Choosing decking and railing colors isn’t the easiest task on your to-do list, but trust us, you can have fun if you take the right approach. Here are four tips to help you remove the stress and arrive at a decision pronto.
1. Make a Plan for Choosing Decking and Railing Colors
It’s often hard to make big decisions, so before you start, make a plan to get the job done in a timely fashion. First, gather the decision-makers. If you own a duplex or small apartment building with other investors, for instance, you’ll need to have a round-table discussion before making any decisions. Or perhaps you only have to take counsel from a spouse, or maybe it’s just you, which certainly makes it easier.
Next, gather your options. Sitting down with a giant array of colors is likely to make anyone freak out. Instead, ask yourself simple questions, such as:
- Do I want paint, stain, composite or all-weather aluminum, which never needs treatment or repainting?
- Do I care about matching the decking and railing colors to the rest of the house, or can I choose a look independent of the home?
- What colors do I gravitate toward?
Once you narrow down your options, you’ll have an easier time considering colors.
2. Choose a Small Number of Colors
Again, you’ll only make yourself crazy if you try to pick from a hundred different colors. It’s important to consider only a few options – three is ideal. Studies show that more than three options, and people tend to shut down and pick nothing. Don’t let that happen.
Instead, work with a decking company that provides the kind of decking you want. Give them a color range – say, neutrals or grays – and see what they have to offer. If you must expand outward, do so, but go with your gut at first.
3. Test the Colors Against Your Home or Building
Before committing to a large-scale project like a new deck, you must test those colors. After you choose yours, order a large enough sample to lean against a representative portion of your wall. Make sure you have decking material, house paint, and trim in the picture, so you get a real feel for the color combo.
4. Give Yourself Time to Change Your Mind … But Not Too Much
We, humans, are in a constant balancing act between impulsivity and analysis paralysis. You don’t want to make a decision you might regret, but neither do you want to spend too long thinking about it. Make your decision, then give yourself a week to change your mind before moving forward. In the case of a committee, move forward immediately.
Now that you know more about choosing decking and railing colors, you’ll have an easier time doing the job. If you want to learn more or order samples, please feel free to contact us here at Wahoo Decks today. Our friendly team will answer your questions and provide all the help you need along your journey to an awesome deck!