2012年1月31日 星期二

How To Prevent Wood Rot From Destroying Your Deck


Repairing or even rebuilding a deck is a timely and expensive endeavor. No deck will last forever, but an ounce of prevention can go a long way toward preserving your deck for many extra years. The key to maintaining your deck for the long haul is to prevent wood rot.

Wood rot is a fungus that feeds on wood. A few errant spores that find a nice moist home inside your deck can quickly eat it away from the inside out, forcing you to replace parts or all of the entire structure. To keep your deck strong and free of wood rot, take the follow precautions:

Use the right type of wood

Different types of wood have different susceptibilities to wood rot. If you have not yet built your deck, consider using Cedar, Redwood, or a Composite decking material. These types of wood can make a beautiful and sturdy deck and have the added benefit of being resistant to rotting wood. For even more prevention, use pressure-treated wood for the substructure (the frame work under the deck boards.) This might cost a little more money up front, but pressured-treated wood is a great shield against wood rot.

Keep your deck dry

The fungus that causes wood to rot festers in moist environments. Of course, your deck is outside and therefore subject to the elements, but there are many good sealants on the market that work really well and are easy to apply. Take your time in applying the sealant, making sure you cover all areas of the deck, especially between the boards. Reapply regularly. Prime and paint all lumber before you start to build. As you cut boards to length apply a coat of primer to the cut end. The cut end is like a sponge for sucking in moisture. After the frame work is completed apply a final coat of paint.

Be aware of trouble spots. Water can sometimes collect in the area where the deck attaches to the fascia board on the outside of your house. The solution is to cantilever your deck board approximately once inch over the existing fascia, which limits the number of areas where moisture, dirt and debris can find their way in.

Gaps are good

Most home owners want the boards of their deck to fit snugly against each other. This makes for a more solid floor, but it can also be a breeding ground for wood rot spores. When deck boards are laid down close together, water and debris can get caught between the cracks, giving wood rot the perfect refuge to grow and cause damage to your deck.

A slight gap between boards will make it easier to apply sealant in trouble spots and will also allow water and debris to drop through the gaps instead of hanging around and inviting wood rot. If you do go with more spacing between your boards, READ the manufactures' recommendation on spacing for composite.

Using the right type of wood to build your deck, keeping your deck dry, and adding a little more spacing between the boards will help you preserve your deck and prevent wood rot with minimal effort. That way, you can spend more time enjoying the things that make a deck such a great addition to your house: barbecuing with your family, reading outside in the morning, watching the sun set over the horizon with your spouse, etc...




Jeff Mudd at Best-Rate Repair & Construction Company Inc. Has two decades of Home Improvement experience. His website is http://www.best-rate-repair.com his company Specializes in Termite and Fungus damage to prevent wood rot. Rebuilding of decks, patios, stairs, and balconies for home owners, real estate agents and property managers has been our core business. Contact Jeff http://www.best-rate-repair.com to see what services they provide.





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Five Things Everyone Should Remember When Building a New Deck


Decks aren't rocket science.

Really. As home improvement projects go, they're relatively easy. In fact, their simplicity engenders some pretty misguided stereotypes. Too many of us think of decks as boring rectangles of wood stuck to the back of a house. But decks can be much, much more than that. Here are five things to remember when deciding whether to embark on a new decking project.

Not all decks are created square. Think about it: If you could completely rebuild your home from the ground up, would you simply build a squarish A-frame house with 90-degree angles in all directions? Of course not - you'd have gables, cornices, turrets - maybe even flying buttresses or parapets. There's absolutely no reason your deck should be a boring, rectangular affair; decks can feature multiple shapes, levels and points of entry.

Decking material isn't just for walking on. Whether you use wood or composite decking, the possibilities are endless. Try building a long bench on your deck, with a hinged seat so you can store sports or grilling gear underneath. Decking material can also make great planters or arbors. With the right plans, your deck can work with the very land itself, allowing space for greenery and even trees.

Above-ground pools can be a calling to something greater. Above-ground pools have a bad reputation - over the years they've taken on a more proletarian image than their in-ground siblings (despite the fact that they don't get you any less wet). But a swimming pool that sits six more feet above sea level than your home can be an invitation to build yourself a snazzy new deck, turning your pool into a backyard entertainment center - let the neighbors snicker at that. Pool decks can be simple structures that only service the ingress and egress of the pool itself, or they can be ornate and labyrinthine, housing barbecue grills, sunbathing benches and (hey, why not?) changing cabanas.

Balconies are just decks on the second story. Not all decks cover the ground floor. There's no reason your deck can't stretch out from a second-story den or family room. So if your home is on a hill, don't feel left out - there are plenty of decking options available. These are especially popular in rural areas, where the combination of an upstairs deck and a hilly, forested terrain make for a great rustic look.

Decks aren't decks without great railing. Nothing makes a deck look more professional than a matching set of rails. Fairway and Deckorators are great manufacturers of quality railing supplies, but spend some time searching the Internet -- there are dozens of great brands out there. Pick the one that's best for you.

If you're considering building a new deck, you're not alone -- it's something every homeowner thinks about at one time or another, particularly given the fact that many decks pay for themselves -- or come very close -- by improving the overall dollar value of the homes they're attached to.

The most important step in any decking project is the planning process, so feel free to stretch your wings a little bit during this time. Of course, expense is a factor, as well as labor (particularly if you're building your own deck), but with a little ingenuity, you'll be able to create a backyard paradise.




Kevin Ott writes about home improvement projects (like deck construction, basement remodeling and mold removal) and a wide variety of other topics. He writes for dozens of clients, including Sequoia Supply, the premier supplier of decking material in the Northeast.

Visit Sequoia Supply at http://decksupplies.com





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2012年1月30日 星期一

Plastic Decking - The Modern Solution For The Modern Home


Plastic decking will provide you with a low maintenance solution if you are building a new deck or repairing your old one. The material used in this type of decking does contain wood fiber or sawdust and wither recycled or new plastic. In contrast to traditional wood for decking, plastic never needs to be stained, painted or repaired. There are various colors available in the line of plastic decking. You can have decking that looks just like wood or you can get different solid colors to match the color of your home.

Decking plastic has many advantages over ordinary wood. For one thing it is moisture resistant. Most brands of plastic decking carry a 50-year warranty against decay, rot and damage due to insect infestation. The water resistant composition of plastic decking material helps to protect the wood fibers from any moisture damage. This decking material is well able to withstand the harshest of weather conditions. Even with a build up of ice and snow during the winter, the color will not scrape off.

Whether you want plastic decking for your patio or pool deck, this material is one of the best choices you will ever make concerning your home. It will beautify your outdoor living space and help to increase the value of your home. This plastic wood decking is recyclable and therefore environmentally friendly. It doesn't matter what type of traffic you have on the plastic decking material - small children running and jumping, wheelchair, bicycles or a crowd of people for a party, the plastic in the decking will not crack or splinter.

You won't experience any swelling or shrinkage with plastic decking. During the first few months after you install it, you may notice that a little bit of the color has faded from the plastic deck material, but it is very insignificant. This does not constitute a reason to contact the company regarding the warranty because this occurrence is perfectly natural. Like all other materials, plastic wood decking has to get used to the temperature and the weather of your location.

You don't need any special tools when installing plastic decking. It is recommended that you use screws when fastening the plastic deck material to the wooden deck frame. When you are fastening it using this method, there is no danger of splitting the plastic or ruining the grain. You may have to use corrosion resistant stainless steel screws if you live close to the salt water. If the screws rust, this can mar the beauty of your plastic decking.




To find out more about Decking visit Peter's Website The Decking Guide and find out about Composite Decking and more, including Wood Decking, IPE Decking, Trex Decking and Pool Decking.





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What a Specialty Deck Can Do For You


A specialty deck is a great way to improve the look of your home. It requires an already existing architectural feature which will be converted right into an invaluable element.

A remote and misused area at the rear of the garage where the sunrise is visible can definitely end up being the place of a tiny deck where you can sip your morning coffee while reading the newspaper.

Most houses constructed in early part of the last hundred years are perfect candidates for building a balcony deck next to a bedroom.

Also, a remote area in your backyard overlooking a garden may be altered with the building of an unattached deck. This kind of deck is generally constructed on pressure treated wood set on top of gravel for aeration and drainage. You can get a tremendous result by adding a decorative water fountain and lighting to use later in the day.

A number of specialty decks can fix already existing architectural problems such as an access deck that could modify a hidden doorway straight into a fantastic entrance which is a lot more noticeable to visitors. A spa or pool deck could significantly boost the poolside experience with regard to the wood surface which is a lot more interesting compared to tile or stone.

You could also consider a wraparound or winding deck that would stretch around corners of your house and that would link hard to reach locations of your home. Also, that type of deck whenever put to use as a pathway is incredibly helpful when the yard is too difficult or steep to get around.

Most pool owners opt for an above ground pool simply because it is affordable and uncomplicated to set up. The actual disadvantage linked with above ground pool is that gaining access is challenging simply because of its elevation from the ground level. Here the solution is to surround your pool with a deck. A deck will not only increase security linked with the pool but will enrich the look of the whole pool area.

Composite decking is best around a pool. It can conveniently be trimmed around complex pool shapes therefore getting rid of splinters and toe stubbing spaces. In addition, the deck surface is not slippery and will not be afflicted by extended exposure to water.

A specialty deck really is a tribute to the adaptability of wood construction. It can certainly be constructed rapidly, is fairly light in weight compared to cement or stone decks and is affordable to build.

If you are not skilled at drawing your design it is recommended to retain the services of a professional to help in the planning and the design of your specialty deck. If you decide to hire such professional, make sure you know exactly what you want in order to save substantial amounts of time as well as money.

Be aware of companies wanting to market their goods as they will state to be the solution for your deck design. Look for skilled construction companies which are usually hiring individuals that are competent designers.

Accredited landscaping architects tend to offer the most innovative options. Make sure to closely analyze their design concepts because their brilliant suggestions can significantly increase the cost of your project. You can also find deck projects and designs in books, magazines, or on the internet.

Cautious planning and basic carpentry skills could be combined with quite a few imaginative strategies to produce a specialty deck that will fulfill your needs as well as those of your family members.




Victor Ackers is an ordinary middle class working guy that enjoys woodworking a lot. It has been his main hobby for over 20 years. He takes great pride and satisfaction from the realization of woodworking projects. When he found the Best Woodworking Plans on the web, he created a blog so that he could share the link with all fellow woodworkers.

Visit Vic's Blog at http://www.bestwoodworkingplansblog.com where he shares his best discoveries on the woodworking market. Vic has been posting great articles & video tutorials for a few years.





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2012年1月29日 星期日

Hidden Deck Fasteners Will Make Your Deck Look Immaculate


Many people choose to not use deck fasteners because they feel that the traditional way of screwing in decking is cheaper. An unfortunate consequence of that decision is those people who want to build a deck cheaply most often end up with it looking cheap. Sure, buying hidden deck fasteners does come with a price. But, have you considered what saving a few bucks could mean in the long run? By the end of this article, you'll understand why buying deck fasteners is one of the best things you could do to ensure the long term sustainability of your deck and increase your overall return on investment.

It's important to know that hidden fasteners were invented for a reason. When people started having problems with nails popping up, or boards warping because the screw broke, they had no viable solution except to either replace the decking, or reinstall the deck board by screwing it in again. Needless to say, this could lead to an unsightly and very unattractive looking surface. Moreover, this is also dangerous because people are walk around barefoot, especially children. The thought of someone getting injured due to them falling because of a warped board or stepping on a popped up nail is bad enough. When you realize that, because we live in a litigious society, you could also get sued if a visitor or a visitor's child got injured on your property should make you realize that building a deck the right way the first time is vital.

While making sure that your patio is always safe is critical, let's face it; no one will even want to go onto your deck if it's looks bad, or is in bad condition. Again, using hidden deck fasteners to ensure that your deck/patio looks great from day one to year twenty is an investment that makes sense. But, are all deck fasteners created equal? Like anything else, you have to do your research. So, how do you tell whether or not the deck fasteners that you want to buy are perfect for your decking material?

Because there are so many different types of materials out there, you need to be sure that the deck fastening system you choose works best with your choice of decking. This is a critical point to remember because there are a lot of companies that sell one single type of deck fastener. For instance, if you are looking for composite decking fasteners and settle for fasteners made from cheap plastic, you may be in for a surprise as those fasteners end up breaking during installation. If you're using hardwood decking, you will need to buy wood decking fasteners that are durable and, yet still flexible enough to allow the wood to expand and contract as the weather changes and as it ages.

Here are some additional questions to ask when buying hidden deck fastening systems:

1) Does the deck fasteners I am buying work best with air-dried wood, kiln-dried, wood or composite decking?
2) Does the hidden deck fastener company sell deck fastening systems with stainless steel inserts to make the fastener have maximum holding power and nearly unbreakable?
3) Can these fasteners come in different colors to match my specific decking choice?
4) Do the hidden deck fasteners come with a warranty?

Ultimately, building an outdoor living space is a venture that cannot be taken lightly. Buying from a reputable company that sells high-quality deck clips and deck hardware at a great price will make building your deck much easier. Whether you are building a composite deck, or a wood deck, using the right hidden deck fasteners is critical. Best of all, when your new home addition is finally finished, you can rest easy knowing that years from now your deck will look just as good as it did when it was first completed.




Learn more about Deck Fasteners.





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How to Quickly Resurface a Patio With Interlocking Deck Tiles


If your patio or terrace has begun to look rather tired, or you would simply like to give it a makeover to create an entirely new look, there's a now a way you can achieve this without any backbreaking work or enduring weeks of tradesmen traipsing through your home - and it can be achieved at a very affordable cost.

Interlocking deck tiles are modular tiles typically 12" x 12" in size which are constructed with a plastic base with locking tabs on all four sides. These tabs enable the tiles to be simply snapped together over any firm surface. So they can be laid directly over surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, old tiled surfaces, bricks and pavers and suchlike. And with suitable surface preparation, they can even be laid over bare ground.

And one of the beauties of interlocking deck tiles is that they can be quite forgiving of cracked concrete surfaces. So if your old patio is suffering from cracks and minor pitting or other damage, you don't necessarily need to firstly repair the surface unless the cracking is so bad that there is a significant height difference on either side of cracks. In most cases, you can simply lay the deck tiles directly over the top of the existing concrete.

Another advantage of interlocking deck tiles is that the plastic base allows water to drain away freely from underneath the tiles. This means that the top surface will dry out as quickly as possible and will avoid any puddles from forming on the surface which could create a slip hazard.

But the biggest advantage of using interlocking deck tiles is probably that they are so quick and easy to install and don't really require any particular skills. Anyone who has ever laid conventional tiles would be aware of the frustration in ensuring that the spacing between the tiles remains even, that grout lines remain straight and parallel and that the height of the tiles bedded into the thinset or adhesive remains consistent. With interlocking deck tiles you don't have to worry about any of this. Because of the built-in interlocking tabs, complete accuracy is assured when installing the tiles because they simply snap into place.

These days, interlocking, tiles are available in a wide range of materials. So not only can you cover your deck with wood tiles in a variety of different species so that it will look like a natural wood deck, but there are also slate deck tiles, sandstone deck tiles, composite wood deck tiles and granite deck tiles. All these will basically have the same properties as the original surfacing materials. Although it might seem somewhat odd, with the stone tiles, you don't even need to insert any grout between the tiles. As with the wood tiles, the gaps between the tiles are left open and allow water to drain away quickly from the top of the surface down between the gaps in the tiles. Stone tiles may also have a textured coating or surface treatment so they will generally exhibit excellent slip resistance.

And of course the tiles can be used on much more than just patios. They are ideal for use in apartment buildings on balconies and rooftops, especially since they can conveniently be carried out elevators or stairs and used where permanently fixed materials are prohibited. And since there is no adhesive or grouting involved, it's a practically mess free installation method with practically no tools required either - a great boon for apartment dwellers.

Maintenance requirements for interlocking deck tiles are essentially the same as the material that is used on the surface. So for example if you were using wood deck tiles, the colour of the wood will fade and turn to a silvery grey over time when fully exposed to sunlight just as with a conventional wood deck. So it's always recommended to apply a good-quality decking oil at regular intervals to reduce this rate of fading. And with composite wood and stone tiles, it is always advisable to apply a sealer to reduce water penetration and staining.

But for a quick, easy to install and convenient way of resurfacing an existing hard surface, it's hard to go past interlocking outdoor deck tiles.




Malcolm Kay is the CEO of HandyDeck Systems a supplier of DIY decking products including interlocking deck tiles. For more information see http://www.handydeck.com





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2012年1月28日 星期六

Ipe Decks - No Chemicals Required


Ipe decking is not for everyone. That being said, it is for most people who are serious about a great product for durability, longevity and the multitude of properties Ipe possesses. It is a gorgeous rich brown tone with natural variations in shading and striking once installed. Nothing beats natural wood in aesthetics. If you are looking to spend the least amount of monies, looking to replace your deck in less than 5 years and don't mind mold and fungus or chemical out gassing than there are different products to fit your needs. Let's look at the different options.

Pressure treated wood is the main wood decking material used in the past. One reason is for the cost, two for the availability and three for ease of install. That was acceptable for the last few decades but now with new technology and new sources there are more acceptable materials for the outdoor application. This material is good for a few years but may splinter, crack and breakdown in a few years.

Composite decking is an alternative material that is well marketed. This fairly new material is heavily marketed as green as they use recycled content in the decking board but the only problem is the tests done on them reveal the recycled plastic is more susceptible to warping and breaking down. Thus creating a very unfriendly product as the lifetime of the product is cut way down and will end up being replaced over a short period of time. Some common complaints with this material are warping, staining, breaking down or flaking and mold/fungus growth. This product is man made with very little history of performance but a lot of great marketing.

Let's review Ipe decking materials. This hardwood also named ironwood for obvious reasons, has a janka hardness over 3600 compared to the California Redwood at 420. Naturally insect resistant, mold/fungus resistant and rot resistant this wood needs no chemical treatment. The only treatment you may need is the UV inhibitor to prolong the life of your deck over 100 years and to enhance and maintain the warm brown tones. Slip resistant and dense, this hardwood is used in commercial applications such as the Boardwalk in Miami for good reason. Ipe decking can be used in any design from contemporary to traditional. You won't be disappointed with the look of this material it will complement the most custom homes and enhance any project.




Rosi Lehr is a contributing writer for Advantage Trim & Lumber Co.
Ipe Decking





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Ipe Decking - The Natural Choice


Ipe (aka Brazilian walnut, Amapa, Cortez) decking known also as ironwood has gained popularity as consumers have become more educated. Not only is Ipe a natural rich looking product but it is an extremely dense hardwood. It is 3x's as hard as oak with a Class A fire resistance (same rating as concrete and steel). Ipe wood is resistant to mold and fungus. Don't worry about pesticides as Ipe is rot and insect resistant as well.

Ipe decks are installed all over the world by the most discriminating consumers not only for its aesthetic value but the maintenance free care. High end homes are specifically looking to install ipe decking because it is the gem of hardwoods in all aspects from the deep rich tones to the tight dense grains to the natural beauty only nature can produce. High end clients are familiar with this knowledge, as it has been tested time and again that we can not reproduce what nature has created nor should we continue to try.

Composite decks have tried to reproduce the look and the quality but it still looks like plastic wood with all the downfalls that come with composite products, molding issues, delamination and staining to name a few. There are other woods that are used for decking but the fact remains that the wood for longevity and strength to use for outdoor applications should be ipe. This conclusion is based on research and time. The fact that ipe decking has been specified in projects such as the South Beach boardwalk in Miami Beach, Las Vegas Resort Hotel and the Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco alone lends creditability to its longevity.

The Brazilian hardwood color can vary from a yellowish brown to reddish brown in medium tones to almost black shade and slowly patinas to a silver-ish grey tone unless maintained with ipe deck sealer. Ipe decking comes in different width ranging from ¾"to 1.5"average with length from 6-20' average. Special order sizes are available along with accessories such as handrail system, post caps and plugs.

When considering the longevity of your decking and replacement costs not to mention the down time involved, many consumers realize the value of Ipe. It is the natural choice.




Rosi Lehr from Advantage Trim & Lumber
Ipe Decking





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How Deck Rails Can Transform Your Outdoor Living Space


There are many ways to personalize a deck, but one of the most visually stunning is to include unique or custom handrails. The handrails are one of the most visible parts of any deck, and these days, there are more deck rail options for consumers than ever before. Here's a look at the differences between some of the various handrail options on the market

Glass Handrails

If you have an amazing view you want to show off from your deck, glass handrails can help you do that. A glass deck rail system includes panels of glass held in place by aluminum, vinyl or wood. The transparent glass won't block your view of the surrounding landscape, but it will help block the wind and make your deck more comfortable, which is why glass handrails are popular for coastal homes.

Aluminum Handrails

Aluminum handrails are robust yet lightweight, which makes them a good, durable choice for areas that might see some rough wear. Not only is aluminum virtually maintenance free--it won't rot or corrode when exposed to moisture--but it's easily customizable to match the style of your home.

Cable Handrails

Cable handrails consist of stainless steel cable suspended between wood or aluminum posts. Not only do they require minimal maintenance, but they have a sleek, subtle look and are nearly invisible when viewed from the side. Like glass handrails, cable handrails won't obscure the view from your deck. Because of their ability to make small spaces more open, cable handrails are ideal for small cedar decks and balconies.

Vinyl Handrails

Vinyl handrails are a durable, low-maintenance option. They're resistant to scratching, fading, insect infestations and cracking, and they stand up well in wet climates like the Pacific Northwest. Vinyl handrails come in a variety of colors, allowing you to accent your deck by matching your handrails to the color of your home.

Composite Handrails

Composite deck rails combine the natural beauty of wood with the durability of plastic. They're a popular choice among homeowners seeking the warm appearance of wood without the regular maintenance. Often made from recycled materials, composite handrails are a sustainable, long-lasting option that won't fade or weaken in extreme weather.

Wood Handrails

When it comes to cedar decks, wood is the most commonly used handrail material. Its strength and natural appearance have made it a timeless favorite among homeowners. Wood can be cut into unique shapes, or it can be mixed with other materials, such as glass or aluminum. Unlike other types of handrails, wood deck rails can be stained or painted to achieve any color you desire. However, they do require regular maintenance and must be restained at least every few years.

Customized deck rails can add a dash of sophistication to your deck and make your property stand out from the rest of the homes in your neighborhood. With such a variety of materials to choose from, you can achieve just about any look you desire.

~Colleen Welch, 2010




Interested in making your deck stand out? Check out photos of our contemporary glass, cable and aluminum handrails to see how they can enhance your deck or balcony at Rick's website for composite and cedar decking in the Pacific Northwest.





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2012年1月27日 星期五

Garden Decking Planning


Planning the perfect garden deck for your home will add value and create an outdoor living space for your enjoyment. You will need to decide where you want to place the deck. Once you have decided where you are going to put the deck let the planning begin.

Most decks are high points in the garden landscape. You will want to have privacy on your deck. Decide how you want to accomplish screening out prying eyes. Several ways to go about this are by either building a trellis or a pergola. You can combine these two elements and create your very own secret garden.

You will want to decide what you would like to do on your deck. Do you want to cook on it? Do you need to relax after a hard day at work? Will you want to garden on your deck? You will need to really think about this in the planning stage to determine the size of the deck that will give your desired result.

Wood decks are beautiful. They do require you to keep them clean and oil them once a year. There are new composite decking materials that claim to be maintenance free. The biggest problem with these products is they fade and mildew. To clean the composite decking you have to use toxic chemicals to clean off mildew and stains. They may fade to an ugly color you find hard to live with and then they need to be replaced.

The best way to green build a deck is to use new post for your deck to give your deck maximum life. Then use recycled wood for the decking and under decking. You will never see the under decking and you can put a new finish on the recycled wood for a beautiful finish. Deck finishes have been developed in recent years that are friendly to the environment and give you any finish you desire.

If you are going to add a pergola to your deck you will want to purchase posts that will give you the ability to do so when you purchase your posts. You can add a trellis to the railing supports easily and they will support most trellis plantings.

You can add a screen made out of bamboo that will last for many years to avoid prying eyes. You can paint them with a design to add that designer element you are desire.

Planning the right garden deck for your private garden will give you years of pleasure and enjoyment. Poor planning can make it an eyesore and make you wish you had never built it in the first place.




For more ideas and tools to help you discover your perfect deck visit http://nettieh.com/2011/02/13/decking-designs-1001-ideas-for-outdoor-spaces-the-ultimate-sourcebook-decking-paving-designs-accessories/





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How to Build a Green Deck


During nice weather, outdoor living spaces become a very popular place to be. Green decking options offer homeowners the opportunity to create their favorite "room" of the house with a less harmful impact on the environment. Chances are, you are probably already using reusable grocery bags and remember to unplug and turn things off to preserve energy so you may as well make an outdoor space that you enjoy so much part of your Green living lifestyle as well.

Certified Wood

Everyone can appreciate the charm of a natural wood deck but these products can really put a heavy burden on the environment.

Now, thanks to efforts to preserve and protect forests, homeowners can choose lumber from a forest that is sustainable and economically viable. Since 1990, more than 220 million acres in 82 countries, the Forest Stewardship Council has made it possible to trace the origin of raw lumber. Many manufacturers are also finding creative, non-toxic, earth friendly treatment solutions.

Plastic Lumber

This product looks like wood but it's made from recycled plastic. It does not fade, splinter or rot and it comes in an array of colors. Plastic lumber has been proven very effective for decks, piers, outdoor furniture, nature trails and park benches.

Wood-plastic Composite

Wood fiber and recycled plastic, marry together to create a wonderful decking product that is stronger than using plastic lumber yet costs less than sacrificing trees. These products are durable and will not splinter or rot.

Wood-plastic composite is exploding in popularity with homeowners because it does not require staining or painting. Grocery stores offer you a reusable shopping bag and now environmentally friendly companies offer you a product that is using recycled plastic that may have otherwise ended up in landfills.

Added Benefits Of Composite Decking

Aside from the fact that it has virtually no upkeep, is incredibly durable and slip resistant, these products have came a long way in appearance since being introduced in the 1990s. There are more color options available now as well as added accessories such as attractive hand-railings and hollow posts for decorative lighting. Color options range from the look of tropical-type hardwood to shades of gray.

Composite decking is also ideal for walkways, hot tub surroundings and yard structures. This is an excellent option to combine high quality, an authentic look and Green living together. As more homeowners continue to demand Green building products, eager manufacturers are designing exceptional materials to serve their needs.

Outdoor Furniture

When choosing outdoor furniture for your deck, there are many wonderful environmentally products to choose from now.

Poly-wood is recycled plastic blended with wood to reach long lasting, water-resistant furniture that comes in six color choices. Bamboo is a phenomenal option to look into when shopping for outdoor furniture. It is grass that grows incredibly fast, saves trees and creates a fabulous product. Teak is an exceptional product to choose for your outdoor furniture a well. Natural oils are used to make it water resistant. Teak is generally harvested from designated growth plantations so no harm is being done to forests for the material.

Any environmentally friendly furniture product is going to be durable which means it will last a long time and less energy down the road is used when you don't have to replace it with a new product. It takes energy to dispose of trash so less trash means less toxic gases being released in the atmosphere.




Eliza Reeder writes articles that deal with environmental concerns and eco-friendly living. She encourages everyone to help protect our planet's future by doing things like using organic cotton bags. You can find more eco-friendly living tips on her reusable bags site.





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2012年1月26日 星期四

Putting Together Deck Ideas For Your Contractor


For many people their decks are a creation of theirs that brings out the appeal of their home as well as provides an area to enjoy being outdoors. In fact, many create it so they can pamper their personal taste and add a value to their home!

For a Custom Deck Choose a Good Designer

Most people only dream of basting in the warm sun while enjoying the beauty of nature around them, while relaxing in the comfort of their most comfortable lounger on their solid and great looking custom built deck! However, a custom and creative designed deck will complement your life and your home's value; which is a positive! When ordering a custom deck designer, you will want to make sure they know what your personal needs are as well as any other information and thoughts that you may have; even if it is with the materials they use or the actual construction. If you do not know what you want, you can always get deck ideas from the contractors. In fact, their job is to provide you with a deck of your liking and satisfaction, as well as being strong and impressive. In the end, it will show that only highly skilled and competent people have customized and built a deck of your needs!

Following Up on Warranty and Building Codes

When it comes to good quality custom decks, they are always covered by written warranties as well as any type of relevant building codes. Also, any material used is of the best quality possible; which will provide you with a long lasting and maintenance free deck that is beautiful to look at while adding value to your home!

Picking out the Materials

Depending on what your budget is and what you like, you can choose between a composite or natural material for the basic component of your custom built deck.

For composite materials, there are several designs and colors to choose from; which is basically a wood-polymer board that is made to bring the best parts of the wood and plastic together; to look nice. With composite materials you are mostly dealing with chemicals in the boards more than you are wood; which makes them great for resistant to any weather!

With natural materials, the most common used wood is cedar or redwood. For cedar, you are getting a rich texture, captivating hues going from dark to light shades as well as beautiful grains. Also, cedar has more stability do to its natural oils, where redwood offers better adhesion to finishes because it too has no oils.

Depending on what you want, you can almost anything built; out of any materials, especially if you don't have any deck ideas already!




Adam Peters is the author of more resources published at http://www.deck-porch-railings.com - Keep reading about deck ideas and hand railings at his web.





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Fixing Up Wire Deck Railing Without The Complications


Current trends in home improvement show that an increasing number of house owners opt to have their houses renovated for long-term residence than move to a new property. The current state of real estate has influenced the changed mindset of home owners nowadays. Investments are being made to homes raising its landholdings value, not to forget, injecting their personal style. In the past, many home owners have concentrated on having their interiors made better, however this year, residents are investing more in outdoor improvements from the top to bottom.

For simple yet elegant homes, the residents may choose composite deck railings and those who live in modern style houses may choose wire deck railings. There are various designs available for deck rails that are suitable for any architectural type. For do-it-yourself fans, there are simple ways of installing deck railing without the assistance of professionals.

Many agree that cable deck railings are easily installed compared to its wooden board counterparts. The helpful deck railing installation tips are as follows:

* Purchase wire nettings at the hardware store or animal supply shop. The mesh is commonly used in industrial jobs or farms with poultry to enclose chicken coops for instance. There are a large number of basic wire designs that can improve the aesthetics of your outdoor area and at the same time securing your deck.

* Cut the wire pieces into parts. If the distance between the rail posts are four feet (the ideal distance), the parts should be about the same length. Firmly fix the cable in various areas to check if the wire is stretched tightly and stay in place independently. Staples or hooks will be fine to use for attaching the netting.

* Further secure the wire firmly. Add support by placing an extra slab of wood over the connection spots to increase wire firmness and at the same time obscure the cable joints. Hammer the added parts into place; applying paint would make this part look better. Some fasten the wire behind the railing to avoid eyesores.

In the home improvement industry, there are numerous companies providing materials for deck installation nowadays, assuring the quality and durability of your decks which makes the buyers choose from a wide range of options. No matter what type of deck design householders decide on choosing will be a possibility because of the industrial developments.

An easy to install wire deck railing needs maintenance, good thing, this type just requires basic cleaning. Decks are an expansion of a home's indoor areas and are great places to do activities that are private or involving the community. What better place to make these memories than on the deck of your dreams.








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2012年1月25日 星期三

The Best Wood Deck Designs - Plans and Designs and Tips To Get Started


Finding the best wood deck designs definitely takes some work and since it's such a long term investment, it's wise to make sure that you do your homework to ensure that you made the right decision.

So here are a small list of the best wood deck designs that you'll find in North America.

The Basic Wood Deck:

This is obviously the most typical type of deck out there. It the basic design for most homes and given the flexibility when it comes to staining and wood choices, the possibilities are endless.

Surface Level Pool Deck:

As denoted by the name, these are ideal when it comes to having a pool that is above ground. They are usually designed in a matter that help prevent the pool from leaking and also from its' users from falling out of it. They are a breeze and ideal for frequent pool users.

Composite Deck:

Composite decks are definitely a little newer, they're part polymer and part wood. They provide better resilience over the years and don't splinter as easy while all at the same time maintaining the same visual appeal as an ordinary wood deck.

Roof Deck:

Not everyone has the luxury of living in a large area with acres of property, some people prefer urban life and the ability to enjoy the outdoors should not be wasted. Roof Decks are popular among more urban settings, but zoning laws and regulations are a little more strict on these for obvious safety reasons.

Vinyl Deck:

These are truly cutting each and the best part is, they're much more affordable than the other options. They don't splinter, they don't need to be stained and are virtually maintenance free. Although they don't have the same visual appeal as a genuine wood deck, with the cost and maintenance factored in, in most situations, it just makes it a no brainer.

Now that we've covered the basic Wood Deck Designs, let's talk about some basic tips before we decide to do this ourselves or hire someone.

Per the descriptions above, you'll need to determine the type of material you'll want to use for your deck, and this can be as simple as going to your local hardware store to see it for yourself.

Unless you live in a rural area, you'll also probably want to contact a local professional with regards to zoning and permits, the last thing you'll want to do is begin or finish construction only to find out that what you were doing was not legal.

The first and best part of this entire process is actually deciding what you want you want to use your deck and how it's going to look. I've have a giant list of different designs(free) you can check out for yourself at my website below.




The 10 Best Wood Deck Designs [http://www.mywooddeckdesigns.com]. I used to pay professionals a lot of money for custom designs until I came across this awesome guide, tons of amazing pre-formatted plans that conform to all the major cities.

[http://www.mywooddeckdesigns.com]





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Know All About Composite Fencing


Composite materials like recycled plastic, wood and fibers are very much in demand these days. These days we can easily make decks, fences and shingles with the help of composite materials. These materials are more durable and environment friendly. The initial cost of composite materials may be high but they are very profitable in the long run. Before investing money on such materials, it would be beneficial to know the advantages and disadvantages of using them.

So, now let me tell you about some essential things that you must surely know about composite fencing.

1. Composite fences are available in different shapes and sizes

You will see that these days composite fences are available in various different styles, colors, designs and sizes which are very similar to the traditional fences. You can search for composite fences through online websites and home improvement stores. These days you also get composite fences embossed with wood grain and completed with a wooded finish that often resembles the redwood, oak, pinewood and cedar fences.

2. Advantages of composite fencing

Composite fences have various advantages which are not found in the traditional wood ones. These fences do not rot and are not affected by termites and carpenter ants. The materials used are environment friendly and does not contain any wood preservatives. They are durable and not prone to fading, weathering and staining.

3. Composite fences do not sag

This fences do not face the problem of sagging. They are hollow and are made of a light stainless steel core that prevents the fences from sagging due to the change in the weather conditions. These fences are more expensive than those made of traditional wood, but purchasing composite fences would surely be a good investment for you in the long run.

4. Conduct an online research

If you want to use the composite materials for constructing your fences, then you should first conduct a good research on the internet. The internet would surely provide you all the information about the composite substances in a great detail.

5. Disadvantages of composite fencing

Like the traditional wood fences, composite fences also have some drawbacks related to it. This material is heavier than wood and needs smaller joist spacing. Sometimes special fasteners are also required because the change in the temperature can increase the flexibility of such materials. Composite materials are softer than other materials so it can get scratches easily.

I am sure the above stated points would really help you to know about composite fencing in a great detail.




Would you like to see what your backyard can become? Contact Fences and Decks in Dallas to know more. We build backyard environments.For more information please visit: Fences and Decks





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2012年1月24日 星期二

How to Build a Deck - Deck Plans & Materials


The first thing about learning how to build a deck is to understand the components and terminology of what goes into a deck. Obviously the first thing is to have some deck ideas of what you wish to do and have drawn up or purchased some deck plans.

Deck designs can be as simple or as complicated as you like, however the more complicated the more cost to having plans drawn up and in materials required. Most people who are looking to learn how to build a deck are likely to want an entertainment area either as a new project or an addition to an existing deck for the family home. Timber decks are a fantastic place to entertain friends and for relaxing in an outdoor situation, bbqs, parties, you name it decks are a great outdoor retreat.

Basic deck structures.

The components of a deck comprise of; footings, posts, bearers, joists, decking boards and balustrades.

Assuming we are learning how to build a timber deck we will cover timber deck span tables towards the end.

Starting from the ground up you will need a sound foundation, Your foundation will comprise of posts set into footings of concrete. These posts will support the main bearers or beams. On top of the bearers we lay the deck joists which in turn have the decking boards laid on top.

These guidelines are suggestions only, please check your local building regulations before beginning any deck structure, and always follow all safety precautions.

Materials.

For the posts, beams and joists you can use hardwoods or soft woods. Treated pine is the most sustainable timber and is an excellent choice for the majority of situations.

Decking timbers.

Again treated pine is a good choice as is redwood, western red cedar, Cyprus and gum. In various parts of the world hardwoods such as kwilla and balua are available however I wonder about the sustainability of using rain forest timber for decks. Also increasing on the market are composite decking products, these materials are getting better every day, not only looking as good as timber but are rot and pest free and don't need constant maintenance and re sealing as timber decks do.

Deck Span tables.

These will differ in many areas and also with the type of timber used. As a general guide;

Foundation posts will be 4"x 4" ( 100 x 100mm). Your post hole dimensions will depend upon the quality of ground you are laying foundations on.

Bearers and beams. Depending upon the distances to span the size of the timber will increase. the further the span the heavier the timber in size will be. Typically a short span of say 6 feet (1800 mm) would require a beam of 4" x 8", up to say 12 feet ( 3600) you would go for a beam of 4" x 10".

Deck joists - When spanning beam spacings of up to 8" (2400 mm) you will need 6 or 8" x 2" ( 190 x 50 ) when in doubt go heavier than what you think you need, for spans up to 10 or 12 feet ( 3000 - 3600 mm) opt for 10 x 2 joists.

Learning how to build a deck is very straight forward and is within the capabilities of anyone who can read a plan and wield a hammer, there is not much that can go wrong as long as you follow well written deck plans.




Mike Groves is an authority on Home improvement, for more information about Deck Plans visit his site http://woodworkingplans.com.au/.





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How Is Ipe More Eco-Friendly Than Composite for Decking?


When I was young, my father told me not to take things at face value but to research it and look into the statements being presented. Of course I paid little attention to those words of wisdom. As I grew older I learned the value of those words. This is truly a complex and diverse world we live in and as technology expands so does our access to knowledge unlike anything before. This being said, we also live in a world of instant gratification and that can hinder our choices to make an informed decision.

We want it and we want it now. It looks great and sounds great so let's get it done yesterday. The problem results when we realize we didn't get what we thought we were getting and if we had taken the time to research and examine what we were jumping into that the choice would have been different. I know the story of your life but when you are spending $5,000-25,000 on a product, it's not that easy to correct it.

Take for example, the decking industry. This industry is growing by leaps and bounds, just take a look at the number of composite and PVC decking companies that have popped up in the last decade. The marketing ploy has been use eco-friendly products and help save the trees but what it breaks down to is a product with a bad track history and no place to recycle the deck when it has to be replaced due to deterioration, de-lamination, molding, fungus growth, warping and discoloration just to name a few. PVC decking emits VOC's and if near a fire can gas off toxic fumes for some time after fire has been extinguished. How is a deck eco-friendly when it has to be replaced in 5-10 years and has resins that do not decomposed opposed to wood, which naturally decompose back to the earth?

Eco-friendly and recycled sounds great but lets examine this, recycled plastic and sawdust manufactured for long term outdoor exposure with extreme weather temperatures and standing water. The numerous lawsuits and closed composite companies as well as the unanswered warranty requests would answer that. Research has been done on recycled plastics and it does not have the original tensile strength that the original plastic had so utilizing a product that doesn't have the tensile strength it once had doesn't sound like it would work for a product that you trust will hold people. The PVC that some companies boast as a superior deck would sound logical if it weren't for all the health issues that are directly linked to it. As for recycling, PVC was labeled a contaminant in 1998 and efforts to recycle it were declared a failure by the Association of Post Consumer Plastics Recyclers.

Tropical decking such as ipe last 50 plus years without any treatments and decomposes back to the earth. There are companies that plant 4-5 trees for every tree that is felled. There are other species such as cumaru, tigerwood and garapa that also last without treatment and are available from sustainable forests and legally obtained. Our government has processes that assure that we report our suppliers and information on container stuffing to ensure we obtain legal lumber. Our earth has supplied us from the beginning of time with this precious resource and in order to avoid using the land for cattle and agricultural cropping, buying wood ensures we preserve our land for wood.




Rosi Lehr is a contributing writer for Advantage Trim & Lumber Co.
Ipe Decking





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2012年1月23日 星期一

Tearing Down an Old Deck Floor


Ignore those cracked and split decking boards and the rot lurking beneath, and your deck becomes an eyesore with compromised structural integrity. Follow these tips for tearing down an old deck floor to enjoy a beautiful new one.

If your deck is located in a heavily-shaded area, consider trimming tree branches. This will provide more sun exposure and less moisture from overhanging branches. Planning is the key to any project of this magnitude and that's why it's a good idea to have a dumpster delivered ahead of time. Keeping your yard free of nail-infested boards is safer for everyone, especially small children and pets. If you are using alternative materials, like composite decking or vinyl, always follow the manufacturer's recommended installation procedures for the product you buy and check with your local municipality for building codes.

Start your project with a good pressure cleaning of your deck. By removing the dirt and grime, you are better able to assess necessary repairs. Mix one quart household bleach, 1/3 cup powdered laundry detergent and three quarts warm water to remove dirt, mildew and weathered wood. Use a stiff bristle brush to clean the deck, rinsing with the power washer. Adjust the power washer to fan out so that it doesn't penetrate the wood. Go along the grain and into the grooves. To remove tree sap, you can use white wall tire cleaner and a scraper. Apply the cleaner to the area, letting it set for a few minutes before scraping the sap away. Wood needs twenty-four hours to dry. Once dry, you can identify decking boards that are spongy or completely rotted out.

Extract the screws or nails from the boards that need replacing. Use a crow bar or flat bar to pry stubborn boards loose. In some cases, boards can be re-used by flipping them over. If you are replacing all the decking boards, start at the outside board and work your way toward the house. Otherwise, you'll run out of places to stand!

With the rotted boards removed, you may notice rot on the joist below. Chisel away the rot and spray sealer on the support joist. Allow this to dry before applying a second coat. For further structural support, run sister joists alongside the old ones.

When you are ready to place the new boards, consider vinyl decking for its easy installation and low maintenance. But if you are using wood, make sure you buy decking boards of matching lumber long enough to span the width of your deck. You can give your new decking boards a weathered look by scrubbing them with a mixture of one gallon water and one cup baking soda. When you have achieved the look you want, rinse with water and dry before sealing and staining to match the others. Cut the new decking boards to size and pre-drill the ends of the boards to prevent the wood from splitting. Install boards 1/8 inch apart to provide enough space for drainage. The last thing you want is water aging your deck prematurely. Because boards naturally "cup" as they age, it is best to place boards bark side down, preventing the cupped surface from holding standing water. Re-install your old boards with galvanized screws in the old nail holes.

Whether using wood, composite or vinyl decking, you'll appreciate your deck much more knowing you've maintained it properly. Let the hammering begin.




When taking down a deck, make sure you educate yourself in the different types of decking such as vinyl decking.





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Decking Designs That Invite Entertainment


There are a variety of ways to design a deck or patio space that will allow you to enjoy more time with friends and family. This planning stage of your deck will be one of the most important times to take different factors into consideration. We'll cover some of these topics in this article. Decking designs that incorporate these elements will give you a more balanced deck.

The first place to start is with a discussion about the decking materials, size and the railing or lighting options. Decks are commonly made of wood. Cedar is a commonly used material. It is a soft wood that makes a great deck because of its natural weathering properties. It is resistant to rot and weathers to a beautiful silvery-gray color.

You might also like the idea of little to no maintenance that can be provided by a composite decking material. Trex decking is just one such name to keep in mind. This brand brought some of the original composite materials to market and is a leader in innovation of these paper and resin products.

The size of your deck is another thing to keep in proportion. Like with other aspects of your home, the deck should be kept in proportion to the other rooms in your home. One idea that has been suggested is to keep the largest space of your deck no larger than the largest room inside your home. For a deck that will be used for entertaining or that will have a patio set, a minimum size of 12'x12' is adequate to give you some room to move about.

You can 'frame' your deck with the right type of railings. Deck railings include metal and wood choices. Metal railings can provide you with a more maintenance free option, as well as more solid appearance. These and other railings can support the use of deck lighting like rope lights, post cap lights or string lights. Including these properties in your outdoor living area will be a product of great decking designs.




Michael James McCord is a patio enthusiast himself, with some first hand knowledge of how to design and ultimately use a patio. Most of his articles on http://patiocoversplace.com are similar in topic, such as this one about decking designs.





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Deck Screws - A Buyer's Guide


Building a deck is an investment in both your lifestyle and your home's value. This is why deck builders know that in order to ensure that your new deck is built to last, they will recommend using deck hardware and tools that will last as long as your deck. In addition to deck fasteners, one piece of essential deck hardware that is often overlooked is deck screws. Simply put, you have to be sure that the decking screws you buy are not going to strip, or break during or after installation.

If you're a do-it-yourself homeowner taking on a deck building project, buying cheap decking screws will pretty much guarantee that you will have a horrible deck installation experience. This is especially true if you are building a wood deck with exotic hardwoods such as ipe decking, tigerwood decking, cumaru decking, or garapa decking. These hardwoods can be quite a hassle, especially ipe since it is, by far, one of the hardest decking materials you can buy. The same goes for cumaru decking. Both can make inexperienced deck builders and homeowners doing a DIY home improvement project use words that would make their mothers ashamed!

Regardless of the hardwood decking you choose, here's what you need to know about buying the right deck screws:

Buy stainless screws made of high quality stainless steel. 305 and 316 grade stainless steel are the most commonly used and ideal for exotic hardwood decking. However the grade is not always the difference maker. Screws are typically a product that you get what you pay for. There can be a huge difference between a cheaply made 305 grade stainless screw and one manufactured from top quality materials.

Although stainless steel is a generally soft material, it is required when installing a hardwood deck because other materials can react with the hardwoods and cause corrosion issues or give off hideous stains on the decking surface. 305 and 316 grade stainless steel screws are totally ideal for deck building because they offer great corrosion resistance, have maximum drawing ability and superior formability. Their high corrosion resistance means that these stainless deck screws can last through seasonal changes and inclement weather. Choosing cheaper screws will lead to cam-out, the heads completely stripping and, worse, snapping.

The issue of stripping is one that also needs to be considered. This is where the screw head needs to be your number one focus when it comes to buying deck screws. Why? Think about it. If you buy cheap deck screws that fit a Philip's head bit and you're using ipe decking, you'll run through a whole bunch of screws because of the density of the wood. The force needed to drill in an inferior screw pretty much guarantees that you'll end up with rows and rows of stripped screws, or worse, very brittle screws that will break over time.

Again, buying high-quality stainless steel decking screws will increase your chances of a smooth deck installation process. Moreover, if you buy torx drive screws you'll really have a better time building your deck. Torx screws are just the thing for hard wood decking. Any good deck builder will tell you that building a hardwood deck from dense woods such as ipe, cumaru, tigerwood, and garapa, can only be done with resilient deck screws. Torx deck screws have a six-pointed star head that resist cam-out and stripping much more than other head designs.

If you still think you'll be just fine building your wood or composite deck with cheap deck screws, do yourself a favor. Buy at least one third more in screws so that you can have enough to replace the ones that snap or strip. The last thing you need is to run out of screws and then spend more time and money driving to the home improvement store. At this point, do you really think you'll save money building a deck the cheap way?

Or, you could follow the advice of deck builders across the country who use both deck fasteners with the best deck screws. If the pros buy deck hardware that makes deck building easier, shouldn't you? Spending a few extra dollars to ensure that your hardwood deck gets built correctly will not only save you money in the short run, it will also save you time, energy and money in the long term too. After all, wood decking doesn't stay the same. Over the course of time, hardwood decking contracts and expands as the weather changes and as it ages. Even if you're lucky enough to install a deck with cheap screws, if they break, you'll have to spend both time and your hard-earned resources maintaining and repairing your broken deck.

Ultimately, it's your deck. Hopefully, this advice has geared you toward making the process simpler, easier, and a lot smoother.




Learn more about deck fasteners and deck screws.





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2012年1月18日 星期三

Demo Your Deck Or Just Replace Some It?


Most likely your structural parts are in decent shape and safe for your guests. If that is the case, then all you have to do is replace your existing deck or certain bad boards and rails and stairs thereby saving considerably in comparison to a complete deck rebuild.

So just how can I tell if my deck is still in good structural shape?  Can I remodel my present deck with long lasting composite decking and rails?  These questions will be answered along with practical tips.

Expect to spend more than a few weekends to finish your project.  What is nice though, is that you can work at your project in sections thereby not disturbing the household, or making it very inconvenient, but be sure you block off or lock  your entry doors that open onto the deck to ensure everyone's safety till you are finished.  Tools that are needed for the project include a 4 foot level or bigger, screw gun, circular saw, measure tape, carpenters square, and a miter saw for accurate cuts on angles and rails.  For demo work, you'll need a sledgehammer, pry bars, and you may have to curt some wood boards in half to make it easier to pry off and easier for disposal.

First lets discuss if your deck should be completely remodeled; 

1. Lets start from the ground up. Check the footings, look to see if your upright posts are warped or the deck itself above the footings looks warped.  If it looks warped, your footings may not be very deep into the ground.  To ensure a good footing, you can replace them with deeper ones, by digging right next to the old footing, and pour a new cement footing.

 2. Next examine the posts themselves, and all of the framing, to see if the wood is sound, not rotted or badly cracked.  To check for rot use a sharp tool such as a screwdriver or pointed tool.  Probe for soft spongy wood.  If found you should replace the wood at least up to one foot each way past the rotted area to ensure you have removed the rotted piece.

It's best then to replace the rotted wood with pressure treated wood of the same dimension.  Never use cedar or redwood to frame a deck.  If your deck is framed in that material, it's best to tear it down and start over, since these woods are not recommended for framing due to their ability to take the load.

To check your structural integrity of the frame, make a drawing of your deck, the sizes of the lumber, and the spans of all major pieces.  This is for you to take to the Building department for an inspector to see.  By doing so you will know if your deck frame is  structurally sound and the spans are adequate and  safe for the existing load of the deck.  You can apply for a building permit too and get an on-site inspection for further safety reasons.

4. Other building considerations:  When using lag screws which in this case, bolt into the ledger between your joists into the house or structure, use ½ inch lag screws.  Sometimes the Building department for only require 3/8 inch, so ask your local Inspector.

5. It's required that all joists be attached at the ends with a metal joist hanger.  Make sure that each hanger is nailed properly through the guide holes with hander nails, not roofing nails.  Next check you metal flashing that is usually found behind the deck ledger, which is attached to your house or structure from which the joists run out.  There must be flashing behind this deck ledger at the bottom and over the wood siding.  If it is not there, you need to add it so water does not accumulate in the cracks and sits against the structure causing wood rot.

6. Unleash the demo crew. Actually it doesn't take too long to demo a deck.  Now it's time to demo the old deck, assuming now that the frame is in good shape.  You start with knocking out the old railing with a sledgehammer.  If you are going to reuse any of the wood, you will have to plan to remove it by first removing the nails or screws carefully to reuse it.  After the railing is removed, start removing the old decking boards.  If you have ordered a dumpster then all the nails and lumber will obviously go into the dumpster so your yard will not be a mess and a potential injury area. As far as nails in the old wood, don't bother removing nails or screws if you are not going to reuse this wood, just throw it away into the dumpster.  For wood that has lag screws in them such as posts, you may have to loosen the bolts or screws to remove this wood. 

7.  Next remove the deck boards.  Unscrew them or pry them loose, using a crowbar, flat bar and a large pry bar, starting at one end to the other. Start the removal process opposite your structure or house so to have an easy way off the deck.  If nails were used, there will usually be left some nails showing on the joists which will need pulling out.  If your deck was originally screwed down, this will take more time to remove them.  If the head is stripped, here are some tips.  Use a Phillips head that is new and fits perfectly in to the screw head.  If impossible to remove and the head is somewhat up above the boards, you can use vice grips on the head and turn the screw out.  Another way is to use a saws-all with a metal cutting blade and cut the head off, the deck board will just pull out of the leftover screw as you are prying the board out.  Or try drilling through the head removing most of it and then pry the deck board over it.  Any leftover screws  on the joists will break off by using a hammer to bang it back and forth until it breaks off.

Soon all you have left is the original deck frame, and it's ready for the new decking and railing.  Be sure to replace anything that looks not sound on your steps for safety reasons.  Enjoy!




Darrell Suchocki invites you to benefit form his 25 years of experience in the construction trades as a builder and outdoor decking installer. See his website at http://decks-n-floors.com/ for comprehensive information about building decks and differences of composite decking vs wood decking. Also find pertinent information on the different brands of composite decking, vinyl and plastic, plus much more. All to make better home improvement buying decisions. Plus see other articles related to the home construction trade. http://decks-n-floors.com/





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2012年1月17日 星期二

Decks - Wood Versus Composite


This situation has changed quite a bit in the past decade or so. If you are considering installing or having an outdoor deck installed, there are some very important factors to consider. My opinion has changed considerably since I built my first deck many years ago. At that time the general consensus was wood was king. You just couldn't beat the texture, smell, warmth of real wood. That is still true to a degree, but not so much today. Composite materials didn't have a very good reputation, especially in the areas of cost, durability and appearance. Most of us thought "It just doesn't look good." or "It looks cheap."

Now, I must admit that if you use your common sense and look at the facts, composite decking materials will win hands down every time as the material of choice. It's hard to let go of tradition sometimes, but you have to adapt to the better way when it is indeed better, not just "the new thing" to come along.

There are some undeniable negative aspects in using wood for these types of projects. Wood definitely needs to be?protected one way or another, especially when exposed to the elements. Even if the wood has been pressure treated to make it more resistant to moisture damage, it will still need to be?sealed or kept covered to diminish deterioration to any degree. A lot of time and money can be?involved in re-sealing?and maintaining the appearance of?even high quality hard wood. Wood is pretty much prone to warping and twisting, often resulting in an unattractive appearance or even worse, unsafe conditions. The popular use of galvanized fasteners can also increase the unsafe factor due to the chemical reaction of the products used in the pressure treating process and the material used in the galvanizing process. In other words, the galvanized fasteners (bolts, nuts, washers, nails and screws) will break down,?sometimes after just a couple of years.

Now, on the other hand, the improvements in the composite materials over the past decade or so have been impressive. A good variety of colors, density, and textures are now available, making it a challenge to come up with the final?selection. The material are much more durable, and if you go with the better quality products, they are mildew resistant, more color fast (less fading), and have non-slip textures. The initial?cost may be?a bit more ranging usually 1.5 to 3 times more, but you have to keep in mind the money saved on maintenance, repair and safety. It's pretty hard to get a splinter in your foot or hand from a composite material! And last, but not least,?no trees are?cut down in the manufacturing of the composite materials although saw dust is combined with other materials in many composites..

So the bottom line is?that?I recommend that you go composite, go green.








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Decking Made Easy With Ipe


If you are reading this article, than you may be looking for a new deck. If this is the case, than you must be bombarded with the different choices that are available for decking material. There are three major competitors; treated lumber, composites and hardwood lumber. They all have their pro's and con's. When weighing out the differences you will see why the choice is easy. Ipe decking has superior qualities that make it easy for you.

Treated lumber is probably the cheapest choice. The problem is it is treated with chemicals that are harmful for the environment and most importantly for you and your family. The longevity of the treated woods is about 10-15 years with annual maintenance and may be less in the harshest environments. Splintering and rot are some complaints in as little as 2-3 years. This lumber will be relatively easy to install but will require sealing and regular maintenance.

Composite lumber is somewhat mid of the line and can be very high priced depending on manufacturer and color selection. This material is a combination of plastic composites and wood fibers. This product is heavily marketed as the big corporations are spending their money on pushing that composite decking requires no sealer and will last forever. These are false statements. Composite decking has a history of problems with staining and color fading. The wood fibers that are mixed in the plastic has an environment for mold and fungus growth and some decking products have warped with the heat exposure. De-lamination has been reported in as little as 9 months after installation. Warranty will only cover the materials thus creating more labor with removal and re-installation. As for maintenance, the warranty is not valid with out regular maintenance of the decking. Sealing the deck with a preservative would be the way to insure a resistance to fungus and mold.

Now let's examine Ipe decking. Ipe wood is 3x's as hard as oak with a fire rating class A same as concrete and steel and slip resistance rated above the coefficient of friction for commercial applications. The hardwood is so dense it is resistant to mold and fungus. No worries about chemicals, Ipe is also insect and rot resistant. Ipe has been used in several commercial application due to its strength and natural beauty. Those who have environmental concerns about deforestation can rest assured that there are governmental and private organizations that monitor forests specifically for practices and procedures. The forests in Brazil where Ipe is predominantly exported from has government implemented regulations that utilize selective harvesting and responsible forestry practices with severe penalties for forest owners that do not comply. FSC certified forests are now growing at a rapid rate and requires annual audits and compliance for responsible forestry. These types of systems in place will ensure that the forests stay in place rather than get burnt down for cattle gazing and agricultural cash cropping. This also ensures that jobs remain in place for the people that need them with the natural resources that they rely on. The life expectancy of Ipe decking is average 50 years with up to 100 years with maintenance. Pricing for this deck is more than treated lumber but when faced with having to replace and re-install in as little as 10 years, this hardwood is less expensive over time.

The choice is easy when comparing the information and when you look at the difference. Decking should be installed and than enjoyed for the lifetime of the home. Put something in you know will last, has no chemicals and you can enjoy without all the maintenance requirements.




Rosi Lehr is a contributing writer for Advantage Trim & Lumber Co.
Ipe Decking





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Decking Materials - What the Deck?


The most commonly known decking material is wood. Depending on where you are geographically located you may chose redwood, cedar or pine. More recently, woods such yellow cedar from Alaska or hardwoods from Malaysia have been imported for a more luxurious (and expensive) look. Choosing wood for your deck provides a lot of options as wood can be stained or painted to match your home. The biggest issue with wood decks is that it is not completely moisture resistant, and over time could rot if not properly taken care of.

Unfortunately, many of the types of wood are naturally inclined to warp or twist overtime as well. There are chemical treatments to prevent deterioration but with a health cautious society the public opinion of chemical treatments have declined. Additionally, wood decks require annual maintenance and staining which would can be time consuming and difficult to match. However, despite the costs and minor issues choosing a wood deck can be a very beautiful addition to your home.

A second popular option is known as composite, a marriage of synthetic plastic and real wood fiber. The composite material is composed of many recycled elements and therefore environmentally friendly. Composite decking is becoming very popular because of its durability, long life, and the ability to choose products that are smooth or have wood like grooves that provide a more natural look. Unlike wood this form of construction material does not splinter and most importantly does not require the high levels of maintenance like wood. The large variety available from different manufacturers is a positive and appealing trait, as usually the main difference between choices is the ratio of chemicals that affects durability and price.

A final option for decks is vinyl, which is very durable, affordable, and like composite has a long life. There is no wood in this product and is usually a completely manmade manufactured product. The finishes available do offer variety and choice, and wood still can be imitated. This option is often popular with safety conscious families as the finish is given a slip resistant treatment that helps to prevent accidents during rainfall.

Overall it is important to research the types of decking material to see what will best fit your needs and help achieve the look you want. Often, convenience and lower long term maintenance means higher initial costs, so be careful to pick what you want as well as what fits into your budget. Do your research and before you know it you will have a beautiful addition to your home that you will be able to enjoy for years to come.




Many websites provide additional information on the topic of home decking options. One such site worth visiting is http://www.paradisedecking.com.

Matthew Eddington independently author's articles for WebDrafter.com, Inc. http://www.webdrafter.com for search engine marketing. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those solely of the author, and not of any other person, company, or organization. No guarantee or warranty, express or implied, is made regarding the accuracy, fitness, or use of the content herein.





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2012年1月16日 星期一

Decks vs Porches - What's the Difference?


Some houses have porches. Some have decks. Some have both.

But what's the difference between decks and porches, anyway? Is it just that one is on the back of your house and one is on the front? What happens if the porch wraps around to the back of the house? Or is it the deck that's wrapping around to the front?

Here's the thing about decks: It doesn't matter whether they're on the front or the back, whether they're called "decks" or "porches." A deck is a sure way to add beauty, value and class to any home.

Decks can be anything. They can be places to fire up the grill, or for jumping into your pool. They can be big or little. Simple or ornate.

It's this versatility that makes trying to differentiate between porches and decks a fruitless affair.

Think about it: There's no end to the possibilities. Here are just a few ideas.

Gazebos. Adding a gazebo to your decking project is a great way to add festivity to your backyard. Decks with gazebos installed in them are the perfect place for parties, cool spring nights, and, if possible, Dixieland jazz bands.

Cabanas. Why not add a roofed- and screened-in area to your new deck? Well-built decks can support some pretty impressive architecture, so there's no reason not to build a structure that'll keep the bugs out as it beautifies your home. It'll also give your home a great tiki feel that'll make it seem just a bit warmer in the winter.

Tree Houses. Who says decks are limited to houses? Nobody, that's who! Now's the perfect time to add a flight of stairs and some decking to that Southern live oak in your backyard. The versatility of decks means there's no end to the possibilities.

Multiple Levels. Your new deck can stretch from the second floor of your home to the first, with a few landings in between for creative uses, like game tables or swinging benches.

Garden Boxes. Wouldn't it be nice to be able to step right out onto your deck whenever you needed some fresh herbs for that tomato sauce you're stewing up? You can make a garden box or a small tree arbor out of the very decking material you're using to build your deck.

Dining Areas. A deck that extends from the dining room or kitchen is an easy way to add elegance to any dinner party. Imagine treating your guests to a view of the outdoors, instead of the four walls of your dining room. And like the garden boxes we mentioned earlier, you can make tables and chairs to match your decking material.

Decks n' Docks. If you're lucky enough to have waterfront property, you may be able to extend your deck into the water. It'll take some creative building and some elbow grease - building into a muddy bank is rarely anyone's idea of a good time - but you'll never regret it for one second.

So - still wondering about porches? Nah, probably not. Decks are where it's at.

But if you still want to call them porches, we won't tell anyone.




Kevin Ott is a freelance copywriter who lives in California and writes on a variety of topics, including home improvement, food, travel, marketing, and a variety of other topics. One of his clients is Sequoia Supply, the premier supplier of composite wood decking material (to both contractors and do-it-yourself homeowners) in the Northeast.

Visit Sequoia Supply here:

http://www.decksupplies.com





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Decking Increases Your Property Value


Decking can add about 90% cost to value of the home and lots of curb appeal. When it comes time to sell your home, this may be a deciding factor between your home and someone else's house. There are many things to consider when making your decision. Do your neighbors have decks? What type of decking material will you use and its lifetime? Do you live somewhere you can enjoy it? Do you have the room for a deck? What will you use the deck for? Entertaining, cooking or both? It definitely adds living space plus alleviates existing indoor space and is much less expensive than adding an additional room. A decking area will also give you more work space and cooking spaces in some instances.

When clients are looking for a home, the deck makes a big difference in that no additional work needs to be done. Many people end up putting more money into the home after they move in and one of those add on features is decking. No longer considered an option, many families consider it a necessity. Aesthetically pleasing and multi-functional, decks are labor intensive to build and can add up depending on the design you chose. Thus you want to build a deck that will last and to do that you need two things. One is installation. Get a professional to install who has experience and maybe a few referrals for you to check on and maybe go see. Two is materials. Get deck boards that have a history of performance and longevity. Ipe is a known decking board for its beauty, strength and longevity without chemicals. No mold or fungus to worry about. Google the products you want and see what the feedback is. Composite decking doesn't have very good feedback and very little history. Pressure treated is inexpensive but must be maintained and has chemicals that outgas. Longevity is average about 5-10 years compared to Ipe at 40-100 years. You don't want to have to replace your deck anytime during your life if possible as you will have to rip it out and pay to have it reinstalled besides paying for new materials. The downtime is another factor as well as the mess in the yard.

The final outcome is definitely what pays off. Decking can make your home more attractive and can be the final touch to selling if it comes to that. Don't skimp on the project that will serve you years to come and may be the selling feature of your future. In the mean time enjoy the fruits of your work, sit back, relax and maybe put up that pergola.




Rosi Lehr is a contributing writer for Advantage Trim & Lumber Co. Ipe Decking





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