Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!
When homeowners and contractors start comparing wood finishes, one of the most common questions we hear is: “Is traditional oil better than WiseCoat®?” The truth is – it depends. Each product performs differently based on your goals, environment, and the type of deck you have. Penetrating Oil (Like Ipe Oil®) Penetrating oils are the classic …
Tropical hardwoods like Ipe, Cumaru, Tigerwood, and Plantation Teak are some of the most durable decking materials available. They resist rot, insects, and moisture, and many even carry a Class A fire rating. That density, however, makes them a little tricky when it comes to finishing. Film-forming sealers that work on softwoods often can’t bond …
A beautiful deck starts with proper care. Whether your deck is hardwood, softwood, or composite, a consistent maintenance routine can extend its lifespan and keep it performing at its best. At AdvantageLumber.com, we want your deck to look exceptional year after year, and using the right maintenance products makes all the difference. Below are the …
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 looking to cozy up your outdoor space with an area rug, you might be wondering about the potential downsides—specifically, whether it could lead to rot on your deck. The short answer is that it depends on your deck’s material, but in many cases, an outdoor rug can indeed contribute to moisture-related issues that …
1. The All-Too-Common “Paint It and Forget It” Myth When a weather-worn deck starts to look tired, many homeowners reach for a gallon of solid-color (opaque) latex paint, convinced a thick film will lock out the elements for good. Unfortunately, the opposite is true. Painting a deck may give you a uniform color—but it also …
When it comes to building outdoor structures like decks, pergolas, or furniture that need to withstand the elements and pesky critters like termites, not all woods are created equal. Some species stand head and shoulders above the rest due to their natural durability, strength, and resistance to rot and termites. In this post, we’ll discuss …