Decks

Decks create a unique space to be with friends and family. Proper planning and a little forward thinking can go a long way when it comes to the functionality and the appearance of your new deck. Our expertise will help you understand how to maximize your dollars by designing your deck with efficient use of materials, long term cost of maintenance and upkeep while enhancing the overall look of your home.

Getting Started On Your Deck!

On our site you will be able to explore many of the most common decking options. We recommend that you begin by creating a couple check list. We have a printable check list for decks. Start by printing it off and then answer the questions accordingly to the best of your knowledge. Chances are, like most people you won’t know what products you want yet. After printing off our check list go through and figure out what products will best meet your needs. Then from that list you know where to focus your product research. At this point it beneficial to narrow down to a couple products that you do like. Don’t fret if you don’t know all the answers yet were here to help.

Tip: As you descend on this page the questions on the checklist will be in line with the content and pictures of the page.

SOFT WOOD DECKING:

Treated Decking
Cedar Tone Decking
Cedar Decking

Treated/Cedar tone deck

Cedar Deck

COMPOSITE DECKING:

Deckorators
TimberTech
Fiberon

Timber teck

Timber tech

EXOTICS:

Massaranduba (Brazilian Redwood)
Cumaru (Brazilian Teak)
Tiger Wood
Ipe (EE-Pay) (Brazilian Walnut)

IPE

TigerWood

RAILING:

Wood Railing
Aluminum Railing
Composite Railing
Cable Rails

Screen Rooms
Pergolas
Awnings

FAQS/FORMS

Listed below are a number of questions that we are frequently asked and would like to know when quoting your new deck addition.

How often do I have to stain my deck if it is wood?

There’s not really a good answer because there are so many variables that you have to factor. Typically a treated or cedar deck will need restained every 3 to 5 years if you apply a quality sealant.

Why would somebody chose to use cedar over treated lumber?

There are several reasons that people choose to use cedar over treated lumber.

Cedar is naturally insect and rot resistant.
The chemicals used to treat wood can be toxic.
Cedar is less likely to twist or warp.

Why should I use composite decking opposed to natural wood?

The easy answer is life expectancy and maintenance. Like all things not all composites are created equal. There are cheap composites that wouldn’t last as long as a wood deck. If you’re considering going for a premium deck make sure it’s with a reputable manufacture that will be around to honor it’s warranty.

What type of life expectancy should I expect from my deck?

Assuming the deck is installed correctly it will vary depending on the frequency of preventive maintenance and the materials the deck is made from.

What are some critical issues I should know to look for to ensure that my deck is being built to or above industry standards?

Z-BAR flashing over the ledger board. The ledger board connects the deck to the house and the flashing needs to cover this and extend up under the siding. Special spacers can be used on certain projects to push the ledger board away from the siding when the flashing is not an option.
Post Base: These are installed to ensure that the bottom of the posts, which are your main supports, don’t rot away. They keep the wood at a minimum of 1 inch off the concrete so the post can dry out after it rains.
Fasteners: It is crucial that the correct fasteners are used for their intended purpose.
Railing height should be at a minimum of 36” for residential and 42” for a commercial application.
Balusters should be spaced to a maximum of 4”, but are typically set at 3.5” apart to exceed code.