Jacquel Yneknoe

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Type Of Woods Best For Your Decking Project

Type Of Woods Best For Your Decking Project

The traditional wooden deck is an excellent addition to your home. However, a well-constructed and spacious decking system is not only an excellent for outdoor entertainment, but it also increases value to your property.

In fact, the wooden deck provides a high ROI of around 80%, which is much higher than composite decks. So, if you decide to sell your house at one point, then you can achieve a higher price. However, you must consider the material, as well as the wood you choose.

While the structure is made of pressure-treated timber, the actual decking can be made of plastic, wood, or a composite material, which combines plastic with wood fibers.

But, when it comes to wood, here are three popular choices that you can choose from.

Redwood

Redwood requires continuous maintenance and application of a sealer every now and then. Additionally, it’s more expensive than other types of wood, considering it grows on the West Coast. But, as a decking material, it’s quite stable, as well as resistant.

Due to its stability, redwood looks great longer, while it has little or no resins, which helps retain the impeccable finish. On the other hand, from an environmental standpoint, redwood decking is made of old trees, but recent statistics indicated that supplies are decreasing.

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The Government is now trying to slow down the deforestation in the tropics and in the U.S., where supplies are now down to 1%.

Cedar

Cedar is a softwood and has been used for decking for decades. Since it’s resistant to insects and rot, many owners decide to use cedar for their decks. However, some people reported that this wood tends to splinter, considering it’s too soft.

But, you can use it for vertical elements, such as fences, pergolas, and planters. However, cutting 250 years old trees can lead to extinction, which can have a negative impact on the environment.

Pressure-treated timber

Same as the previously mentioned one, pressure-treated timber is insect and rot-resistant, but it’s cheaper than cedar and redwood. Additionally, it’s widely used across the country, and sometimes people use it to build a support system for the decks because it is durable.

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However, the problem with pressure-treated timber is that it can be quite unstable, especially the one you buy at a lower price. Warping, shrinking, and twisting is quite common with this type of wood. If you have a chance, you should go for premium lumber that is treated at the mill with water repellents.

Other wooden materials

Teak, ipe, and mahogany are other options you can explore, but they also have pros and cons. While beautiful and long-lasting, mahogany is extremely expensive. Therefore, if you are working on a large decking project, then choosing this type of wood can significantly increase the costs.

However, if you are looking for a bit affordable option, then you can go for teak. It has the same features as mahogany, but it’s not a native tree, and it’s grown on plantations.

Five Reasons To Install A Wooden Deck

Five Reasons To Install A Wooden Deck

Are you one of those people who like to spend a lot of time outside? If that’s the case, then you might want to consider building a deck, which will not only make your home more appealing but provide an additional value.

So, here are a couple of reasons why you should consider building a deck.

Great outdoor space for guests

A deck is a great outdoor space for entertaining and an excellent area if you want to host parties, neighborhood gathering, and even a barbeque. When the weather is beautiful, you can enjoy the sunshine and add furniture for a comfortable living room setting.

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It increases the value of your property

Installing a deck can cost you a bit of money, however, if you decide a sell your home at one point, then you can get a higher price.

In the last couple of years, decks are a sought-after feature in the real estate market, and potential buyers tend to look for houses with decks.

Your home will look better

There are so many different designs you can choose from. Even though it all comes down to your personal preference, you should adjust the look of the decks with the terrain and décor of your home.

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However, some people use decks to boost the existing qualities of the property. In this case, you can select various patterns, shapes, and colors. On top of that, you can decorate the deck according to the season.

The construction is fast

If you are looking for ways to expand your living space, then the deck is one of the fastest options. On the other hand, home additions can take months, which is not the case with a deck.

Additionally, home improvements can disrupt your lifestyle, while decks are less invasive and keep all the mess outside.

The deck will provide you plenty of space

If your home is small and crowded, then the deck can be a great way to expand your property. So, instead of organizing all the family celebrations inside, you can take the party outside.

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On top of that, you can set up furniture here, place potted plants, and even a grill. Also, when you have a deck, then your yard is freed up for other uses.

Price

Compared to other home improvements, a deck can be quite expensive. Even though it can damage your budget, it’s totally worth the investment. Of course, the price can depend on the size, materials, and whether its build by contractors, or it’s a DIY project.

But, if you make a deck from high-quality and durable materials, it will last you longer and offer you years of enjoyment, which can be an excellent return on your investment.

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Best Color For Your Deck

What do you think is the best color for your deck? Do you have something planned in mind? Deck color can boost the appeal and complement your home, but there are a couple of factors you should consider before choosing the right hue.

If this job is done poorly, then your deck can look like a nightmare. Therefore, we have decided to share a couple of tricks with you to help you have the most stunning deck in the neighborhood.

Brown

Brown color boosts the natural warmth and is great if you want to achieve that cozy look and blend with the surroundings. However, you can always experiment with shades and choose from light to dark brown, which is similar to mahogany.

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For example, darker shades offer depth and elegance, while lighter ones open up space. Some browns can be nearly black as coffee, boosting modern and urban vibe more suitable for city homes.

Blue

Blue is a pure coastal color which is quite trendy this year. Even though it comes in many shades, the most popular one is that almost grey, or so-called aqua smoke.

This near-neutral hue causes a calm and soothing sensation and might be a great choice for your deck, as long as it fits the décor.

Another popular option is a bit brighter blue, similar to the Mediterranean, which can make you feel like you are on a beach.

Grey

In the past, grey is often associated with the lifeless space, but, that’s no longer the case. Now grey adds character to your wooden deck and features plenty of variations, from Stonehedge to Ebony Gray.

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People usually use this as a base color for hues such as yellows or reds. Additionally, you can combine black and white with grey to accomplish more sophisticated palate.

Red

Red is another color you can use for your decking project, and it’s more than a traditional redwood stain. Nowadays, this shade brings a feeling of a culture other colors can’t.

For example, rich reds such as Navajo Red evoke Italian culture, while orange like Fiery leans towards Spanish one. Red color encourages people to eat more, and it’s an excellent hue for entertaining since it improves the mood.

Natural

Last but not least, natural colors are quite popular among homeowners. They are similar to cedar or even lighter and work well with country and rustic design. They are a great choice for people who want a clean and minimalistic design.

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How to choose the right color?

There are a couple of features you should consider before selecting the one color. For instance, what’s your home’s exterior palate? If the façade is neutral, light beige, then you won’t choose blue for your deck. All colors should blend well, without creating a visual distraction.

Also, you should think about the tear and wear. Lighter shades require more maintenance than darker ones. On top of that, think about the areas that have more traffic because they need higher protection.

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How to Make Concrete Patio Pavers and a Solid Cedar Deck

The weather condition can be quite harsh and unforgiving; therefore, concrete pavers are a great choice if you are looking for something more durable and weather-resistant. But, to bring a bit of class and warmth to your home, laying out cedar deck over concrete can break up space visually and boost up the look of your property.

However, keep in mind that this is a costly and time-consuming process because you aren’t building one, but two surfaces at the same time. So, here are a couple of necessary steps you should start with.

Make a frame

To install concrete pavers, you first need to make forms which will serve you as a frame and stop concrete from leaking out. Depending on how big you want the pavers to be, you will create forms according to the desired size.

However, keep in mind, the bigger the pavers are, the thicker they need to be, to prevent cracking. You can also fill in the gaps with gravel and start by filling the forms at the center and then work your way out.

Many people buy already made a form; however, you can make them as well, but this will require more time, especially if you aren’t skilled.

Secure the forms and prepare the ground

Make sure that all frames are leveled and screwed together. When it comes to ground, it should be a pressed hard mixture of clay and rock, but you need to add a steel reinforcement at the bottom.

For this, you can either use steel mesh or #4 rebar; however, a mesh is more comfortable to manipulate.

Considering the concrete, it can be poured by hand, or you can hire laborers for this project. The pavers don’t need to be as smooth as countertops because they will go beneath the deck.

Build the deck

First of all, start with a layout. If you want to achieve a traditional design, then boards should run in one direction, and for this, you will require rows of parallel sleepers. On the other hand, if you want a bit complicated design, then you can install double sleepers to withstand any boards.

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When setting up sleepers, they don’t have to be level; they can follow the slope of your patio. However, sleepers should create an even and flat surface. To attach them to concrete, you should drill through the surface and drive in concrete screws.

You can cover sleepers with flashing tape, and without it, the water can soak the top surface and will cause timber to rot. In this case, the flashing tape is the best way to prevent decay of the wood.

When you install deck boards over sleepers, which is similar to a traditional standard deck framing. You can begin with dark accent boards, which can serve you as temporary guides. To cover the end of the sleepers, you can use the deck fascia board.

How To Measure A Deck

How To Measure A Deck – Detailed Guide

Many people dream of having a new deck where they can relax in the afternoons, enjoy dinners with friends, or celebrate birthday parties and holidays. However, building a deck involves a lot of time and effort, especially if it’s a DIY project.

Another essential feature to consider is the amount of materials required for this project. But, don’t worry, if you are new to this, then we are going to help you organize everything and create an open-air extension of your living room.

Make a plan

Creating a simple sketch and its connection to your home should be the first step. On top of that, you can add in some notes and essential measurements as you design the outdoor space and plan the first phase of construction.

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Locate the access points

Measure all the access points, such as doors, windows, landings, and stairs. When constructing a deck, make sure to leave plenty of space to move around them, since they are high traffic areas.

Consider setbacks

A setback involves a set of regulations which determine how far the new structure must be built from your legal property line.

This feedback can significantly affect the size of your deck, as well as the shape and height. Therefore, make sure to get the necessary information before you start with construction.

Pace it out

With this simple hack, you can measure your deck in 20 minutes. While you can get a tape measure, it will take you some time to finish everything, and provide you unnecessary accuracy. An average pace should be approximately 2.5 feet.

The next thing should be to estimate the deck area. In this case, you are looking for the number of paces squared, which later you can covert in square feet.

Pace it out

The easiest way to measure the surface is to divide it into rectangles. For instance, the length in paces is multiplied by the width in paces, to determine the square paces for that specific rectangle. In the end, you add up all the rectangles and have the complete square paceage of your deck.

Mark the utility lines

Before you start with digging, make sure to mark the utilities, such as sewer, gas, or water. You can call 811 and request the services of utility locators, to avoid further damage. The professional will mark the underground lines, free of charge.

Knowing where the lines are, can assist you in the excavation process, especially if you want to install an outdoor kitchen or a gas fireplace on your deck.

Hire an expert

For people who aren’t skilled with DIY projects, it’s best to hire an expert who can help you complete the projects. Sometimes it’s better to pay the extra money, instead of ruining your deck.

A professional will provide the necessary equipment as well as materials. Since he knows the suppliers, you may even get a discount and save some cash. So, before engaging in this process, be aware of your abilities, and whether you are skilled enough to finish everything.

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