Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!
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 …
Hardwood decking is prized for its strength, beauty, and longevity. Species like Ipe, Cumaru, Tigerwood, Brazilian Redwood (Massaranduba), Garapa, Teak, and Mahogany can last decades—but like any exterior wood product, they benefit from proper maintenance. One step to restoring or preparing hardwood decking is sanding. When done correctly, sanding refreshes the surface, improves appearance, and …
When planning a new deck, it’s completely natural to focus on price. Decking materials can make up a large portion of the overall project cost, and the temptation to choose the least expensive option is strong. Many homeowners are persuaded by low-cost decking materials such as pressure treated pine or imported composite decking with bargain …
When homeowners start researching composite decking, they quickly realize that the term “composite” is used very loosely. Today, it can refer to several different types of synthetic and engineered decking materials, each with its own construction, benefits, and ideal applications. At AdvantageLumber.com, we carry all the major categories of composite and synthetic decking. Below is …
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 Much of that advice is outdated.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 …