A Safer, Longer-Lasting Deck in 5 Easy Steps

It is important to build your deck to code and to maintain it after installation to ensure that it stays structurally sound and safe for you and guests. Here are some quick tips to ensure a secure surface to entertain the ones you love! 1. Monitor Your Deck Exposure to the elements, improper maintenance and …

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Is Hardwood Railing a Safe Choice for Your Family’s Deck?

When your deck railings get old and worn, they start to become weak and dangerous. That is, if you’re your railings are made of anything but hardwood. And I’m willing to bet that when it comes to your family, you want safety. This means that in order to ensure your family and guests stay safe …

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The Slip Resistance of Advantage Ipe Helps Disabled Veterans

The Buggs Island Universally Accessible Launch in Roanoke, Virginia is a kayak launch specifically made for disabled veterans. The purpose of this project was to give disabled veterans and residents a chance for some recreational therapy as well as a good time outdoors. They chose Advantage Ipe™ because of its natural slip resistance. They also …

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Deck Restoration Products – Saving Grace, or Lipstick on a Pig?

If your car looked like this, would you just paint it or purchase a new one?
If your car looked like this, would you just paint it or purchase a new one?

Every so often new decking products come on the market. These products always claim to be the “perfect solution,” and the last item you’ll ever need. While some products really do live up the hype, there are still plenty that fall short of their claims.

Over the years there has been an increasing number of homeowners using deck coating products to salvage their rickety old pressure treated decks.  Here’s some interesting things to consider before you decide to paint your deck with these new coating products.

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The 7 Deadly Sins of Deck Building: #6 Sloth

When a company advertises their decking product as “no maintenance,” it’s far from the truth. There is a difference between “no maintenance” and “low maintenance.” Neither one of these mean you can neglect your deck altogether. Being lazy without routine maintenance could just be a recipe for disaster. If you are unsure about the safety …

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The 7 Deadly Sins of Deck Building: #4 Gluttony

When you think of summer, you think of BBQs, holidays, and pretty much outdoor activity that allows you to be gluttonous to the fullest extent. With these outdoor gatherings, there’s almost always a grill or a fire pit involved. Don’t let your celebration of summer eating interfere with grilling and fire safety. You can’t have …

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The 7 Deadly Sins of Deck Building: #3 Lust

So you’ve been contemplating a new deck for a while. You’ve chosen the materials and the basic design, but now it’s time to choose the right contractor. This is the most crucial part of the deck building process. Your desire for your new deck can cloud your sense of good judgement, If this begins to …

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