Buy Composite Decking

Inside, you may have plenty of counter space for food preparation tasks, but outside, counter space may be limited. If you’re creating a built-in grill for your wood or composite deck, patio, you might be able to add some work space to your outdoor kitchen area. If built-in counters aren’t an option, you may consider adding a portable work cart near the grill to handle food prep. Prep carts work great on decks in areas with limited space.

This is one of the most common concerns homeowners have and for good reason. You want to maintain the great looks of your new deck surface as long as possible, so treat your composite decking with care just like you do with wood floors inside your house. In my opinion, preventive maintenance is the key.

Tips for maintaining a beautiful deck surface:

• Don’t drag heavy furniture over your deck
• Apply pads to the legs of deck furniture
• Use covers under your flower pots and other stationary items
• Add a grease pad / splatter guard under your grill
• In the winter shovel snow off the deck with a plastic shovel
• Clean up spills immediately
• Clean the deck surface 2X a year (once in the Spring)

Use good-ole common sense and care for your wood or composite wood deck and it will look good for many years to come. Latitudes Capricorn and Latitudes Captiva co-extruded composite decking helps reduce scratches and virtually eliminates stains as they are capped with a rugged, natural-looking surface layer.

Check out this blog on cleaning a composite deck.

As a savvy homeowner you're always looking for something new and different—and you should be, too! If you're willing to do a little exploring, you can create or renovate a composite deck or lumber deck that positively sizzles with visual and functional appeal in your outdoor living space.

Suggest creating multiple levels. Perhaps an embedded inset for visual appeal. And why settle for straight lines and predictable runs? How about incorporating sweeping curves or compound angles with your deck planks? Create contrast with complimentary deck board colors and reversible textures. A grill bump-out could keep young fingers out of heat's reach and add more usable space. An outdoor kitchen or fire pit area with inset deck stones will add functionality and interest.

Deck Railing Ideas
When you're done with basic design, start thinking about the nuances and finishing touches that really make a deck sing. Deckorators has code approved aluminum railing kits and deck handrails, balusters, post caps and lighting in a wide range of styles and colors. You'll have no problem finding the right accessories for any deck railing design. More deck railing ideas in this blog.

A new or rehabbed deck project is a rare chance for you to make profound changes to your outdoor living environment. Start a project today!

You’ve probably heard the expression “God is in the details.” Well, when it comes to creating a truly unique and beautiful deck design, the right mix of details can create a heavenly result.

Every deck is essentially a blank canvas. Adding design details such as ornamental post caps, decorative balusters and deck inlays, can turn your blank canvas into a custom deck that is a work of art.

Not sure which details will work best for your tastes and design parameters?

Deck design software can help you envision how your deck will look with the addition of certain details. The Deck Visualizer is a free online program that allows you to choose from a selection of scenes and then dress up each with a variety of designer details, such as wood color, railing design, and baluster and post cap accessories.

Designer touches are limited only by your imagination – and creativity in forming combinations. In addition to ornamental post caps and decorative balusters – which we’ve talked about before in this blog – there are many other ways to customize your deck, including:

• Deck inlays – A deck inlay can be anything from decorative stone or ceramic tile to a design made up of different colored composite deck boards placed at interesting angles.
• Reversible boards – Unlike standard deck boards, Latitudes Intrepid composite deck boards can be placed with either side facing up. Each side has its own unique texture (woodgrain or brushed) and color variance, allowing you to create an interesting design while using just one type of decking material.
• Picture framing – By installing a trim board around a deck, you can give your wood deck surface a unique appearance, and protect plank ends that can deteriorate over time when exposed to the elements.
• Hidden fasteners – Strategically placed nails or screws can be incorporated into a deck’s design, but for an ultra-clean look, consider Latitude’s Equator hidden fastener. Concealed below the deck surface, Equator composite deck hidden fasteners fit into the groove on the side of the deck board secured at each joist to eliminate pre-drilling and allow for quick and easy installation, leaving a deck looking smooth and sleek. Installing the right hidden fastener will make your composite deck barefoot friendly.
• Recessed lighting – Deckorators recessed lighting kits use compact, ultra-bright, low-volt LED lights to make decks more appealing and accessible after dark. Build them into stairs, step-downs and anywhere you need illumination both for looks and safetypurposes.
• Benches and boxes – Built-ins are a hot deck trend and you can use Latitudes composite decking to build curved composite benches and planter boxes around your deck.

Whether you choose to add just one detail or many, designer touches can truly make your deck one-of-a-kind – and make you feel like you have your own little slice of heaven in your own backyard.

Is this summer your family’s year to finally put in that backyard pool they’ve been dreaming about? Or maybe you already have a pool and you’re looking for a way to make using it an even more enjoyable experience.
Composite pool decking is a great way to enhance the look, appeal and usability of any pool or hot tub. Latitudes composite decking is a great choice, especially around water, as it's slip resistant. Add matching composite pool deck railing, aluminum pool railing from Deckorators or  Veranda vinyl pool fencing and you’ve got a great start on your own personal outdoor oasis.

Whether your pool is above-ground or in-ground, the area around it is an important part of how much your family can enjoy their pool. Bare ground could result in some very muddy summers. Concrete or patio pavers can cut the mud but get blazing hot in the summer sun.

Swimming pool decking is a practical and beautiful alternative to other types of around-the-pool landscaping.

When you’re planning your pool deck, keep all the cosmetic details in mind. Doing so will ensure you end up with a backyard feature that looks great and that your family will enjoy for many summers to come.

Check out these blog posts on tips for planning your pool deck:
- Pool Decking: The Sun Factor
- Location, Size and Access for your Pool and Deck
- Pool Deck Safety
- The Right Look for Pool Decking

Most pools are positioned in direct sunlight for most of the day so virtually any type of patio or deck material is going to get warm and may even be hot on bare feet. You can minimize any discomfort by choosing a lighter color of composite decking (such as cedar or gray) or a lightly tinted deck stain for lumber decking.

A dark colored pool deck surface will get warmer than light colored surfaces during the day and may even provide warmth after the sun sets as the deck surface radiates heat.

Latitudes composite decking is slip and fade resistant – providing a natural-looking, barefoot-friendly pool deck surface. Available in four classic colors (cedar, gray, redwood and walnut) and two tropical (koa and adobe), Latitudes deck boards comes in two profiles – solid and slotted. For a fastener-free surface on your pool deck, combine the slotted profile deck board with the Equator hidden deck fasteners to help assure that no one steps on a hot protruding nail or screw.

A swimming pool deck is a great way to enhance the beauty and functionality of your yard and swimming pool area - but only if it fits in with the style of your landscaping and home. Color and material of your pool deck should complement the architectural style of your home as well as the pool and landscaping. Keeping the cosmetic details in mind will ensure you build an eye-catching backyard oasis for entertaining your family and friends for many summers to come.

And when it’s time to pick out pool decking, Latitudes has a variety of composite deck board options to suite your needs. Latitudes composite decking is available in three deck styles - Intrepid, Captiva and Capricorn. Depending on your home’s exterior design or your own personal taste, Latitudes decking and railing provides attractive options for use around a pool.

If you're looking for an all-natural material to surround your pool or hot tub, consider using pressure-treated lumber. And for an ultra high-end exotic look, discover Abaco tropical hardwood decking.

A graspable secondary handrail is an important component to consider when planning a deck with stairs. So whether you're constructing a residential composite deck, lumber deck or a deck made from other decking material, you're typically required to install a graspable secondary handrail on one side of the deck's stair railing when there are four or more stair risers present.

Key Residential Stair Handrail Requirements (IRC - International Residential Code)

1. Stairways having four or more risers, or rising more than 30 inches in height, whichever is less, must have at least one grab rail.
2. Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of at least 1-1/4 inches and not greater than 2 inches. If the handrail is not circular it shall have a perimeter dimension of at least 4 inches and not greater than 6-1/4 inches with a maximum cross section of dimension of 2-1/4 inches.
3. The grab rail must terminate at the newel post (top and bottom posts).
4. Clear space between a handrail and a wall or other surface shall be a minimum of 1-1/2 inches.
5. The height of handrails must be installed 34 inches - 38 inches from the upper surface of the handrail to the surface of the tread.

Graspable secondary handrails are required by more and more building codes / deck codes in areas across the country. Both Deckorators and Latitudes brands feature a secondary handrail system in their respective deck railing products lineups.

These attractive and highly versatile graspable handrails are ideal for meeting building codes when required. Made of heavy gauge aluminum and durable PVC, these systems include five different radius elbows and several styles of returns to meet every possible installation. The railing is available in three colors (adobe, tan and white) to complement a homes exterior.

Check out the American Wood Council's "Design for Code Acceptance" document for complete details. Stair handrail requirements are outlined on page 18.

Looking to distribute secondary handrails or components? Look to Waymark to supply all your fence and railing accessories.

Spring is here, and that means plenty of time spent outdoors on your deck. And a deck built with Latitudes composite lumber decking is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the warmer weather. Six wood-tone colors—classic gray, cedar, redwood and walnut, and two rich, tropical colors, adobe and Koa—make a lasting impression that doesn’t require painting or staining.

Choosing your style is easy, thanks to Latitudes Intrepid reversible boards. One side has a wood-grain surface, while the other reveals a smooth, brushed surface. Our Capricorn tropical ultra low maintenance deck boards provide a smooth, wood-grain surface on both sides. If along the water is more your style, check out our Latitudes Marine composite deck boards, specifically designed for use at marinas and on boardwalks and docks.

Whether it’s the exotic look of Capricorn or the strength of our synthetic Marine board, all of our Latitudes products are easy to maintain and perfectly complement any outdoor decor.

Looking for more information on Marine decking? Check out this marine decking blog post.

New deck trends include low maintenance decking, unique railing and railing accessories as well as lighting options. And as the trend for enjoying customized decks and outdoor living space grows, personalized outdoor living areas are the latest in home improvement upgrades.

Building or updating an existing deck isn't simply a great investment: It provides opportunities to personalize your backyard or porch and customize the look to your taste. And with many families staying home this summer thanks to high gas pricing and a recovering economy, why not build your perfect area for entertaining?

By designing your deck with accents, lights and unique accessories, you can transform your backyard into an outdoor retreat you'll never want to leave, whether you're catching up with friends over a grilled dinner in the evening or are curled up with a book in a lounge chair on a sunny afternoon.

With a new emphasis on value, durability and ultra-low maintenance, many homeowners seek deck materials that resist fading and staining. Latitudes Capricorn Tropical composite decking and Captiva decking, sold through dealers nationwide, are good choices. Low-maintenance, eco-friendly composite decking material is made from a mixture of recycled wood fiber and postindustrial high-density polyethylene, which looks natural and feels great on bare feet.

Add unique touches to really make the deck your personal haven. Change your deck's look with interesting balusters to match other decorative accents on your house or in your yard. You'll find traditional bronze balusters, classic rounded rails or even scenic glass balusters, which give your outdoor room a clear view.

Then consider breaking up the wooden look of your deck with Deckorators postcovers, to help match the look of your deck to a stone house, to a backyard with stone pavers or to a stone wall. Easily installed over a wooden 4x4 or 6x6 post, faux stone postcovers come in several stone patterns. See my blog post on deck post covers.

Finish off your railing system with post caps. Deckorators post caps are functionally and artistically decorative. Maybe you're interested in the more traditional black, stainless or pewter colors, topping a solar LED light to illuminate your deck for evening use. Or try a creative look with stained glass post caps, bringing a colorful flair to each deck post.

With so many unique decking and railing design options available, you can transform your wood or composite deck into a new outdoor living area. And because you designed it, it will perfectly fit your lifestyle.

Check out my past blog for deck railing ideas.

Choosing the right hidden fastener for composite decking is pretty simple, but it's important to choose a system that allows each deck plank to expand and contract for varying weather cycles. Some of the more popular hidden fasteners systems are made of UV resistant plastic or metal. These hidden fasteners brands include the Equator hidden fastener (made specifically for composite decking), TigerClaw, Eb-Ty, Phantom and Lumber Loc.

When installing Latitudes slotted composite decking or other decking products that have a 5/32” groove, the patented Equator hidden fastener accommodates for the expansion and contraction in the boards width and length which occurs naturally in composites / synthetic deck boards. Read my blog post on how the Equator hidden fastener can even be used with the extra thick Latitudes Marine decking.

The Equator fastener installs in the grooves of the slotted composite decking and virtually eliminates the need for pre-drilling. What's more, the system automatically gaps each board with the proper spacing—ensuring a painless, easy installation. The fastener is not exposed, so your deck surface remains eye-catching and uninterrupted by screw patterns.

With a hidden fastener system, you'll give your deck an extra-clean touch without any visible blemishes such as nail pops or mushrooms. And when you choose the innovative design of the Equator hidden fastener, it’s what you don’t see that makes all of the difference!

Check out another one of my blog posts on hidden fasteners.

Building a deck and going on vacation have at least one thing in common: upfront planning leads to fun and relaxation. Don’t fall prey to disappointment and additional expense by failing to consider the details. Below are some of the items you need to consider when planning a deck.

Local codes and requirements
Have you checked the local building codes? Have you followed sound building practices? Does your neighborhood owners association have special requirements? Few things are more troublesome than having to redo work because some building requirement was overlooked.

How will you use your deck?
Make sure to consider your deck’s use. If it’s to be built around a pool or will include a raised fire pit, make sure to use the right materials. If you expect large gatherings, will your design and structure handle the load? If your neighbors are close by, do you want or expect privacy? How much furniture will you have on your deck? Many people find out their deck isn't that large once furniture and grills are added. If you're planning to use a grill for cooking, consider adding a kick-out to your deck.

Did you know?
Planning your deck around its intended use means more than just looking for the right product. Plan the deck’s size and layout around the furniture, grills and accessories that you intend to add to ensure a comfortable outdoor living space

Use this deck visualizer (deck design program) and start conceptualizing your treated lumber deck or composite deck today!

Let’s say you’re contemplating having a treated lumber deck or a Latitudes composite lumber deck built or remodeled, and you don’t have the time or the inclination to do it yourself. Choosing the right contractor/deck builder is both art and science. Doing your homework goes a long way toward being satisfied with the end result.

Important tips for choosing the right professional deck builder:
Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations or reference the decking or railing manufacturer's web site for a list of preferred installers (composite decking installers, deck railing installers). Narrow the list by interviewing several installers by phone. Ask lots of questions and request referrals. Pick your top three candidates and meet them face-to-face. Communicate your needs and expectations. Provide a sketch or a deck design using Deckorators Deck Visualizer, and get several bids. Make sure the contractor will accept a graduated payment plan for work completed. And never, ever pay 100% up front.

Three key things to remember

1. Don’t let price make or break any deal.
2. Get everything in writing.
3. Go with your gut.

Nothing lends a splash of the new and different like remodeling or updating a deck. Real estate agents know how popular decks are with prospective buyers, and few home renovations will get a higher return on investment. A remodeled deck breathes new life into a home's surroundings for those who choose to stay put rather than buy a new house.

Consider replacing old wood balusters with scenic glass balusters from Deckorators. They’re great for opening up the view and will make the deck seem larger, without adding a single square foot.

Deck lighting can make a dramatic difference when dusk arrives. From solar metal post cap lights to recessed LED lighting, there are a wide range of deck lighting options to amp up the ambiance.

And don’t forget about the deck surface! Replace pressure-treated deck boards with Latitudes Intrepid™ composite decking or Latitudes Captiva co-extruded composite decking for ultra low maintenance and durability. If the look of tropical hardwoods is what's needed, choose Latitudes Capricorn composite decking.

If you’re looking to expand an existing deck, or add function and style, check out more great ideas inside my decking and outdoor living blog. Topics covered include adding a raised fire pit, barbecue grilling kick-outs and other value-add ideas to make a deck perform based on how it will be used.

See my other blog post on getting the most out of your deck investment.

Spring is the right time to clean your decking and railing. Keep in mind, when you build a deck with composite decking and railing, you get years of relaxing, carefree use when compared to traditional lumber decking. There’s no stripping, painting, sealing or staining necessary. Of course, thanks to nature, no product is maintenance free. But with Latitudes decking, a simple, occasional cleaning will prevent the buildup of dirt and chalk—as well as pollen and other debris that cause and accelerate the growth of mold or mildew.

When it’s time to clean your Latitudes composite deck, here are some easy-to-follow guidelines for great results. If you use a pressure washer, use a fan-style tip—and only use the washer to wet down or rinse your deck. Avoid high-pressure blasting that literally can drive dirt and spores deeper into the composite decking surface.

Typically, you can clean your deck with soap, water and a scrub bush or use a high-quality cleaner available at your home-improvement center. Most cleaners contain Sodium Percarbonate and a detergent. These types of cleaners are very effective in removing dirt while bleaching out mold and mildew stains—simply follow the label directions.

When you find stains, there are simple ways to deal with them. For rust stains caused by metal furniture and other sources, look for a deck cleaner containing oxalic acid. To wash away grease and oil stains, use any standard commercial degreaser. Typically, these will contain propylene glycol, sodium hydroxide and detergents.

If your deck has a stubborn grease or oil stain, try a small amount of spot remover or paint thinner. But use it sparingly and wash it away quickly. These products usually contain organic solvents that can attack the grain pattern in your composite deck. Whatever you use to clean your synthetic decking and railing, always perform a test in an inconspicuous area before you use it on the entire surface. Always be certain to read, understand and follow all label instructions.

Some cleaning products and inhibitors may be more effective than others, depending on your environmental conditions. And remember, the best way to manage stains—is not to have them occur. Always try to deal with spills before they have a chance to set-up.

Remember, that while mold and mildew can reappear on any exterior building surface, there are ways to manage them effectively on composite decking. Above all, sit back, relax and enjoy your low-maintenance, high-reward Latitudes composite lumber decking and railing. See additional tips for preventing mold and mildew from my past blog. Also watch our deck cleaning video.

Deckorators solar post caps add a great finishing touch to any deck or fence. At night, they enhance your outdoor living area with a soft, welcoming glow. With a top-mounted solar lens, rechargeable double-A batteries and long-lasting LED bulbs, these eco friendly products require no wiring and mount easily to wood deck posts, composite deck post or vinyl posts.

You’ll find they’re very easy to install and maintain. To begin installation, remove the protective clear plastic film from the top of the cap. Pull off the top by gripping the sides firmly, and lifting it off. Then pull the red tab (if factory installed), to enable the battery connection. If your Deckorators cap has a switch, activate the solar cell by turning the switch on before replacing the top.

Now, make sure your post is flat and free of debris. Apply a bead of exterior-grade construction adhesive to the underside of the cap. Position the cap on the post and press it into place and you’re done; It’s that easy.

You can help maintain metal and Tiffany-style glass solar post caps even before you install them; Just spray on a coat of wax. Once installed, the foil on the cap will need a quick cleaning once every three to six months. Use soap and water and add a little lemon juice if needed, followed by the wax. Each solar post cap becomes fully charged after one day in the sun. Your cap may have an on/off switch. Make sure the switch is “off” during the initial charge. Turn it back on once the charge is complete.

If the light on a solar post cap ever malfunctions, here are some easy steps that should resolve the problem and prevent it from recurring. Inspect the batteries to make sure they are rechargeable. You must always use rechargeable batteries with solar post caps. Test the batteries to make sure they are charged and functioning properly. To help prevent corrosion, you can dab a small amount of grease on the diodes. Then, as you place the batteries into the cap, check to see that the batteries are seated and making a good connection. If your ornamental solar post top has a switch, check to see that the switch is working correctly. If necessary, lubricate the switch to ensure peak performance before putting the top back in place.

With these simple measures, the lights on your caps should illuminate your deck and outdoor living area night after night. So sit back and enjoy your deck or fence, enhanced by the beauty and functionality of Deckorator Solar Post Caps.

Visit the Deckorators web site for additional details on post cap installation.

Americans will spend nearly $141 billion on remodeling in the first half of this year (2011), according to Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies. And If you'll be among the many homeowners opting to improve, rather than relocating, you may be curious to see what renovations are likely to give you the best balance of enhanced resale value and immediate enjoyment.

Whether you prefer pressure treated wood lumber or synthetic lumber, adding a deck is one of the best ways to improve resale value, expand your living space and up your enjoyment of your home environment. On average, homeowners who add a wood deck can expect to recoup more than 80 percent of its cost when it comes time to sell, according to Remodeling Magazine's 2009-2010 Cost vs. Value Report. Composite lumber deck additions return nearly 71 percent at the time of resale.

For those who love the look and feel of an “all-natural” deck, there’s no substitute for wood, weather it be pressure treated lumber or tropical hardwood. But for consumers who prefer the low maintenance alternative, composite decking may be the material of choice.

View more information on adding value to an existing deck in my past blog or visit a related blog on outdoor improvements.

Start designing your dream deck free with the Deck Visualizer.

Turn your deck design ideas into reality with the Latitudes Deck Visualizer interactive deck program. This deck design software allows you to freely design a unique, conceptual composite decking and railing layout.

The Latitudes Deck Visualizer is an intuitive program that allows users to create a custom look in just a few minutes. This unique deck design tool can be used on virtually any computer or mobile device and allows you to print your custom deck design, save it, e-mail it to your contractor or share it with friends and family.

Latitudes Deck Visualizer incorporates real life background scenes and gives the user control of selecting decking types and color, railing styles and a multitude of railing accessories like baluster infills, post caps and more.

Three simple steps for creating your custom deck design
 

1. Choose from hundreds of decking and railing product combinations
2. See how your choices look on various deck scenes.
3. Select a different deck scene and compatible product selections will transfer to the new scene

Program Features

• Information Icon: Click on the information icon to learn more about a product
• BOOKMARK: Save your design for future reference or additional changes
• EMAIL: Send your custom deck design to your builder and friends
• PRINT: Print a summary of your customized design—complete with a rendered image list of selected decking and railing products
• SHARE: Post your custom designer deck on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter

Deckorators, the originator of the round aluminum baluster, has designed and launched the Duo Connector™, a patent-pending baluster connector that broadens the deck baluster / infill category for deck railing.

Arched Duo Connector allows deck builders to create distinct infill designs using existing Deckorators Classic round deck balusters. Square Duo Connector allows you to create a unique modern infill design using Estate square aluminum balusters. Duo Connector installs easily into both the Deckorators 2x4 code-compliant aluminum railing, as well as on wood and composite deck railing. Connectors are available in powder-coated black, white and bronze, and have compatible stair rail adapters.

The uniquely-designed Duo Connector is another example of how Deckorators continues to be the industry-leading deck railing products brand.

For more details, see the Duo Connector news release in the Deckorators Newsroom.

Latitudes Captiva composite decking is made with the proven Strandex technology employed in all Latitudes composite decking, coupled with the innovative co-extruded cap stock material found on premium Latitudes Capricorn tropical composite decking. The result is a stain- and fade-resistant decking product offered in gray, cedar and walnut. With a natural-looking woodgrain pattern on one side, Latitudes Captiva balances aesthetics and value in an ultralow-maintenance composite deck board.

Latitudes Captiva decking will be available beginning February 2011 through Latitudes’ distribution network and by special order.

By adding Captiva to our Latitudes family of composite decking, we have one of the most diverse, attractive and user-friendly decking lineups in the industry.

Latitudes Captiva decking is available in 12-, 16- and 20-foot lengths, in slotted and standard boards. Slotted boards are capped on one side and feature the patented Equator® hidden fastener. The fastener’s unique design automatically gaps each board and delivers automatic, consistent alignment of deck boards for striking results and considerable savings. Latitudes Captiva is backed by a 25-year limited warranty. In addition, Latitudes Captiva is barefoot-friendly and proven not to splinter, split or rot, providing long-lasting beauty and comfort with no sealing, painting or staining required. Captiva composite decking is perfect for pool decking, walkways, porches or anywhere ultralow-maintenance decking is preferred.