Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!
Paige Philipps 
Cold weather does not have to put your decking project on hold. While winter installations come with additional considerations, decking can be installed successfully in colder temperatures when the right materials are used and proper installation practices are followed. Many professional builders install decks year-round. The key is understanding how different decking materials respond to …
When planning a deck, most homeowners focus on board species, color, and layout. One design detail that can significantly elevate the finished look is picture framing a deck. This popular decking pattern adds definition, protects exposed board ends, and gives a deck a clean, polished appearance. What Is Picture Framing a Deck? Picture framing a …
Cost vs. Home Value vs. Enjoyment When homeowners think about improving their outdoor space, adding a deck is often one of the first ideas that comes to mind. But with changing housing markets, higher material costs, and more options than ever, many people are asking the same question in 2026: Is building a deck still …
Homes near lakes, rivers, marshes, and coastal areas offer incredible views—but they also place higher demands on decking materials. Constant moisture, humidity, UV exposure, and, in coastal regions, salt air can accelerate wear and shorten the lifespan of a poorly chosen deck. Selecting the right decking material is not just about appearance. It is about …
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 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 …