Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!
Composite decking has become a go-to choice for homeowners who want a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood decking. As composite technology has matured, so have the material options. Each is designed to perform better in certain environments and applications. When people ask, “What is the best composite decking material?”, the answer is rarely one-size-fits-all. …
Boat docks place far greater demands on decking materials than a typical residential deck. Constant moisture, direct sun exposure, foot traffic, and saltwater can quickly expose the weaknesses of the wrong material. Composite decking is often considered for these environments, and Trex is one of the most recognized names in the industry. So, is Trex …
When planning a new deck, homeowners often rely on advice that’s been passed down for decades. The problem? Much of that advice is outdated. Building materials, treatments, and best practices have changed significantly—and many long-standing deck building “rules” simply no longer apply. At AdvantageLumber.com, we work with homeowners, builders, contractors and architects every day. We …
When homeowners think about building a deck, most of the attention goes to the deck boards—the color, the material, the warranty, and how long they will last. While choosing the right decking is important, the most critical part of any deck is the framing underneath. At AdvantageLumber.com, we’ve seen countless decks built with premium materials …
Concrete patios, porches, and walkways are common around homes—but over time, many homeowners want to upgrade the look and comfort by installing decking over existing concrete. While this can be done successfully, not all decking materials or installation methods are suitable for concrete substrates. At AdvantageLumber.com, we regularly get asked whether our hardwood decking can …
When homeowners picture a high-end outdoor space, wide-plank hardwood floors are often part of that vision. The clean lines and bold scale feel refined, intentional, and timeless. That naturally leads to a common question: Can the same wide-plank look work on a deck? While 1×8 deck boards can deliver strong architectural appeal, they behave very …
Deck lighting works best when it is designed with intention. Rather than choosing fixtures first and figuring out placement later, a more effective approach is to think about how you actually use your deck. Is it a space for entertaining? A quiet place to unwind in the evening? A pathway between the house and yard? …