Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!
One of the best ways to achieve a sleek, modern look on your deck is by using hidden fasteners. Installed between deck boards, these fasteners eliminate the need to drive screws through the top surface, keeping the deck smooth, clean, and free of visible screw heads. The DeckWise® Hidden Deck Fastener System is designed to …
Ipe wood, often hailed as the “king of hardwoods,” is renowned for its unmatched durability, stunning natural beauty, and longevity that can outlast most decking materials by decades. Whether you’re building a luxurious deck, crafting outdoor furniture, or tackling a siding project, Ipe delivers premium performance. But let’s face it—its premium status comes with a …
Hey deck builders, homeowners, and DIY warriors—listen up. At AdvantageLumber.com, we’ve seen thousands of decks over the years, and there’s one mistake that keeps popping up like a bad weed: completely sealing off the underside of your deck with skirting. It looks clean. It looks modern. It hides the “ugly” underbelly of your beautiful new …
Hey there, fellow wood lovers! If you’ve ever wandered into a lumber yard or scrolled through decking options online, you’ve probably bumped into Brazilian Ash. It’s that warm, honey-toned beauty that lights up a room or turns a backyard into a tropical escape. But let’s cut to the chase—one question I get all the time …
One common question we hear from customer about Ash wood is: Is ash a hardwood or a softwood? Spoiler alert—it’s a hardwood, and we’re here to explain why that matters, plus spotlight some of our top-selling ash products that are revolutionizing home improvement in 2025. Understanding Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: Where Does Ash Fit In? First …
Ipe wood is renowned for its durability, rich color, and natural resistance to the elements, making it a top choice for outdoor decks. However, over time, exposure to weather, foot traffic, and environmental factors can lead to dirt buildup, mildew, and a faded appearance. If you’re looking to restore your Ipe deck to its former …
If you’re building or repairing a deck, you’ve likely wondered: Can you use aluminum flashing with pressure-treated lumber? The short answer is yes—but with some important caveats to ensure longevity and safety. At Advantage Lumber, we get this question a lot, especially from homeowners and builders focusing on ledger flashing. The ledger board, which attaches …