How To Build Better Stairs for Your Deck

Turn your stairway into an accent piece instead of a necessary structure.
Turn your stairway into an accent piece instead of just a necessary structure.

Stair building is an art form of its own. The perfect set of stairs makes a comfortable transition between areas. How often have you been on a deck where the stairs were too narrow, too long, or they just looked odd? Stairs need to be properly built for comfort, safety, and appearance. Remember, every deck is different, and building the correct set of stairs for your particular project enhances the appearance and creates safety for your guests.

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Is Cumaru the New Ipe?

Cumaru isn’t exactly the new kid on the block in the exotic decking neighborhood, but it has recently become the choice of wood for many designers, architects, and contractors. Its versatility, color, and similarity to Ipe has allowed Cumaru to be used for residential and commercial applications. Cumaru is very comparable to Ipe, differing by …

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Brazilian Hardwood Decking

Natural beauty and elegance should not be limited to the indoors only. We believe comfort and beauty should be extended outdoors to create an escape from daily life. Our lumber is used by architects for commercial and residential projects because of its beauty and incredible durability.

This gorgeous ipe and Garapa deck will last for year with no chemical treatment.
This gorgeous Ipe and Garapa deck will last for years with no chemical treatment.

Hardwoods: Beauty in Every Board

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Do You Need Frost Footings For Your Stairs?

Frost footings help keep post movement down, whether it's on your deck posts or stair posts.
Frost footings help keep post movement down, whether it’s on your deck posts or stair posts.

Traditionally, deck stairs land directly on a patio made of concrete, stone, or a material other than soil to prevent rot and decay. These landings can shift freely with frost movement. Frost movement is the rise and fall of the soil due to underground water freezing and expanding. Recently there have been some concerns regarding frost movement and the stair’s ability to withstand the fluctuations. Typically, stairs have more freedom of movement than the deck, but some builders argue the stairs should be supported just like the deck. This topic is a grey area because it all depends on each deck’s situation.

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The Environment and Your Decking

AdvantageLumber.com is committed to responsible forestry.
AdvantageLumber.com is committed to responsible forestry.

Preserving the rainforest is a concern shared by companies, countries, and individuals all over the world. The rainforests are a unique niche in which an abundant array of species live and thrive. Not only is the rainforest a habitat for animals and wildlife, but it also provides an abundant amount of oxygen to our atmosphere. Unfortunately, because of economic and political pressures, ecological priorities are often pushed aside.

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Gazebo vs. Pergola

Gazebos and pergolas have been around for hundreds of years. Both pergolas and gazebos give decks and backyards a new perspective that is pleasing to the eye and practical.

This gazebo, made out of Ipe, is a gorgeous addition to this home.
This gazebo, made out of Ipe, is a gorgeous addition to this home.

Gazebos are covered areas, usually hexagonal in shape, that offer a complete roof and closed off surroundings. Gazebos at one point were thought of as summerhouses or pavilions. Their privacy and distance from the main home allows them to have an aura of being a home away from home.

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Deck Builder Digest: How Deck Builders Can Use Pinterest to Build their Business

AdvantageLumber.com on Pinterest
Check out how we use Pinterest to inspire and educate!

Pinterest is a social media network that grows extremely popular daily.  The bulk of Pinterest content are images that range from recipes and crafts, to inspirational quotes and design.

With 70 – 80 % of the users being female and the ages of 25 to 34, this is a great, FREE way to promote your services to a new audience. The users on Pinterest are also 70% more likely to spend more money than users referred from other networks. So, before you start your marketing campaign with Pinterest, make sure you follow these great tips to get the most out of this free marketing!

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