7 Types of Decking

A Guide to the Most Common Types of Decks The International Residential Code (IRC) outlines all of the requirements for decks. The following list is in order from the most important to the least important from a safety perspective. Adding a new deck or repairing an old one can add a new element to your outdoor space. From string lights and lanterns to hanging planters and outdoor rugs, there are many ways to add personality and charm to your space. As you embark on your decking journey, it’s important to bring your vision to life. One way to do this is by creating a mood board that showcases your design aesthetic and inspirations. This can help you visualize color schemes, decking decor, outdoor furniture, landscaping ideas, and even decking accessories that will complement your overall theme.

Use corrosion-resistant fasteners and perform regular inspections to identify and replace affected parts.Multi-tier decks tend to be larger and require a higher budget compared to other styles.Perform seasonal maintenance, such as removing snow accumulation in winter and checking for mold growth in damp climates.If you’ve skipped a season, add $10 per 100 square feet for brightener.Cedar can be found at an approximate price range of $9 to $11.50 per square foot.To help make your decision easier and better understand outdoor deck flooring materials, check out our collection of articles.

About Deck Construction

An entryway deck, often situated at the front of a residence, expands the outdoor living area towards the street, providing an inviting space. In the absence of a front porch, an entryway deck establishes a connection with neighbors or offers a delightful view of the surroundings. Attached decks offer the advantage of being directly connected to your home, providing easy access through an exterior door. If you’re looking for a premium hardwood option, Ipe is an excellent choice. It hails from Central and South America and boasts exceptional resistance to rot, bugs, wear, splintering, and even fire. A popular South American hardwood, ipe is beautiful, naturally resistant to rot, and durable. Pronounced “ee-pay,” this is the most popular of the South American hardwoods. To maintain its teak-like appearance, Ipe must be sealed every year. Not only do they add value to your home, but they also provide an outdoor space perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying the fresh air. Wraparound decks, often referred to as wraparound porches, provide ample outdoor space that can be accessed from multiple entry points in your home. Unlike a porch, a wraparound deck offers versatility in terms of shape and levels, allowing you to create a customized outdoor area that complements your home’s architecture. Many jurisdictions require a building permit to build a deck, so be sure to contact your local building department to learn their permitting and inspection requirements.

Composite Decking: Pros And Cons

Adding a deck near your pool extends the space for sunbathing, dining, and keeping an eye on kiddos in the water. A deck leading to a hot tub, sauna, or steam room offers a spa-like experience. Aesthetic preferences also come into play as some homeowners may want a smaller deck with more greenery while others prefer a larger entertainment space. If you’re wondering how long it takes to install a deck, there are several factors to consider. The type of deck you should choose will depend on what you plan on using it for and the climate in your area. As we move towards a more sustainable future, it’s no surprise that decking and outdoor living are following suit. With eco-friendly materials and practices, you Additional resources can reduce your impact on the environment while still enjoying a beautiful outdoor living space. Now that you’ve added fencing or screening to your deck for more privacy, it’s important to ensure the overall maintenance of your outdoor space. Lattice screens are another popular option for adding privacy to your deck. Made from wood or PVC materials, lattice screens create an attractive barrier between you and prying eyes. Modern chemical treatments are not as toxic as ones used in the past, so PT decking doesn’t pose the same environmental risks, but they aren’t zero. Once the sine qua non of decking, redwood is now available only on the West Coast. It is even more lightweight than cedar, straight-grained, and easy to work. Let our years of experience help you in bringing your outdoor space to life. If you have a large backyard, you could build a deck that’s detached from your home. This is a floating deck level that’s accessed by a path or walkway. These decks are perfect for creating usable areas on your property that have poor drainage. Decking material made from PVC is 100% recyclable and won’t stain, rot, or fade. It’s the most affordable option, but it’s also obvious that your deck is made from plastic. Fully repairing a deck, especially if structural repairs are necessary, is usually best left to professionals. If you try, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any joist hangers, connectors, and screws or nails that you install. Similar to pressure-treated wood, cedar requires regular maintenance. But if you select quality cedar and provide annual refinishing, you can expect your cedar deck to outperform standard pressure-treated wood decking. In general, the word “composite” means different materials combined to create a new finished product. Composite decking is made from a blend of plastic and wood fibers.