What Is Decking?

A deck can be a gathering place for family and friends or a quiet retreat for meditation and relaxation. Decks can also accommodate a variety of activities like games, cooking and dining.

Cedar is a durable wood that takes stain or paint well, giving homeowners more control over its appearance. It also has natural oils that help improve its resistance to rot and pests.

Design

Decking is a popular outdoor structure used for dining, entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the surrounding landscape. It’s commonly attached to a house, but can also be built as a free-standing structure. Decks are constructed with a variety of materials, including wood and composites. The best decking design for your needs will depend on your budget, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences.

Deck designs should reflect the terrain and weather influences that affect the yard. For example, if you plan to build a deck on sloping terrain, it may be necessary to reinforce the structure. If you want to use hardwoods, make sure that they are harvested sustainably.

When drilling a deck, always follow general core drilling SOP. Also, mark low points if possible. This can be done by visual inspection, or by cross polarizing the reaction in the low area. If you cannot determine a low point, consider using ground penetrating radar. This can identify reactivity and provide a more accurate picture of the subsurface.

Materials

Decking is the surface that you walk and place outdoor furniture on. It can be made from a variety of materials, including wood or composites. Decking can also include railings and balusters to provide safety and support. Stairs and access points are also important features of a deck.

Before starting the construction of a deck it is important to prepare the site. This includes marking the area to be built and removing grass and roots. This will ensure that the deck blocks sit on compacted, stable soil.

When working with hard species of lumber like ipe, premium carbide tipped saw blades are recommended for cutting. It is also advisable to use fostner or brad point drill bits for drilling. Fresh cuts should be sealed within 24hrs with an end grain sealant. This will prevent moisture penetration and protect the deck from insects and fungus. A good quality Ipe sealant will also slow the fading of the suns UV rays.

Installation

Before you even think about building a deck, check with your local building inspection office to find out what restrictions apply. They will also tell you if a permit is required.

Start by clearing the area where your deck is to be built, including removing grass, weeds, and roots. Clearing the site also gives you a better idea of how big to build your deck and what layout is best for the space.

Next, install the ledger board which connects your deck to the house. Ensure it is securely attached to the framing using the proper fasteners, bolts or screws. Attach flashing, which prevents water from getting behind the framing, by tucking it up under the piece of siding above where the ledger board will go.

Frame the deck using footings, either by pouring concrete into holes or by setting wooden posts in concrete pillars. In cold climates, the footings need to be set below the frost line (which varies geographically). Once the deck is framed, mark the floor joist spacing according to your building plans, typically 16 inches on-center from end to end.

Maintenance

A well-designed and installed deck enhances your living space and adds value to your home. But the structure needs year-round maintenance to look its best and hold up to the elements.

Routine cleaning and prompt damage control keep your deck looking great, but it also reduces the frequency of costly treatments, stains, and resanding. You should also regularly inspect the deck to spot problems before they become more severe.

Use a screwdriver to probe the wood, and pay particular attention to areas that feel soft. This can indicate dry rot and, in some cases, termite infestation.

Wash and stain your deck each spring or fall during mild temperatures to protect it from the sun’s harsh UV rays. Trim nearby trees and bushes to keep them at least 12 inches away from the deck, which helps slow mold, moss, and rot. Add furniture pads to the feet of outdoor furniture to prevent scratches and scuffs. Clean grease, food, and other spills promptly to avoid staining.

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