Deck Lighting

Prior to installing Deckorators aluminum deck rail kit, you may want to contact your local municipality about code requirements for both the height of the upper railing as measured from the deck surface and the open area from the bottom of the lower rail to the deck surface (known as the sweep). I’ll tell you about the standard ranges but keep in mind your local code could be different.

Due to the dozens of attractive Deckorators options, the most challenging part of this process is not the installation – it’s picking the type of baluster and the color. Deckorators originated the decorative balusters category and has provided innovative railing solutions for over a decade. Deckorators all-aluminum railing is specifically designed for use with all Deckorators baluster styles.

Important to note—there are two types of balusters: those that fit between the lower and upper rail and those that face mount to the side of the rails. If you elect to go with balusters between the rails, the holes for the connectors are pre-drilled here in the upper and lower rails. For those that attach to the side of the rails, simply turn the pre-drilled holes downward on the top and bottom rails so the rails don’t take on any precipitation.

Deckorators railing material has a lifetime warranty. It’s made of long-lasting aluminum, which does not rust and makes it ultra-low maintenance. It has a powder coated finish, which looks great, but can get scratched if you’re careless unwrapping and when you’re cutting or drilling. Be careful to not set the pieces down on any metal shavings. Keep your work area free of debris.

Prior to installing the deck railing, there’s a checklist to follow with your existing deck. This post sleeve is meant to fit over posts that are plumb -- not twisted or damaged. Replace the post if necessary. And structural support must come from the continuation of the deck support posts that extend up through the decking or from railing posts bolted to the inside of the rim or outer joists. Railing posts cannot be more than 6 feet apart (on-center).

Once you’ve determined that the posts are good to go, you’ll need to trim the post sleeves to length with a chop saw or circular saw. A carbide-tipped blade works best. Basically, sleeves should be 1-1/2” longer than the rail height. Common rail height is either 36 or 42 inches. However, if you’re installing the optional rail, you’ll need another 1-1/2” of sleeve.

It’s important to note that some wood preservatives may cause an undesirable reaction with aluminum, especially the raw aluminum edge. To prevent this, we have a liner inside the post sleeve and for the raw edge, I recommend shimming or caulking the bottom edge of the post sleeve. After caulking, install the post base trim.

Now it’s time to install the rails and balusters. To determine the length of the top and bottom rails, measure the distance between the installed post sleeves and then remove an additional quarter inch on each end to accommodate the bracket.

For spacing the balusters, Deckorators makes it a snap with pre-drilled holes in the top and bottom rails.

The idea is to try to match the uniform spacing between balusters to the spacing between the end balusters and the posts. To get the proper look, you want the greatest distance possible without exceeding 3-7/8”. To accomplish this, either line up the middle baluster with the center mark or, for spans less than 6 feet on center, line up the space between the balusters at the centerline.

Baluster connectors are secured with a screw on both the top and bottom rails. Be careful you don’t overtighten the screws. And do not insert the balusters until the bottom rail is installed within the brackets mounted on the posts.

To install the brackets, position the bottom rail by using a couple of 2x4 blocks placed under each end of the rail. Spacing of 3” is recommended for the distance between the deck and the bottom of the rail. This is called the sweep and may vary with local building codes. With the bottom rail in position, mark the location of the bracket on both posts. Then pre-drill through the sleeve only using a ¼” drill bit.

Before installing the bottom rail, you’ll need to attach a support block (or foot), cut to size, at the center line.

As noted earlier, some Deckorators balusters are attached on the face of the rails, in which case you would turn down the pre-drilled holes and mark the center line between the two posts. Then, either line up the center baluster or the center of the opening between two balusters. Remember that you want equal end spacing between the last baluster and the post and you don’t want this opening to be greater than 3-7/8”. Now you’re ready to drill the holes for each baluster. For spacing each baluster, I recommend using a small stud block, which is 3-1/2” wide.

The next step is to position and install the top brackets in the same fashion – being careful to pre-drill the bracket holes through the sleeve only. Now before installing the balusters, apply a little adhesive on the outside of the connector or inside the baluster to prevent any turning or rattling in the wind. For balusters that fit inside the rails, simply lower the top rail into position and connect the balusters, gently using a rubber mallet if necessary to eliminate gaps.

An option for a finished look is the cap rail. Cut the cap rail and cap rail insert to length. Something to keep in mind: the cap rail will be ½” longer than the top and bottom rails. Center the cap rail insert on top of the top rail and pre-drill 7 pilot holes for our 6’ span. Screw in the cap rail insert and apply construction adhesive. Situate the cap rail over the cap rail insert by pressing down from one end to the other until it snaps into place. Gently tap with a rubber mallet if needed.

Last item is attaching post caps, which are easily installed using construction adhesive. Choose from pyramid-style or solar post caps if you want to add ambient lighting to your project. Deckorators is the original and finest name in quality post caps.

Now, You should be ready to tackle your Deckorators railing installation with confidence. Be sure to follow the written instructions for recommended drill bit sizes and screws. And remember that deck stair railing kits are also available.

Download step-by-step instructions (PDF file) or see a 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.

When it comes to landscaping, customers want more than wood chips and plastic edging. Products from Outdoor Essentials transform ordinary lawns and gardens into appealing outdoor environments that homeowners love. Show them plenty of options, including Tiffany-style stepping stones and our newest offering—Square Tilestone jade stepping stone.

Call in the songbirds with bird baths of serpentine jade. Dress up deck posts with elegant caps, also available in solar-powered versions to provide lighting after dark. Planter post caps provide a place for foliage atop any deck post. Outdoor Essentials lets you create a truly remarkable outdoor sanctuary that's easy to install and impossible to forget.

See my past blog post on how to build a raised garden bed with The M Brace from Outdoor Essentials.

Great deck railing ideas start with Deckorators! Deck building season is here and style calls for a look that enhances at a glance. Deck railing and deck railing accessories dial up the visual interest, whether designed-in or retrofitted. Deckorators offers decorative and functional metal deck railing systems and accessories to make your deck stand out from the crowd.

Put the sizzle on your composite lumber deck or treated wood deck with signature metal balusters in an array of colors and styles. Decorative glass balusters let the view come through. Solar post caps accentuate and illuminate. It’s easy to offer great suggestions when you know what’s available. There’s some very cool outdoor accessories in the Deckorators lineup.

The Deckorators brand of deck railing accessories offers decorative and functional balusters by style. It’s also a mecca for metal, glass, wood and illuminated post caps.

For even more deck railing ideas, check out the Deckorators deck visualizer and start designing your dream deck!

With the housing market on the rebound many homeowners remain cautious about overspending on home improvements. And lower-cost targeted improvements are becoming a popular way to add value to a home. Updating your deck is one improvement that nearly always offers a great return on investment.

Deckorators, an industry-leading brand which offer aluminum railing kits, decorative balusters, post caps and accessories, has seen demand increase for the past several years.

Consumers are investing in their homes by adding decorative elements to their existing deck and outdoor areas and creating expansions or adding tasteful accessories to compliment the space.

Also aiding growth is an emphasis on creative design by deck builders and do-it-yourselfers. The wealth of new products on the market lets homeowners differentiate their properties from those of neighbors and friends. It’s personalization once reserved only for interior spaces.

New products from Deckorators include LED deck lighting kits, unique baluster infills and aluminum railing kits. Deckorators also sees continued interest in their decorative glass balusters and stylish architectural balusters that offer the look of wrought iron with a finish that lasts for years. Demand for Deckorators solar-powered post caps has also skyrocketed as easy installation allows for even the most novice DIYer to easily and affordably update their deck railing.

Homeowners are taking more pride in their homes and investing in high quality products outdoors. That’s a smart move for increasing the value of your home.

Leigh Brown, a Charlotte, N.C., realtor with RE/MAX Signature Properties, says one of the most popular features home-buyers are looking for today is outdoor living space.

“Everyone wants to spend time outside, and communities are being built around greenbelts, golf courses and parks. This generation of first-time home-buyers is tilting toward a more environmentally conscious lifestyle, and it’s fitting that those same people want a home that has a nice flow between the inside and the out,” says Brown.

Deckorators deck accessory products appeal to deck builders and homeowners looking to express their style and individuality.

Today, many decks incorporate seating areas, cooking areas and often recreation areas. Hot tubs and spas are popular features, and families spend lots of time enjoying decks and patios.
“Today’s deck is much more than a place to park your grill,” adds Brown. “It’s the hub of the family’s social life.”

Design your dream deck with the Deckorators free online Deck Visualizer program.

Outdoor deck lighting is becoming more popular for both aesthetics and safety reasons. So if you have a deck or are considering building a deck, what kind of deck lighting would you be most interested in adding to your composite deck design or lumber deck design?

The results are in for the 2010 Latitudes Best Deck Contest, and the winners have been chosen. There were several impressive entries in the Latitudes Best Deck contest, but Gina Leggett’s custom deck, built for some good-ole entertaining in Indiana, incorporates many great features that one would look for in a low maintenance composite lumber deck, including a raised portable fire pit area, featuring Latitudes deck stones, and built in bench seating around an octagon space. For this, Gina takes home the grand prize.

Project Name: My Backyard Escape
Submitted by: Gina Leggett, Roanoke, IN

Judges review
This winning deck features a wide variety of Latitudes composite decking and railing products, skillfully installed. The built-in composite lumber benches make this small space really functional — no furniture required. The Latitudes deck stones have been cut to match the octagon shape of the deck, giving the fire pit a prefect resting place. The use of two complementary colors of composite decking, railing and fascia break up the space and add a unique, personalized look. All this deck needs now are a few Latitudes solar post cap lights. Great job Gina!

See the top three winning entries here.

Post cap deck lights are one of the most prominent deck enhancements available. Solar deck lighting accessories highlight the deck posts at the top and bottom of a stair rail and act as both a deck railing ornament and as a source of ambient light for composite lumber decks and treated lumber decks.

Solar lighted post caps are much easier to install than wired low voltage deck lights as they do not require an electric outlet. Regardless of power source, both types of post and rail lighting help improve deck safety.

Deck post cap lights are typically sold with wood, plastic or metal bases to fit the most common deck post sizes of 4x4 and 6x6. Wood post cap bases are often available in the same species used for constructing decks like pine, redwood or cedar so they can be stained to match a decks color. See article.

Some ornamental post cap lights have on/off switches so you can control which post caps illuminate at dark. By turning the switch off, you're able to maintain a consistent appearance in the daylight and can avoid over-lighting at night. If your solar post caps do not come with an off switch, simply pull the rechargeable batteries out of the post cap lights you don't want to illuminate.

Solar post cap lights are available in several styles and materials including metal, plastic and wood, so they can match deck balusters and complete the look of your outdoor living area.

See my past blog article on other deck accessories.

If you want to preserve and build a tree into a pressure treated lumber deck or composite lumber deck, then be sure to incorporate the tree into your deck design or deck plans.

Begin construction near the tree by running a beam in front and behind the tree between two double wood joists running perpendicular to the house surrounding the tree. The joists should then be fastened on both sides of the tree with their load being relocated around the tree. Install diagonal supports at the corners between the joists and the tree to allow for a round opening.

For an added touch, consider installing landscape lighting in the tree opening or recessed LED deck lighting in treated wood or synthetic decking planks surrounding the tree. Top off the deck railing posts with ambient lights using Deckorators solar post caps. When dark, lights will make the tree and surrounding deck railing stand out.

Build with caution when constructing a deck around a tree. A tree’s root system is very complex and can be easily damaged during construction, especially if you need to dig piers for vertical support. In addition, the root system of the tree must be able to receive enough water to live, so make sure planks are spaced accordingly (about 1/4 inch between each deck board). It’s important to leave enough room around the trunk of the tree (at least 3 inches on all sides) for growth. If designed and constructed properly, you’ll be able to enjoy an attractive deck featuring a unique, natural centerpiece.

If you’re considering a backyard BBQ party to celebrate the end of Summer, you need to be aware of some important safety tips when it comes to using a charcoal/wood fired or gas grill on your wood deck, composite deck or patio.

Read the owner’s manual
Always read the owner’s manual before using your grill and follow specific usage, assembly, and safety procedures. Contact the grill manufacturer if you have specific questions.

Grills are for outside, only
Barbecue grills are designed for outdoor use, only. Never barbecue in your trailer, tent, house, garage, or any enclosed area because carbon monoxide may accumulate and kill you.

Use grills in a well-ventilated area
Set up your grill in an open area that is away from buildings, overhead combustible surfaces, dry leaves, or brush. Be sure to avoid high traffic areas and always barbecue in a well-ventilated area. Be aware of wind-blown sparks.

Keep grill stable
When using a barbecue grill, be sure that all parts of the unit are firmly in place and that the grill is stable.

Follow electrical codes
If electrically-operated accessories are used (rotisseries, etc.), be sure they are properly grounded in accordance with local codes. Electrical cords should be placed away from walkways or anywhere people can trip over them.

Use long-handled utensils
Use barbecue utensils with long handles (forks, tongs, etc.) to avoid burns and splatters.

Wear safe clothing
Wear clothing that does not have hanging shirt tails, frills, or apron strings that can catch fire, and use flame-retardant mitts when adjusting hot vents.

Keep fire under control
To put out flare-ups, either raise the grid that the food is on, spread the coals out evenly, or adjust the controls to lower the temperature. If you must douse the flames with a light spritz of water, first remove the food from the grill.

Be ready to extinguish flames
Use baking soda to control a grease fire and have a fire extinguisher handy. A bucket of sand or a garden hose should be near if you don’t have a commercial extinguisher.

Consider placing a grill pad or splatter mat beneath your grill.
These naturally heat resistant pads are usually made of lightweight composite cement or plastic and will protect your wood and composite deck or patio from any grease that misses the drip pan. Latitudes offers deck stones which provide a durable barrier to place your grill on.

Never leave a grill unattended once lit

Stay away from hot grill
Don’t allow anyone to conduct activity near the grill when in use or immediately following its use.
The grill body remains hot up to an hour after being used.

Don’t move a hot grill
Never attempt to move a hot grill. It’s easy to stumble or drop it and serious burns could result.

Tips for Safe Barbecuing Fact Sheet
Content courtesy of Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association.

Create the look of your dream deck in minutes with the latest deck design tool.

The sky’s the limit with this new Deck Visualizer deck design software. The Deck Visualizer lets you explore your imagination by selecting from hundreds of decking and railing combinations, designed with two industry-leading brands in mind: Deckorators and Latitudes.

Deck Visualizer deck design software lets your imagination take over. Simply select a deck scene, then begin to drag and drop (or click) endless combinations of decking and railing products to create your custom deck design. Along the way to your finished design, you can find out more details on any of the products simply by clicking the information icon.

Choose from wood decking, composite decking, deck railing and accessory options. Before you’re done, add some pizzazz with deck railing accessories such as baluster baskets or centerpieces and solar post cap lights. Want to know what your selections look like on a different deck scene? It’s easy. Simply select a new deck and any compatible product selections will transfer to the new scene.

The Deck Visualizer is compatible with most 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. Your Deck Visualizer print out will generate a summary of the products you’ve chosen as well as a final image, so you’ll know exactly which decking and railing products you’ve selected for your project.

Whether you’re prepping your house for sale or just looking to make a change, nothing lends a splash of the new and different than remodeling or updating your deck. Real estate agents know how popular decks are with prospective buyers and few home renovations will get you a higher return on your investment dollar. And if you’re staying put, a remodeled deck breathes new life into the enjoyment of your home. If you're considering selling your home, check out one of my previous blog posts—How to make your deck and outdoor living area stand out when it's time to sell.

Deck Railing Ideas
Consider replacing your old wood balusters near your pool decking with scenic glass balusters from Deckorators. They’re great for opening up the view and will make your deck seem larger without adding a single square foot. Plus they offer a clear unobstructed view.

Deck Lights
New deck lighting can make a dramatic difference when dusk arrives. From solar metal post cap lights to recessed deck lighting, Deckorators has a wide range of deck lighting to amp up the ambiance.

Decking Material
Don’t forget about the deck surface itself. Latitudes Capricorn composite decking mimics the look and feel of real tropical hardwood decking like mahogany and ipe. If your deck is made of pressure treated lumber, consider stepping up to Latitudes Intrepid composite decking for low-maintenance, superior durability and your choice of four natural colors with a reversible finish.

If you’re selling your house, buyers will love it. If you’re staying, your family will love it!

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

New outdoor deck lighting installation video from Deckorators, the leader in deck railing accessories. Deckorator's elegant low voltage, recessed LED deck lighting kit helps create an inviting environment on both wood decks and synthetic decks.

Outdoor LED deck lighting offers several benefits. LED lighting improves visibility on and around the deck or patio, provides aesthetic benefits and uses less electricity than traditional wired deck lighting. Since LED deck lighting is low voltage, it’s a great way to make your deck area more functional without having to incur outrageous electricity costs. Most importantly, deck lighting helps to comply with various local building codes and reduce potential trip hazards.

There are many additional benefits that come along with installing deck lighting. Installing deck lighting allows you to showcase your treated wood deck or composite deck to its best advantage. LED deck lights are the perfect application for highlighting specific areas on your deck such as stairs near or on pool decks, by hot tubs and around fountains or statues as well as other deck features.

• Never leave a burning fire unattended
• Always have a fire extinguisher or active garden hose handy
• Keep the deck area clear of flammable material
• If a hot ember lands on the wood or synthetic wood deck surface, make sure to remove it by dousing with water as it may blemish the deck surface or even worse, start the deck on fire

Making your home the hub for fun and entertainment can be as easy as creating the space and inviting folks in. But it’s important to make sure your outdoor living spaces are as safe as they are fun. If you already have a deck, give it a thorough spring checkup. See if you have any loose railings or balusters, and inspect the structure of your deck for rotting wood, corroded or loose fasteners and any mold and mildew.

If you find that your deck needs repairs, consider updating it with new composite decking and railing. Latitudes, a leading composite decking brand, offers several unique decking and railing combinations, each offering superior strength and resistance against the rotting, fading and warping that typically occur with wood due to varying weather cycles.

Low-maintenance composite decking never requires staining or sanding, and is available in several natural-looking colors. Latitudes Capricorn composite decking offers the rich look of tropical hardwood. From a safety standpoint, all of the deck surfaces are slip-resistant and splinter-free—definitely a consideration when you’re designing a space to entertain.

Are you planning to build a new deck this year? Before you begin construction, think carefully about how you’re going to use your deck. Create a space for an outdoor kitchen or barbecue area, and perhaps a place for relaxing and keeping an eye on the kids. You might even want to consider a place for dining.

You could also consider installing deck stones by Latitudes. Use these self-draining, real stone tiles to create a fire or grease barrier under your grill. You can also use these stones if incorporating a fire pit into your deck plans—making it a favorite hangout for teens and late-night marshmallow roasting.

When safety is paramount, be sure to plan for lighting. There are many new products that provide direct or ambient lighting to help make your deck and outdoor living area safer for you and your guests, even late into the night. Latitudes and Deckorators both offer low-voltage, LED recessed deck lights, which can be set to turn on automatically at dusk, adding a measure of security to your home.

Deck lighting using eco friendly solar lighted post caps come in styles ranging from the basic to the dramatic. The new Dynasty copper post cap light offers Asian flair in a Craftsman-inspired copper and gunmetal that offers illumination and high style. Post cap lights are designed to fit on virtually any railing post on your deck. And with solar caps, no wiring is required.

If your existing deck simply needs to be refreshed—or needs sturdier rails to make it safe—the easiest way to update is with new balusters or rails. Deckorators offers a durable, powder-coated aluminum exterior railing system that is sold in kits, complete with rails, post sleeves and post caps to help put a whole new face on a tired-looking deck.

This deck building season, consider spending some of your home improvement dollars on the safety of your deck and the outdoor living areas of your home. These entertainment spots not only beckon to friends and neighbors, but add safety and value to your home.

As the economy starts to come back around, many remodelers and deck builders expect to see a significant up-tick in requests from homeowners who want a new deck or want to update an existing deck to an expansive outdoor living area. Architects, landscape designers and building professionals are among those who typically stay up-to-date with the hottest deck trends.

Expansive, multi-feature decks

• multi-level decks that allow homeowners to add separate areas for entertaining
• incorporating unique deck patterns, deck insets, benches, built-in planter boxes and grill kick outs to make an outdoor living area one-of-a-kind

Outdoor living rooms, kitchens, grilling areas

• appliances, televisions, fireplaces and water features have become popular outdoor amenities for many homeowners
• many decks incorporate deck stones to protect the deck surface and add separation between outdoor kitchens and lounge areas. These natural stone deck tiles are perfect for use under grills and raised fire pits.

• co-extruded and other synthetic surfaces that are virtually impervious to stains and fading are becoming more common over their wood decking counterpart
• ultra-low maintenance decking requires less upkeep than treated lumber and standard composite lumber decking
• achieve a unique, exotic look with a composite deck plank that emulates tropical hardwood

Deck railing accessories

• add an extra touch of class with stylish post caps available in wood, metal or decorative glass
• unique railing infills like scenic glass balusters allow you to see with an unobstructed view to the pool or lake
• baluster accessories are inexpensive, ornate add-ons that turn an ordinary deck railing into a work of art

Deck lighting

• low voltage step and stair lighting is used for both ambiance and safety
• perfect for ambient lighting, solar post cap lights are already one of the top trends in accessorizing your deck
• installing rope lighting under deck railing highlights the rail and adds enough light to entertain throughout the night