Decks: The Ultimate Guide To Materials, Options, And Approaches You’ll also want to prevent access underneath your deck so animals can’t nest there. For areas with intense sun and heat exposures, make https://uploadhub.io/lcSVcVfW7BhU6mW/file sure to use a sealant with UV protectant,” he says. “It differs from a porch in that it’s not enclosed, and it does not extend to the roof of a structure,” Cosby says. Aluminum decking works very well in some situations like around swimming pools, but it has some drawbacks to consider as well. However, unlike PVC decking, it does not give off toxic chemicals as a result of its production. While not a substitute for a professional inspection, here are some things you can look for that might help you determine if your deck presents a significant safety risk. Pros and Cons of Plastic Decking Regular maintenance checks should also be carried out, including cleaning away debris or dirt buildup that can cause slips or falls. Safety guidelines should be followed when using a deck, such as ensuring proper weight limits are adhered to and keeping children supervised at all times. While there are many methods to preserving the lifespan of your decking material, one sustainable approach is through eco-friendly materials and practices. Fortunately, there are several waterproofing solutions available that can help protect your deck from water damage. This system will channel water away from the surface of your deck and prevent it from pooling up underneath. Detached decks are also known as floating decks, island decks, or platform decks. Wraparound decks are ideal for extending your living space and enjoying more than one outdoor view. They can enhance or add entry points to your home and allow you to bask in the sun and shade at different points of the day. However, it’s important to note that some brands may require specific cleaning products or methods. Environmental considerations are important as we all want to reduce our carbon footprint. For this reason, composite decking has become more popular because it is made from recycled materials such as plastic bags or milk jugs. Contact Us Clear View Builders Email: info@clearviewbuildersinc.com Phone: +19164205862 4913 Rio Linda Blvd Sacramento, California, United States 95838 Multi-Tier Deck Redwood and other hardwoods naturally offer unique colors and textures. Cedar has a classic yellowish look, bamboo is durable and sustainable, and mahogany is resilient. Ipe is the most expensive wood option and is highly resistant to rotting, bugs, wear, splintering, and fire. The ideal wood type will vary based on the weather in your area and how wooded your yard is. Both can affect exposure to the sun, extreme weather, and wood-eating bugs that could ruin a wood deck. Side decks often cost less to build than backyard decks because they’re typically smaller. But they still enhance your home's aesthetic and expand your usable outdoor space. When it comes to building a deck, there are certain codes and regulations that must be followed. These safety measures ensure that your deck is structurally sound, durable, and safe for use. Preventing mold growth on your deck is another important part of maintenance. Make sure to keep surrounding plants trimmed back so they don’t impede air flow around your deck, which can lead to moisture buildup and subsequent fungal growth. Styles of decks, such as wraparound, multi-tier, attached, detached, and entryway decks, can be tailored to fit your home’s architectural style and your specific needs.For example, polyethylene plastic and wood fiber deck boards contain wood fibers, such as sawdust.Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.One major benefit is that side decks also offer seclusion, perfect for a hot tub, sauna, or private reading area.Plastic and wood composite decking work well for some people, but there are also reasons why it doesn’t work for everyone. Pressure-treated lumber is one of the most affordable types of decking upfront. This material is widely available, so you can usually find pressure-treated lumber at almost any local home improvement store you visit. Keep in mind that wood requires a lot of upkeep with repainting and restaining, so any kind of wood may be more expensive in the long run than something like PVC decking. Cost Comparison Some popular types of deck lighting include post cap lights, rail lights, and stair lights. These fixtures not only provide necessary illumination but also add an element of style to your deck design. Now that you’ve learned about some of the ways to incorporate built-in features into your deck design, it’s time to think about choosing the right railing system. The railing system not only adds safety measures but also plays a key role in defining the overall style of your deck. The installation process for aluminum decking can also be more complex than with other materials, as special clips or fasteners are often required during assembly. But once installed, homeowners have access to a wide range of design options thanks to the versatility of the material.