Lately, many homebuyers are beginning to look for builders that provide an extensive selection of upgrade options ranging from environmentally responsible hardwood flooring to all-natural western red cedar decking. So what are the latest upgrades resonating with the wants and needs of today's homebuyers?
Interior Upgrade Ideas
Hardwood floors with distinctive inlaid designs or distinctive flooring patterns are now more popular than ever. Inlay designs can create a dramatic effect in any room, and inlaid patterns can be used as a separation between flooring styles, on thresholds between rooms, to mark the outline of furniture groupings or to add a distinctive accent around certain areas or the perimeter of a room. These decorative touches can add real character to an otherwise normal room.
In the past, choosing interior hardwood used to be a simple decision: oak or maple. But today, you'll find a world of hardwood options including environmentally responsible choices as well.
One relatively new solid hardwood option is an environmentally responsible product. Lyptus® hardwood features a beautiful grain making it a versatile hardwood that takes a wide range of stains and finishes evenly such as: walnut, cherry, mahogany or maple - depending on the finish material use.
Lyptus® lumber comes from a Eucalyptus hybrid grown on plantations. One-third of the area is kept in native vegetation to help maintain elements of the natural ecosystem. After the first harvest, Eucalyptus trees are grown from the stump or root structure of the prior generation of trees, minimizing disturbance of the land-and making Lyptus® products a smart choice.
Lyptus® hardwood is available as flooring or as lumber for furniture, millwork and cabinets, has generated enthusiasm among homeowners and professionals alike. Lyptus® products are readily available, affordable and most importantly environmentally responsible.
Exterior Upgrade Ideas
One great way to make a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors is by incorporating a decking material that gives the impression it is an extension of the room inside. An all-natural western red cedar option, like CedarOne® materials from Weyerhaeuser, remains a revered and affordable decking material option.
Naturally durable, CedarOne® materials offer a timeless beauty when it comes to decking. Many people choose western red cedar due to its aesthetic appeal and physical properties. For centuries, cedar has been known for its exceptional beauty, versatility and longevity - cedar brings an exceptional all-natural look, aroma and character to outdoor spaces.
One distinctive and practical decoration idea is to change the deck board direction; an angle change or unique board pattern provides a subtle beautification. Lately, many homebuyers are requesting distinctive board designs like an octagon inlay underneath a cedar table - so unique, people often mistake it for a decorative rug.
In addition to CedarOne® products, some of the newest and most practical decking alternatives, commonly called composites, are ideal options when constructing a backyard deck -- especially homeowners looking for long-lasting decking materials that require the least amount of effort to maintain.
Weyerhaeuser ChoiceDek® materials are ultra-modern engineered decking products made from recycled plastic and wood fibers, with the classic appearance of wood. It's an environmentally responsible building material that does not require any special treatments, and is splinter resistant, making it an excellent choice for little feet and play areas. This durable material is also water resistant, slip resistant and stain resistant, which comes in handy with the little ones around.
Why not add a built-in ChoiceDek® bench along a stretch of deck with an unobstructed view? Built-in seating is an invitation to lounge awhile. Or, incorporate nature into the decking area by adding a planter box at select locations. These stylish boxes are simple to build and can dress up the decking area when filled with colorful flowers, herbs, vegetables, etc.
Learn more about Weyerhaeuser Lyptus®, trim and accessories and decking products.
