Why Airflow Under Your Deck Matters More Than You Think

TimberTech Coastline Vintage PVC Skirting web

When homeowners plan a new deck, they usually spend most of their time choosing decking materials, picking out railings, and deciding how big they want their deck to be. There’s one important detail many people overlook: airflow underneath the deck. It might not sound like a big deal, but poor airflow can shorten your deck’s …

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Ipe Siding vs. Thermally Modified Wood Siding: Which Is Better?

Ipe siding vs thermally modified

If you’re looking for real wood siding for a high end home, you’ve probably come across both Ipe and thermally modified wood. For starters, Ipe has served outdoor projects for decades and has earned a reputation as one of the toughest exterior woods you can buy. Thermally modified wood, on the other hand, takes a …

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What Is Rainscreen Siding and Why Are Architects Using It?

cumaru rainscreen4

Rainscreen siding has become increasingly popular on modern homes and commercial buildings. If you’ve seen wood siding with clean lines, deep shadow gaps, and a slight space between the siding and the wall, there’s a good chance you were looking at a rainscreen system. The basic idea is pretty simple. The siding sits away from …

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Deck Joist Spacing: 12″, 16″, or 24″ On Center?

deck building web

When building a deck, 16 inches on center is often considered the standard joist spacing. However, that may not be the right spacing for every decking material or installation. The thickness and type of decking you’re using can change the requirements. A thicker hardwood board, for example, may be able to span 24 inches between …

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Ipe Decking Grades Explained: What Should You Actually Look for When Buying Ipe?

cali new mill pic web

Start shopping for Ipe decking and you’ll probably see terms such as Premium, Select, First Grade, FAS, Clear, B-Grade, Rustic, and Select Mill Run. Sounds pretty straightforward, right? Well, not exactly. The problem is that those terms don’t always mean the same thing from one lumber supplier to another. One company’s “Premium” Ipe may look …

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Can You Build a Deck in Cold Weather? Temperature Limits for Wood, Composite & PVC

deck maintenance shoveling snow

Most people think of deck building as a spring and summer job. Then, once the temperature drops, the tools go into the garage, the ground freezes, and deck season seems to end. But does it really have to? Well, not necessarily. And I’ll tell you, I’ve never been a big believer in letting the calendar …

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