Composite decks really surprised me too. I had a client who dragged heavy planters around constantly, and I was sure we'd see scratches or scuffs eventually...but nope, still looks great. Brick definitely has that timeless look, but composite's ease of care is hard to beat. Plus, no more hopping around barefoot like you're on lava—been there, done that, haha.
Composite decks definitely have their perks, but I gotta say, I'm still partial to brick or natural stone. Yeah, composite is surprisingly durable and low-maintenance, but there's just something about the character and charm you get from brick. Sure, it can get hot underfoot, but that's what area rugs and outdoor mats are for, right?
I flipped a place last summer with a composite deck, and while it was easy to clean and looked pretty sharp at first, after a rainy season it did start to feel a bit slippery. Nothing major, but enough to make me cautious when walking around barefoot. Brick and stone seem to offer better grip in wet conditions.
Don't get me wrong though—composite has come a long way, and if you're looking for convenience, it's a solid choice. But personally, I'll take a little extra upkeep for that timeless vibe...and fewer slips after summer thunderstorms.
"Composite decks definitely have their perks, but I gotta say, I'm still partial to brick or natural stone."
I'm with you on this one. Composite is handy, no doubt, but brick and stone just age better over time. Did a patio in natural stone a couple years back, and even though it took a bit more effort to lay down, the payoff was worth it. It still looks great, and the texture gives it a nice grip—even after heavy rain.
I hear you about the heat issue though. Had to toss down a couple outdoor rugs myself, but honestly, that just added to the cozy feel. Plus, stone and brick seem to blend naturally with landscaping and greenery, giving the whole yard a more organic vibe. Composite can feel a little too uniform sometimes...at least for my taste.
Anyway, sounds like your outdoor space turned out great—enjoy it!
Totally agree about brick and stone aging gracefully. Composite has its place for sure—especially if you're after low-maintenance—but there's just something about natural materials that feels more inviting over time. Plus, stone patios can handle uneven ground better, which helps if your yard isn't perfectly level (like mine). Sounds like you nailed the cozy factor, rugs and all...bet it's a great spot to unwind now.
Good points on stone handling uneven ground—definitely a lifesaver if your yard slopes or dips. A few years back, I went with composite decking for convenience, but honestly, it never quite matched the warmth of natural stone or brick. Sounds like you struck a nice balance between aesthetics and practicality. Bet it's satisfying to finally kick back and enjoy the results after all that work...
