Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!
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 …
When building a deck, every detail matters—especially when it comes to protecting the structural integrity of your investment. One often-overlooked but critical component is butyl tape, a self-adhering, waterproof flashing tape designed to shield your deck’s substructure from moisture and rot. Let’s discuss what butyl tape is, why it’s essential for your deck joists, and …
In recent years, the decking industry has witnessed a significant shift in homeowner preferences, with metal deck framing emerging as a popular alternative to traditional pressure-treated lumber. This growing demand is driven by a combination of durability concerns with modern wood treatments and the superior longevity offered by metal options. Today, there are two primary …
If you’re planning a deck project in 2025, you might want to brace yourself for some news: imported steel deck framing is about to get hit with tariffs that could increase prices by 25% or more. A significant portion of steel deck framing comes from Asia, and these new tariffs will likely drive up costs …