How Buying Direct from the Mill Saves You Money on Home Renovation Projects During August

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August can be an interesting month in the building material business, especially for those starting Home Renovation Projects. I’ve always thought August tends to sneak up on people. One minute you’re talking about Memorial Day projects, and the next minute somebody’s asking whether they can get their deck finished before Labor Day. For one thing, …

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6 Ways to Save Money on Your New Deck Build (Without Cutting Corners)

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Building a new deck is one of the best investments you can make in your home, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend more than necessary. The key is knowing where to save money and, just as importantly, where you should never cut costs. Many homeowners focus only on the initial price tag, but …

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How Much Does It Cost to Build a Deck in 2026?

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Building a deck is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home. It expands your living space, boosts curb appeal, and can increase your property value by up to 70% of the project cost. But with material prices fluctuating due to supply chain dynamics and inflation, many homeowners are asking: How much …

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The Most Common Deck Building Myths That Have Been Debunked

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When planning a new deck, homeowners often rely on advice that’s been passed down for decades. The problem? Much of that advice is outdated. Building materials, treatments, and best practices have changed significantly—and many long-standing deck building “rules” simply no longer apply. At AdvantageLumber.com, we work with homeowners, builders, contractors and architects every day. We …

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Deck Ventilation 101: Why Airflow Matters for Deck Longevity

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When planning or building a deck, most homeowners focus on the decking material, railing style, or overall design. But one critical factor often gets overlooked: deck ventilation. Without proper airflow, even the highest-quality decking—whether it’s Ipe, Cumaru, Tigerwood, Garapa, composite, or PVC—can suffer premature failure. In this guide, we’ll break down why deck ventilation matters, …

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13 Common Deck Building Mistakes to Avoid for a Sturdy, Long-Lasting Deck

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Building a deck is an exciting way to enhance your outdoor living space, whether you’re dreaming of summer barbecues, cozy evenings under the stars, or a relaxing spot for morning coffee. But without careful planning and execution, your dream deck can turn into a costly nightmare. From structural failures to safety hazards, deck-building mistakes can …

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