AdvantageLumber Blog - Page 103 of 155 - Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!

What is the Lacey Act?

June 7, 2023December 9, 2013 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

The oldest wildlife protection statute in the U.S. is the Lacey Act. Enacted in 1900 and named after John F. Lacey, the Lacey Act was created to fight against illegal trafficking in wildlife, fish and even some plants. In 2008, the Lacey Act was expanded to include the certain logging practices and all plants. It …

How to Properly Acclimate Decking and Siding

March 31, 2022December 6, 2013 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

All wood breathes, no matter what kind it is. The fibers that make up the wood absorb and release moisture. It’s required that before you begin installation, you allow the decking to acclimate to your local environment. This helps prevent large expansion and contraction of the wood once it’s installed. The proper way to acclimate …

Deck Inspection: Railings and Stairs

December 16, 2014December 6, 2013 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

Broken railings and stairs are a leading cause of deck related injuries. Years ago, there weren’t any codes to adhere to when constructing these elements. Most railings were simply nailed without any structural support and when people leaned on it, they failed to stay in place. Stairs are also another common area where improper installation and improper fastening is the culprit of injury.

Advantage Rainscreen Siding™ FAQ

June 22, 2022December 5, 2013 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

This post is dedicated to answer our customers frequently asked questions (F.A.Q.s) about our Advantage Rainscreen Siding™ profile. Q: How is Advantage Rainscreen Siding™ better than the traditional siding options? A: Aesthetically, Advantage Rainscreen™ provides a fastener free surface. Advantage Rainscreen™ also provides a much smaller gap spacing than tradition siding profiles which help maintaining moisture and …

What’s the Big Deal About Our FSC® Certified Decking Anyway?

December 16, 2014December 5, 2013 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

When it comes time to purchasing decking material, you need to make sure that you buy from a company with a commitment to sustainable forestry. AdvantageLumber.com is fortunate to be one of those companies that are authorized by the Rainforest Alliance™ to sell FSC® certified decking.

Deckwise™ Extreme Plugs

March 31, 2022December 4, 2013 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

In order to fill holes left by screws, you will need to purchase wood plugs. But if you want to go with the most secure plugs, then the Extreme Plugs is the way to go! These plugs are completely unique since they are milled with tolerance absorbing rings, which make them the safest option. You …

Ipe vs Pressure Treated Pine: A Knock Out

July 12, 2017December 4, 2013 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

When you see these two materials side by side, it's obvious which one is superior. — When you see these two materials side by side, it’s obvious which one is superior.

Doing a full comparison between Ipe and Pressure Treated Pine for decking is like comparing Kobe beef and a McDonald’s beef patty. Pressure treated pine works well as the frame of your decking but not as the decking itself. Pressure treated pine lasts only for about 5-10 years and must be constantly stained and finished. Ipe on the other hand, is an all-natural wood, proven to last over 75 years without any chemical treatment. The Coney Island boardwalk was in service since the 1940s! Boards from that landmark boardwalk have been reclaimed and reused for many applications from patio furniture to indoor flooring.