Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!
When a deck collapses, it almost always starts in the same place: the ledger board. The ledger is the structural connection between your deck and your home. If that connection fails, the deck can separate from the house, often without warning. In most deck collapses, the decking boards and railings remain intact — it is …
A Spring Cleaning Guide for Exotic Hardwood Decks Spring is the ideal time to refresh your hardwood deck. Furniture comes out, pollen accumulates, and sun exposure increases. But it is also when many common cleaning and finishing mistakes happen often without anyone noticing until months later. Follow this seasonal routine to protect your investment, maintain …
When it comes to building a deck that stands the test of time, hardwood decking is often the gold standard. Unlike softer woods or composites that might need replacement after a decade or two, premium hardwoods like Ipe, Cumaru, and Tigerwood can deliver exceptional longevity—often spanning 40 to 75 years or more with proper care. …
When building or renovating a deck, safety and accessibility should always be top priorities. One key element that often comes into play is the installation of graspable ADA-compliant handrails. These handrails are designed to provide a secure grip, making decks safer for everyone, including those with disabilities. But why are they frequently required? In this …
Which Performs Better on Boardwalks, Restaurant Decks, Docks & High-Traffic Spaces? When it comes to commercial decking projects, the stakes are much higher than a typical backyard build. Boardwalks, restaurant patios, hotel pool decks, docks, piers, marinas, and public waterfront spaces often see thousands of people walking across them daily. That level of foot traffic …
Hardwood decking is one of the most durable and beautiful materials you can choose for your outdoor living space. Species like Ipe, Cumaru, and Tigerwood are naturally dense, resistant to rot and insects, and capable of lasting 30–50+ years when installed correctly. Hardwood decking is not pressure treated lumber. It is significantly denser, harder, and …
Deck railings come in more styles than ever before. While some designs are meant to serve as a bold architectural feature, other projects call for the opposite approach. When your deck overlooks water, mountains, woods, or a beautifully landscaped backyard, the goal is often to minimize the railing so the view takes center stage. If …