Deck building tips and tricks. Discussion about wood and much more!
A well-designed deck is more than just a platform for outdoor furniture. Thoughtfully integrated built-in features can transform a basic deck into a functional and inviting outdoor living space. Unlike freestanding furniture and accessories, built-ins are permanent, space-efficient, and designed to work directly with the structure of the deck. When planned correctly, they improve organization, …
Outdoor living continues to evolve in 2026, and homeowners are thinking bigger than ever. Instead of one large, flat platform, today’s decks are being designed as intentional outdoor living spaces—complete with separate zones for dining, relaxing, cooking, and entertaining. One of the most popular ways to achieve this? Multi-level deck designs. By incorporating different elevations, …
As we settle into 2026, outdoor living spaces are evolving faster than ever. This is transforming backyards into functional extensions of the home. At AdvantageLumber.com, we’re excited to see homeowners prioritizing durability, sustainability, and style in their deck projects. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or a simple upgrade, this year’s trends focus on creating …
When planning a deck, most homeowners focus on board species, color, and layout. One design detail that can significantly elevate the finished look is picture framing a deck. This popular decking pattern adds definition, protects exposed board ends, and gives a deck a clean, polished appearance. What Is Picture Framing a Deck? Picture framing a …
Building your own deck can be incredibly rewarding. You save money on labor, customize the design, and end up with an outdoor space you can truly be proud of. But deck projects are also one of the most commonly misdesigned DIY home improvements—and mistakes can be expensive, unsafe, or both. At AdvantageLumber.com, we work with …
When homeowners picture a high-end outdoor space, wide-plank hardwood floors are often part of that vision. The clean lines and bold scale feel refined, intentional, and timeless. That naturally leads to a common question: Can the same wide-plank look work on a deck? While 1×8 deck boards can deliver strong architectural appeal, they behave very …
Choosing the right deck board pattern can completely transform the look and feel of your outdoor living space. While many homeowners focus on decking material and color, the installation pattern plays just as big of a role in the final appearance, durability, and overall value of a deck. Below, we break down the most popular …