There are many different lighting styles for decks, each with their own unique functionality and appearance. Here are some popular deck lighting styles and tips for choosing the perfect deck lighting.

Common Types of Deck Lighting

Post Lights

Post lights are available in both single and multi-head options. Multi-head post lights illuminate a significantly larger area of space. Post lights are also wired directly to your deck, and they are popular for their durability and weatherproof qualities. They can also be added to the tops of the posts that hold up your deck as post mount lights.

Rail Lights

Rail lights are always a popular choice. Designed as LED strips, rail lights are relatively simple to install. Many under-rail lights have a life expectancy of almost 50,000 hours, so there is no need to worry about changing them often. They also provide even lighting for your outdoor space.

Stair and Step Lights

Stair and step lights, as their name implies, are designed to illuminate step areas, deck planks, and walkways. They can be installed directly onto your existing deck structure. They are great for larger decks, and you can choose between solar, LED, and battery-powered options. There are also motion-activated options available.

Wall Lights and Sconces

Wall lights and sconces are designed to provide ambient lighting for access points and doorways. They are available in both multi and single-bulb configurations, and they are typically controlled from a switch inside the house. There are also numerous finish options and styles available.

Under-tread Lights

Under-tread lighting, as its name implies, is a lighting system installed under the steps of the deck. Under-tread lighting systems are often composed of LED lights and many come with a motion-sensor option for convenience.

Tips for Choosing Deck Lights

Now that you have a better understanding of the different options available, keep these tips in mind as you shop.

Decide on Priorities

When choosing a lighting style, you will want to keep your needs and priorities in mind. If safety is your biggest concern, you may want to consider post or step lights for your deck. Step lights will make sure no one falls or injures themselves walking up and down the steps or walkway. For homeowners who want to add more style to their outdoor space, sconces and wall lights are a great option. If you enjoy entertaining often, a complete lighting system may be what you need. This can illuminate your entire deck area, and sometimes beyond.

Balance Style and Safety

You want your deck to look great, but safety is equally important. Luckily, there are many options for deck lights that are both practical and beautiful, so that you can choose the style that suits your home. Be sure to illuminate stairs and walkways, as well as areas where you may be grilling. By keeping safety in mind, you can ensure all of your gatherings and parties go off without a hitch.

Get a Custom Deck Lighting Solution

There is a wide range of outdoor deck lighting styles. The type you choose should enhance the beauty and appeal of your outdoor area. Work with Rabiot Excel Ventures to design a custom deck lighting plan.

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What Is the Average Lifespan of a Deck?

A wood deck lasts 10-15 years on average. Composite material decks have a 25-30 year warranty life. Lifespan varies depending on the kinds of environmental conditions, the quality of building materials, and the type of upkeep.

Often, decks can be repaired if the problems are minor wear issues. If you are uncertain about the safety of your deck, have a professional deck builder assess the condition of the structure.

Should I Repair or Replace My Deck?

While many issues can be effectively repaired, there are a few major problems that may indicate it’s time to replace your deck. Here are a few to consider.

Rotted Wood

Wood rot happens on all decks over time. In some cases, boards can be removed and replaced to repair small areas of damage. When the rot is substantial, and the entire deck or its support structures are affected, it’s time for replacement.

Extensive Surface Problems

Warped, cracked, or split boards are the first things you notice on a worn deck. If the issues are isolated to a few boards, repairing those spots makes the deck safe for use. Older decks with extensive damage over the surface are usually too far gone to repair.

Unstable or Loose Railings

Railings are an essential safety feature of any deck. Loose rails are easily fixed, but an unstable railing could indicate a larger problem with the deck that requires inspection.

Unsecured Ledger Boards

Ledger boards anchor a deck to your home. When you notice these pulling away, it’s a serious concern. Many decks that are rotted or in severe disrepair have unsecured ledger boards. If this occurs, the best course of action is to build a new deck.

Damaged Posts or Joists

The posts and joists that support your deck are vital to its stability. Once these boards sustain too much rot, damage or wear, it is impossible to secure the structure with spot repairs. Decks with this type of damage are at risk of collapse.

Extensive Mold or Water Damage

You can pressure wash surface mold and staining to maintain your deck’s appearance. However, when the mold has penetrated deep into the boards, the wood is weakened. Water damage will also cause wood to soften and rot. Treating decks helps prevent these problems, but time and deterioration eventually take a toll.

Termite Infestation

Termites do serious damage if they weaken posts, joists or ledger boards. Visible termite damage is a sign that a deck needs to be inspected and possibly replaced.

Is It Time to Replace Your Deck?

If your deck has extensive damage, don’t take the risk of keeping the old structure. A deck collapse can cause serious injuries. Hire a professional contractor to build a new deck so you can enjoy years of worry-free use.

Rabiot Excel Ventures specializes in building custom backyard decks that look beautiful and stand the test of time. We use the highest-quality materials and prioritize deck safety. Contact us to discuss your deck replacement project today.

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Cost and Resale Value

While decks are typically more expensive than patios, it’s worth noting that decks have a significantly higher resale value. If you eventually sell your home, the investment into the deck will be well worth it. However, if your budget is limited, a patio is a more affordable option.

Maintenance

Decks require more maintenance than patios, especially if they are made of wood. Wooden decks must be power washed, stained or painted, and sealed every few years. There are also composite decks that require less maintenance.

Note that all decks, regardless of materials and construction, should be inspected annually and cleaned with soap and water each year to maintain their safety and appearance.

Patios are a low-maintenance alternative to decks since they are typically made of concrete or stone. However, they are prone to cracks and stains. You will need to address these issues as they come up, but the upkeep is usually less expensive for patios.

Construction Requirements

Decks have stricter construction requirements. Many local governments require construction permits to build a deck, which may involve paying fees and getting periodic deck inspections. Patios typically require a zoning permit, which is less invasive.

Some townships may require inspections for the excavations for patio work, but this is not very common. These townships want to confirm that the space abides by property stand-offs. Generally you can build up to 500 square feet without an engineer’s review, but since a deck allows water to pass through its surface, this is not a concern at all.

Schedule a Building Consultation

Atmosphere

Decks and patios can both provide a great atmosphere for relaxing and entertaining. It really depends on your preferences. Raised decks can give you a stunning view. Patios or ground-level decks offer more privacy, especially when you create the right landscaping.

Patios do not necessarily need to be built at ground level. Some homeowners opt to install a raised patio, perhaps elevated 4 feet or so, but this may not always be feasible.

You can also add other hardscapes to a deck or patio to enhance the outdoor living experience. For example, you can build a fire pit on a patio to help you stay warm on chilly nights. Or, install an outdoor kitchen to make entertaining even more convenient.

Lifespan

If decks and patios are properly constructed and maintained they have a similar lifespan. Careful selection of materials for decks could create a space that will last over 30 years. Many paver patios will experience shifts from freeze thaw cycles within that time frame.

There are various differences between patios and decks. If you need help deciding, or you’re ready to get started on a project, contact Rabiot Excel Ventures . Our expert contractors will help you design the outdoor living space of your dreams!

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Before starting a remodeling project, however, you need to consider how much it will cost and how you will finance the renovation. Fortunately, there are a number of financing options available, regardless of your budget.

How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Home?

According to industry averages, a home renovation could cost $10 to $60 per square foot, with more extensive work costing upwards of $150 a square foot. If you were to renovate an entire 2,500 square foot house, you could be looking at a minimum of $15,000.

Things like the size of the room, the types of materials selected, any underlying problems, and the extent of the work are significant factors. Cabinetry, custom work, electrical or plumbing services, and appliances will also be expenses to consider.

Inexpensive changes like landscaping, paint, or flooring often start on the low end around $15,000, but choosing to fully remodel a bathroom or kitchen could have you looking at $70,000. Structural alterations or additions often add up to well over $100,000. It all depends on whether you’re doing a small-scale, mid-grade, or upscale remodel.

Get a free consultation with the contractors at Rabiot Excel Ventures:

Schedule Your Consultation

How to Pay for Renovations

Common financing methods for a home remodel include:

• Personal loans issued from a bank, lender, or family member
• Home equity loans, which offer financing based on the current value built up in the home
• Home equity line of credit, which funds multiple draws on a line of credit
• Government financing such as an FHA 203(k) loan or an FHA Title 1 loan
• Credit card purchases for the materials or labor needed
• Cash from a savings or checking account
• Refinancing your current mortgage for a lower rate or using cash-out to access equity funds

Depending on your personal finances, you may be eligible for one or more of these payment options.

What Type of Loan Is Best for Home Improvements?

The best type of loan for a home remodel depends on your unique financial situation and the scope of the project. A personal loan can be great for smaller projects, but may not provide enough money for large-scale renovations. You could also end up paying a higher interest rate than mortgage or home equity loans.

Qualifying for a government loan is beneficial because it is easier to obtain funds without having equity in the home. The rates also tend to be low. A home equity line of credit is another great option as the interest rates are low and you only pay for what you use. This does require home equity for lender approval, however. If you decide to use a credit card, be aware that most have limited funding and higher interest rates. 

Having the cash on hand to pay for a home renovation is usually the best financing option for a homeowner, but this isn’t always practical or possible. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t pursue your dream home. With the right planning and a contractor who will be creative in giving you options within your price range, you can create your ideal space.

If you’re considering a home remodel or addition, Rabiot Excel Ventures has experienced contractors who can handle your project from start to finish. We service Southeastern PA, including Berks, Montgomery, Chester, Lehigh, Lancaster and Lebanon Counties. Contact us to discuss your home renovation.

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Decide Whether to DIY or Hire a Contractor

Some homeowners are savvy DIYers, while others would rather call in a professional. Only you can decide what is best for your situation, but the scope of the project will be a major factor. A large home remodeling project where there are several rooms involved is probably easier with a contractor. 

In many cases it will save you time and money to hire a contractor. A professional will be able to spot potential issues with a design and work out better alternatives. An experienced residential contractor can also resolve unexpected problems that may arise during the renovation.

Vet Contractors

If you decide to work with a professional remodeler, spend time vetting several options. Here’s a quick checklist to go through:

• Ask family and friends for referrals
• Research home remodelers online and read customer reviews
• Narrow down your list to a few different options and then conduct interviews with each one
• Verify each contractor’s licensing, bonding, and insurance coverage
• Check each remodeler’s background and professional record
• See if the contractor has any professional memberships or designations

It’s important to work with a contractor who is properly licensed and bonded, carries liability insurance to cover any subcontractors that will work on the project, and has a clean record of professional conduct.

Work with a licensed contractor from Rabiot Excel Ventures.

Learn More

Decide on a Budget and Financing Methods

Budget is the most important aspect of any remodel. It determines the scope of the entire project and influences every decision, from the contractor you end up hiring to the materials you use. It’s a good idea to build in a 20% “cushion” in case things end up going over budget. So if you want to spend no more than $10,000, you should set your budget at $8,000.

It’s also a good idea to decide how you will finance the renovation. Are you able to pay in cash, or do you need to take out a personal loan? If you’re working with a contractor, will they work out a payment plan with you? How much money should you put towards a down payment? It’s best to answer these questions before you even get started.

Ask for a Written Contract

Once you’ve selected a remodeler to work with, it’s important to ask for a written contract so that everyone is on the same page about the project. You want to have a guarantee that the renovation will be completed to your satisfaction. This includes an agreed-upon bid price and payment schedule, a timeline, and a change-order clause. 

Work Out a Schedule and Living Arrangements

Take into account what the day-to-day will be like during the renovation. When will the contractor and subcontractors arrive each day, what hours will they work, and when will they leave? Deciding on a schedule ahead of time will help you know what to expect.

Depending on the area of the home that’s being remodeled, you may have to make other living arrangements. Extensive renovations will require you to stay at a hotel or live with relatives or friends. For smaller remodels, you can stick to a different area of the house.

Be Alert, Professional, and Courteous During the Project

Once the renovation starts, you should pay attention to the work that’s being done and speak up right away if you notice any issues or have concerns. Contractors want to make sure you’re satisfied, and it’s easier to fix problems as soon as they occur.

It’s also important to treat the contractor with courtesy and respect, even when things go wrong. This will go a long way towards building a good working relationship.

Do a Final Walk-through

Once the renovation is complete, do your own careful inspection. If you notice any issues, let the contractor know right away and work out a solution. Keep in mind that this is a professional relationship you may continue for years to come. Take note of how the remodeler handles your concerns. This will help you decide if you want to maintain a long-term relationship with the contractor.

Ready to Start a Home Remodel?

Do you want to remodel an area of your home to add more value or create your ideal living space? Rabiot Excel Ventures can handle the project from start to finish. Our residential contractors are licensed, bonded, and insured, and belong to several professional organizations. See what our clients have to say or get in touch with us to start planning your renovation.

The post How to Plan Your Home Remodel from Start to Finish appeared first on Rabiot Excel Ventures.

Many homeowners choose a standard width for their deck, which is usually 5.5 inches wide. However, there are different deck board widths to consider for decking. You may even decide that you like the look of multi-width decking. 

If you’re looking for a unique way to transform your backyard, a custom, multi-width deck is a great way to add more living space for you and your family.

Benefits of Multi-Width Decking

Using boards of different widths is a great way to build a visually appealing deck. Multi-width decking allows you to create contrast without using different board colors. For example, you can use wide boards to frame your deck. Or, you can arrange narrow boards to create different seating areas on your deck. This idea can be a fun alternative to adding an outdoor rug, as multi-width decking can create the illusion of a floor or area rug.

Multi-width decking also adds an upscale feel to your backyard, similar to hardwood floors inside your home. Geometric arrangements or other unique deck layouts can make your deck look and feel luxurious.

For a one-of-a-kind deck, consider using a design that incorporates multi-width boards.

Design Your Custom Deck

Design Tips and Ideas

Are you interested in a multi-width deck? Here are some design tips and ideas as you think about what you want.

• Wide deck boards draw the eyes outward, which can give your deck the illusion that it’s larger.
• Make your deck feel warm and inviting with geometric inlays for a seating area.
• Create built-in benches or seating areas with wide boards that blend with the rest of your deck.
• Create a pinstripe effect by combining narrow boards with standard or wide boards.
• If you like a herringbone design, use narrow-width deck boards.
• Add more contrast to your deck with multi-width deck boards in different colors.

How Rabiot Excel Ventures Can Help

Designs can range in complexity when using multi-width boards, so it’s best to work with an experienced deck builder. Rabiot Excel Ventures clients can choose from three deck board widths or mix more than one to create a unique look. We offer deck boards in these widths:

• Narrow: 3.50 inches
• Standard: 5.50 inches
• Wide: 7.25 inches

Not only are we experts in custom deck construction, but we also have years of industry-leading design expertise. We provide custom 3D designs for each of our clients. This allows them to see the difference that multi-deck boards can make in their outdoor living space. You can also view our design gallery for examples of projects that we’ve completed. With Rabiot Excel Ventures, your design options are limitless!

Ready to transform your outdoor living space? Contact Rabiot Excel Ventures to start building your custom deck.

The post Transform Your Outdoor Space With Multi-Width Decking appeared first on Rabiot Excel Ventures.

Finish Your Basement

1. Versatile Space

There are endless ways you can use a finished basement. Many homeowners like to add a full bathroom and use this space as a spare bedroom. Other popular uses include:

• Home Office
• Family/Game Room
• Home Gym
• Hobby Room
• Dining Room/Home Bar

Regardless of how you like to use extra space in your home, a finished basement can help. Its function/utility is only limited by your imagination.

2. Increased Home Value

One of the most enticing benefits of a finished basement is the added value for your home. In fact, this is a benefit with almost any home remodeling project. According to some reports, a finished basement can provide an average of 70% return on investment. In other words, if you spent $15,000 on a finished basement remodel, your home’s appraised value may increase by $10,500. Of course, there are other factors that will influence the value, such as your local real estate market.

The added living space may also attract more interested home buyers than if your basement is unfinished. If you believe resale is in your future, this may be especially appealing to you.

3. Energy Efficiency

A finished basement can help your home become more energy-efficient. In many cases, an unfinished basement with insufficient insulation allows air to escape.

A finished basement’s added layers of insulation and drywall help keep the temperature consistent and reduce the energy needed to heat or cool your home. If you struggle with high energy bills or want to limit your carbon footprint, finishing your home’s basement can help.

4. Storage and Organization

Do you sometimes feel that your available living space is cluttered or disorganized? If so, finishing your basement may be the solution. This space provides additional storage space for holiday decorations, toys, exercise equipment, and more. With smart storage solutions like cabinets or built-in shelving, a finished basement lets you store items safely and securely.

5. Added Income

If you are interested in earning some additional income, a finished basement can help. Turning this space into a spare bedroom with a full bathroom and kitchen or kitchenette can allow you to rent out this space to tenants or short-term renters.

If you are interested in this option, make sure that you work with a trustworthy contractor. Communicate your vision for this space and consider their professional input and recommendations.

From added value to additional living space, there are many benefits of a finished basement for homeowners. If you own a home in Eastern Pennsylvania and want to finish your basement, Rabiot Excel Ventures can help. Our team has decades of experience helping people transform their homes into the spaces they’ve always wanted. If you are interested in learning more, contact our team and start upgrading your basement today!

The post 5 Benefits of a Finished Basement for Homeowners appeared first on Rabiot Excel Ventures.

To learn more about how you can incorporate a fire pit into your existing outdoor living space, check out our Enjoy Your Outdoor Space in Colder Months article.

A Word from the Breyer Team

With the cooler air on the horizon, families are preparing for the back to school season.
The Breyer team wants to wish a safe, healthy and fun school year to all our client’s children beginning their next school adventure!

How Breyer Can Help

There are many ways to enjoy your outdoor living space in the cooler month. From fire pits to built in fireplaces and bars to built-in kitchens, Breyer’s dedicated staff is here to help make your dreams a reality.

To learn more about how our team can help you extend the usage of our outdoor living space, check out our  Hardscape Services page on our website.

To see what we have done for past clients look through our online portfolio. We hope that this serves as some inspiration as you begin to think through your outdoor living space!

If you are interested in adding an outdoor living space to your home, Rabiot Excel Ventures can help. Our team has years of experience working with homeowners to create the deck or patio they’ve always dreamed of. Interested in learning more? Contact us today and start building your perfect space.

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There are numerous options to consider when planning on how to receive the most value out of a new deck or patio.  The designers at Rabiot Excel Ventures work closely with their clients on identifying what is of top priority for them and their families and provide options that are the best fit.

You can learn more about these options by visiting our Custom Deck Design page.

A Word from the Breyer Team

As we are all enjoying the last days of summer, our Breyer team wants to take the time to thank everyone who entrusted us to design and build out their outdoor living spaces this summer. It truly has been a pleasure serving each of you and we hope you enjoy your space with family and friends, for years to come!

Tips on How to Maximum Your Outdoor Living Space

Below are a few tips from the Breyer team on utilizing your deck or patio to the best of its capacity:

• Furniture: make sure to use furniture that is scaled appropriately to your space. Oversized furniture can block the flow of traffic and create an awkward space.
• Built-In-Features: if you are renovating your deck, discuss the option of built-in benches with your construction firm. It is an option that would allow for additional seating without interrupting the flow of the space.
• Color: utilize beautiful colors when decorating to create a warm and inviting space that others will love to spend time in.

To learn more, here are some additional tips from the Rabiot Excel Ventures team on maximizing your deck or patio space.

If you are interested in adding an outdoor living space to your home, Rabiot Excel Ventures can help. Our team has years of experience working with homeowners to create the deck or patio they’ve always dreamed of. Interested in learning more? Contact us today and start building your perfect space.

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As a result, we’ve gathered a few tips for increasing your deck or patio’s function and appeal.

1. Scale Furniture Appropriately

If your patio or deck is small, oversized tables and chairs can slow the flow of foot traffic. On the other hand, a large outdoor area can feel disconnected without enough furniture. 

At a minimum, you want to add a table for multiple uses, an umbrella for shade, and enough chairs for your guests.

2. Plan Built-in Features to Maximize your Deck or Patio Space

When renovating your deck or creating a new outdoor area from scratch, consider integrated features that will help increase its usefulness. For example, if you frequently host friends and family for meals, for example, think about adding built-in benches. Or if you want to cook outside, a dedicated kitchen area is a smart investment.

Built-in hidden storage provides a place to stow cushions, gardening tools, and other odds and ends. Remember, don’t be afraid of making your space and your renovation work for you!

3. Add Color

The truth is that beautiful outdoor spaces get more use than drab concrete islands. Moreso, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to pull your patio together. Try incorporating a color palette with the use of accessories like rugs, outdoor pillows, and even flowers and plants. You can even go bold by commissioning a bright paint job for your wooden deck. 

Overall, the prettier your space the longer guests will want to stay.

4. Boost Privacy

Drapery panels are a quick and easy way to add shade while shielding your deck from view. This is because they enhance the visual interest of the space by coordinating with your decor scheme. 

If you prefer to drink your morning coffee without the watchful eyes of passers-by, you’ll find that breezy curtains fit the bill.

5. Maximize Your Deck or Patio Space by Incorporating Lighting

Not only does lighting set the mood when you’re hosting a soiree, it also allows family members to relax on the deck after dark. If you find yourself heading inside when the sun goes down, it may be time to think about ambient lighting for your patio. From tiki torches to string lights, the options are endless. As always, it’s important to make sure that key areas and pathways are illuminated for safety.

6. Bring It to Life

Living greenery provides lushness and warmth that will draw family members and guests into the yard.

If you think you don’t have room for a garden, use small containers, and take advantage of your vertical space. From colorful annuals that change with the seasons to home-grown herbs and low-maintenance succulents, there’s a plant for every type of homeowner. You can even select species that ward off bugs if you find your yard is a haven for mosquitoes.

Depending on the size and layout of your deck or patio, it can be easy for it to feel cramped or overwhelmed. If you believe your outdoor living space could use a makeover, start with these tips to refresh your space.

Similarly, if you are interested in adding outdoor living space to your home, Rabiot Excel Ventures can help. Our team has years of experience working with homeowners to create the deck or patio they’ve always dreamed of. Interested in learning more? Contact us today and start building your perfect space.

The post 6 Tips for Maximizing Your Deck or Patio Space appeared first on Rabiot Excel Ventures.