Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!
From the looks of it, it’s safe to assume that Doug forgot to contact his local building department to check his plans. If he had, he probably wouldn’t look so upset.
To avoid Doug’s fate, it’s important that you know what parts of your deck building plan need to be up to your local building codes.
Here are some critical parts of the deck construction process that you should pay close attention to.
Be sure to inspect and/or repair the following:
You might have heard about the latest type of composite decking. There are multiple decking brands using what’s known in the plastic industry as “capstock.”
What is Capstock decking? Basically, Capstock is a new kind of composite decking material that combines composites (plastic and wood fiber core) with a “durable” exterior layer of vinyl (PVC). Think of it as a composite and PVC deck hybrid.
Like with most new products in the decking market, the companies that sell this kind of synthetic decking are doing their best by spending millions of dollars to convince you that, FINALLY, this is a composite wood product you can trust. These brands are also trying their best to convince you and deck builders across the country that it is “as good as, or better” than natural hardwood decking in terms of durability and looks.
They even offer a 25-year warranty on their product. However, if you’ve done research, you will learn that, for many, composite decking warranties aren’t worth the paper they’re printed on. Many people complain and have sued these artificial decking companies for not complying with the terms of their warranties.
Ironically, even a reputable publication like Professional Deck Builder says about the latest trend in capstock composite decking, “The lengthy warranties – most up to 25 years – indicate that manufacturers stand behind these products (though perhaps you’ve heard that before).” That’s a direct quote, folks. Even the home-building press is skeptical about these products and for good reason.
Another interesting fact that arose out of our research is the resistance of all composite decking companies to disclose the chemical makeup of their new decking materials. In fact, when FineHomebuilding Magazine was conducting their own research into these products for their article entitled “In Pursuit of the Perfect Plank” the author noted, “None of the manufacturers I spoke with would reveal what was in their proprietary polymer.” Why is that?
As you can see, poor Doug has had an accident while cutting his wood decking. Can that guy ever catch a break!? Clearly, great care must always be taken when it comes to building a deck.
“Of course, I knew that already!” is probably the first thought that pops into your head when you read the above sentence.
But, please don’t be like this guy, or Doug:
Man severs thumb in DIY decking accident
It can happen to anyone. The deck tools and accessories you use to build a deck are meant to be treated with respect. So, here are some helpful tips that will give you peace of mind, while also saving a limb, or two:
Building a deck is not as simple as laying out some boards and using a hammer, glue, and nails. You can’t avoid the physical properties and nature of ALL decking materials.
With that in mind, it’s important to realize that even though decking materials are not living things, they still do “breathe.”
All decking materials expand and contract during the course of the year. When it’s hot and dry, wood contracts. When it’s humid and/or rainy, wood expands. The way decking materials behave should not be lost on anyone. However, even seasoned deck builders can sometimes forget, or be altogether unaware of just how important proper air ventilation is. Proper deck planning will ensure that air can flow freely through the deck and under the joists. Allowing for proper air ventilation will ensure that moisture can evaporate evenly and consistently. Why should you even bother planning for how air moves under a deck?
What’s important to you about owning a deck? Is it the pristine look? Or, is it the sense of relaxation and comfort you get when spending time outdoors with the people you love? Does it help when the decking material you chose is something you know you can depend on? For many Ipe wood deck …
The story you are about to read is true and, unfortunately, all too common…
Doug’s order of wood decking has just arrived. Needless to say, he’s very excited. Even though the sky is clear, Doug knows that it’s going to rain overnight. So he covers it with a tarp so that the wood can be protected prior to installation.
The next day, it’s sunny and clear again. Doug says, “Time to get building!”
He removes the tarp from the pile, “So far, so good.”
As Doug starts prepping the wood, he notices that some boards are a little warped. He thinks to himself, “What gives? I thought this stuff was supposed to be strong!? Oh well, I bought a deck wrench, I’ll just straighten up out. No worries.”
A couple of hours later, Doug’s wife comes out to see how things are going, “Um, honey. What did you do?”
5/4×6 wood decking is a superior sized deck board for many reasons. The extra thickness provides increased structural stability, a more rigid surface, and is ideal for all exterior applications.
5/4 x 6 Ipe wood decking has given many homeowners a solid, reliable surface that hardly ever has to be tended to, if ever. If you’re looking for decking materials for any deck projects that is going to be installed close to the ground, just having that extra 1/4″ is essential. For instance, if you’re about to construct a deck, your contractor should insist on buying 5/4×6 hardwood. Why?