How Thick is 5/4 Decking?

If you’ve ever shopped for decking materials, you’ve probably come across the term “5/4 decking.” This designation often raises questions about what it actually means in terms of thickness. Whether you’re considering wood, composite, or PVC decking, understanding the terminology is crucial to making informed choices for your project. What Does 5/4 Mean in Lumber? …

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Tongue and Groove Deck Boards: The Perfect Choice for Covered Outdoor Spaces

Tongue and groove (T&G) deck boards are a timeless and functional choice for creating seamless and stylish outdoor surfaces. Featuring a system where one board’s “tongue” fits into the adjacent board’s “groove,” T&G decking provides a smooth, gap-free surface that is ideal for certain applications. However, selecting the right type of T&G deck board and …

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What is the Best Wood for a Fence in California?

Ipe Wood Horizontal Fence

When it comes to building a durable, attractive, and long-lasting fence in California, choosing the right wood is crucial. Factors such as climate, budget, and aesthetic preferences play an essential role. Below, we’ll explore the pros, cons, and lifespans of popular wood options for fences in California, including Redwood, Cedar, Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa, Tigerwood, and …

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Will Termites Eat Treated Wood?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask when building a deck, fence, or other outdoor structure is whether termites will eat treated wood. While pressure-treated wood is designed to resist decay, pests like termites can still pose a challenge under certain conditions. Here’s what you need to know. Termites and Treated Wood: What You …

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The Benefits of Using Engineered LVL Deck Beams Compared to Standard Pressure-Treated Framing

Pressure Treated LVL Deck Beams

When building a deck, the choice of framing materials plays a critical role in determining the structure’s longevity, performance, and aesthetics. While pressure-treated lumber has been the go-to material for decades, engineered Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) deck beams are emerging as a superior alternative for many applications. Below, we’ll explore the key benefits of using …

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Tips for Choosing the Best Composite Decking

Trex Rocky Harbor Decking with Composite Railing

Building a deck is an exciting project, whether it’s an extension of your living space, a poolside retreat, or a stylish waterfront dock. Choosing the right composite decking material can make all the difference, especially in terms of durability, comfort, and maintenance. Here are some expert tips to help you pick the best composite decking …

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Trex Deck Framing – Does Trex Offer Rot Resistant Deck Framing?

steel deck framing

A common question among homeowners and deck builders is whether Trex manufactures a composite deck framing system that resists rot, like their composite deck boards. The short answer is no; Trex does not currently offer structural composite deck framing. Most homeowners building a Trex composite deck use traditional pressure-treated lumber for the framing. While pressure-treated …

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