Designer Decking

Why Decks Are Hardscaping—And Why You’re Missing Out If You Ignore Them

By Angelique Robb, SYNKD Founder & CEO

Let’s settle this once and for all: decks are hardscaping. If your design/build projects overlook decking, you’re not just skipping an element—you’re doing your clients a disservice.

For too long, outdoor decking has been seen as the domain of carpenters and framers. But here’s the truth: Decking is a specialized part of outdoor living, rich with opportunity for creativity, functionality, and modern design. When thoughtfully incorporated, a deck can elevate an outdoor space—literally and figuratively.

From a practical standpoint, decks solve slope issues in a cost-effective way, often more economically than stone or masonry. But that doesn’t mean ditch the stone altogether. Retaining walls and stone features still play a vital role. Rather, think of decking as a complement, not a competitor. It offers a different texture, a new feeling, and a vertical plane you can play with.

And don’t worry—we’re not talking about the green-tinged pressure-treated pine of yesteryear. That ship has sailed. Today’s decking options are durable, beautiful, and virtually maintenance-free. Yes, they cost more—but their longevity and aesthetic return speak for themselves.

Let’s Talk Foundations:

Time to Level Up

Are you still using pressure-treated posts and framing for your decks? Well, it’s time to offer a higher quality solution—one that prioritizes longevity, safety, and design freedom.

Still cementing posts in the ground? Time to level up. Cemented-in posts eventually rot at the critical junction between ground and air, no matter how meticulously they’re installed. A better solution? Screw or helical piles, like those from GoliathTech, which offer long-term durability and stability without rot. With less disturbance to the environment, no cement or excavation, these piles work for all soil conditions—especially soft soils. These piles can also help you design and construct around mature trees with less damage to the root system—working in tandem with an arborist during installation will ensure a successful outcome.

Want to eliminate wood from the frame altogether? Steel offers better protection against moisture, insects, and fire—and provides a significantly higher safety rating than wood. New Castle Steel specializes in American-made steel frames, crafted from at least 25% recycled steel and 100% recyclable after use. With longer spans and stronger structural integrity, New Castle Steel makes it possible to design bold, multifunctional spaces without compromise.

Decking Boards: Smarter, Not Cheaper

Not all decking boards are created equal. Composite or man-made decking can be made from a variety of materials so dig deeper to understand the products that you are building with. The color, material makeup, and surface texture can all affect how much heat the boards will retain and how comfortable they will be for your clients to walk on. Thermally modified wood decking comes in a wide array of species and finishes, offering the warmth of wood with enhanced durability. Staying on top of the newest types of decking not only helps your clients, it also differentiates your business among your competitors. Some of the newer decking solutions include these brands: Millboard, Eva-Last, Robi Decking, Americana Decking, and Arbor Wood Co.

But don’t just trust the brochure—test it. Grab samples, put them out in the sun, test how hot they get, hose them down, and see how slippery they get. (Yes, we mean it. Dance on them.)

The Magic Is in the Accessories

A deck is more than just a platform—it’s a stage, and the accessories set the scene.

Railings That Disappear (or Steal the Show) Railings should connect, not isolate. Cable railings and glass panels keep the view open. For the high-tech crowd, check out IG railing systems (IG SWITCH) that can switch to opaque for privacy or light up in color for a nighttime wow factor.

Let There Be (Smart) Light

Decks are perfect canvases for integrated lighting—think LED-lit stairs, subtle glow paths, or even accent lighting under built-in benches.

Flexibility: Stone Inlays & Built-Ins

Want the elegance of stone but the elevation of decking? Use hybrid solutions like StoneDeks or MBrico to create stone inlays in deck surfaces.

Built-in seating is a no-brainer—but think beyond the bench. Use seating to navigate level changes, create amphitheater-style transitions, or define cozy corners.

Smart Pergolas: Comfort on Demand

Smart pergolas are a game-changer. With adjustable louvres, integrated lighting, audio, heating, and retractable screens (yes, mosquito-proof), you can create adaptable outdoor spaces for any weather.

Closed roof in the rain? Shade on a hot day? Privacy when you need it? Check, check, and check.

Secrets & Surprises

Decks can hide all sorts of treasures. Inspired by pros like Dr. Decks, hidden TVs, popup lounges, concealed BBQs, and even staircases that morph into ramps are no longer fantasy—they’re functional magic. Dr. Decks’ work showcases what’s possible when craftsmanship meets automation, and it’s nothing short of inspiring.

Final Thoughts: Deck Boldly

Decking is no longer an afterthought or “just a platform.” It’s a core component of modern outdoor living—and one that demands design intention and innovation.

At SYNKD, we believe in elevating the entire outdoor industry by encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration and pushing boundaries. So go ahead—design a better deck, try a new material, integrate smart tech, and explore the edges of what’s possible.

And when you do? Let us know. We’d love to feature your work in a future issue. n