’s easy to find a solution that enhances both the function and beauty of your backyard.
Beyond protection from the elements, a patio cover also adds lasting style and value to your home. In the PNW, where natural beauty meets modern design, choosing the right cover can elevate your exterior aesthetic while increasing your home’s resale appeal. From wood pergolas to aluminum covers to even a screened in patio, each option offers unique benefits for your lifestyle. If you’re looking to boost curb appeal, protect your patio furniture, and make the most of your outdoor space, investing in a custom patio cover in the Pacific Northwest is a decision that pays off in comfort and style.
Composite & PVC Decking: A Smarter Alternative to Wood
When it comes to building a deck that stands the test of time, composite and PVC decking offer major advantages over traditional wood options like cedar and pressure-treated lumber. While cedar has a natural beauty and is more budget-friendly, both require regular maintenance — staining, sealing, and repairs — to avoid splintering, rot, and warping. Over time, those costs and the labor involved can really add up.
Composite decking, made from a blend of recycled plastic and wood fibers, delivers the warm appearance of real wood with far less upkeep. PVC decking, made entirely of synthetic material, is even more resistant to moisture, mold, and insects — making it ideal for wet climates and poolside decks. Both options are highly durable, fade-resistant, and backed by long warranties, making them a great investment for homeowners who want a beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor space that lasts for decades.
If you’re tired of constant deck maintenance or want to avoid it altogether, upgrading to composite or PVC decking is a smart move. You’ll enjoy more time relaxing on your deck — and less time working on it.
The Most Durable Types of Siding In Washington State
When it comes to durable, long-lasting siding options, James Hardie fiber cement and LP SmartSide engineered wood stand out as two of the best choices on the market. Both are designed to withstand harsh weather, resist damage, and enhance curb appeal, but they do so with slightly different strengths.
James Hardie siding is made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, giving it exceptional resistance to fire, moisture, and pests. It doesn’t warp, rot, or attract insects the way natural wood can. Its baked-on ColorPlus® finish also resists fading, keeping homes looking fresh for decades with minimal maintenance. Hardie’s products are also specifically engineered for different climates—so whether you live in a wet, coastal area or a region with extreme temperature swings, there’s a formulation built to last in your environment.
LP SmartSide, on the other hand, combines the look of real wood with advanced protection technology. Made from engineered wood treated with LP’s SmartGuard® process, it’s designed to resist moisture, decay, and termites. It’s lighter and easier to install than fiber cement, which can lower labor costs and speed up projects. SmartSide’s smooth or cedar-textured finishes also give homes a clean, upscale appearance with natural warmth.
Overall, both James Hardie and LP SmartSide offer top-tier durability, beauty, and long-term value. Homeowners who want a low-maintenance, weather-resistant siding that boosts both protection and curb appeal can’t go wrong with either—Hardie excels in fire and weather resistance, while SmartSide offers strength, flexibility, and easier installation. Together, they represent the best of what modern siding technology has to offer.
