Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!
At AdvantageLumber.com, we know that building or upgrading your deck is an exciting project, but sometimes life gets in the way, and your decking materials might need to sit for a while before installation. Proper storage is key to keeping your investment in top shape—whether you’re working with premium hardwoods like Ipe, Cumaru, or Tigerwood, …
Choosing the right deck board pattern can completely transform the look and feel of your outdoor living space. While many homeowners focus on decking material and color, the installation pattern plays just as big of a role in the final appearance, durability, and overall value of a deck. Below, we break down the most popular …
When it comes to enhancing the look and functionality of your deck, skirting plays a crucial role. Deck skirting not only hides the unsightly space beneath your deck but also provides a polished, finished appearance to your outdoor living area. However, choosing the right material for deck skirting is essential, especially since it’s often installed …
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 …
Building a deck can transform your backyard into an outdoor oasis, perfect for barbecues, relaxation, and family gatherings. But before you grab your tools and start hammering away, there’s a crucial question to address: Do you need a permit? The short answer is—it depends. In this blog post, we’ll discuss whether a permit is required, …
📦 1. Acclimation: Critical First Step Proper acclimation ensures that the T&G hardwood decking boards remain tight-fitting after installation. Why acclimate?Hardwood decking is a natural material that will expand and contract based on moisture content and temperature. Failing to properly acclimate may result in gapping, buckling, or cupping. How to acclimate properly: 🛠️ 2. Substructure …