Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!
When planning your dream deck, the framing material you choose forms the literal foundation of your outdoor oasis. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about balancing upfront costs with long-term durability. Read on for a head-to-head comparison of aluminum and wood deck framing, focusing on cost and longevity. At AdvantageLumber.com, we’re proud to offer top-tier aluminum …
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 Much of that advice is outdated.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 …
A deck is only as strong as the structure beneath it. While homeowners often focus on the decking surface itself, the framing system—joists, beams, and ledger boards—does most of the work. Protecting that structure is essential to the long-term performance of any deck, whether it is built with tropical hardwoods, composite decking, or traditional lumber. …
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 …
This deck framing diagram is a detailed illustration that shows and labels each part of a deck. Below the illustration you’ll find a description of each deck framing component. Why Pressure-Treated Wood Deck Framing Lasts Less and Changes in Treatments Pressure-treated wood deck framing no longer lasts as long as it once did due to …
When building a deck, one of the most critical decisions is determining the spacing of your deck joists. The answer to “How far apart should deck joists be?” depends on two key factors: the type of deck boards you’re installing and your local building codes. Let’s break it down to help you make an informed …