Deck Post Caps

Deckorators, the nation’s leading brand of deck balusters and decorative railing accessories, has introduced another industry first called VersaCaps™ — decorative post caps with nested inserts that allow for a snug fit over the most common size deck and fence posts.

With new VersaCaps, post size is no longer a barrier when choosing the right post cap for your project. VersaCaps come with three inserts perfectly nested inside the base, making them adaptable for virtually any post ranging from 3-1/2”x3-1/2” to 4-5/8”x4-5/8”.  The true-fitting nested inserts take the guesswork out of matching up proper post cap size. VersaCaps are compatible with wood, composite and vinyl posts and are available in traditional solar, solar band and high point pyramid options and in a variety of colors.

Deckorators full line of VersaCaps will be available in the spring of 2012 and showcased in the Deckorators booth (W429) during the International Builders’ Show in Orlando.

Deckorators deck, railing and fence accessories are available through an established network of building material retailers in the United States and Canada. Visit www.deckorators.com for complete information.

Basic maintenance to prep your treated wood deck for cold weather can help ensure it will endure the cold or snowy season in great shape. Thoroughly clean the decking, posts and railings using an appropriate cleaning product. If your deck boards and deck railings are made of wood and showing some wear, consider giving them a fresh coat of stain or sealant. It’s also a good idea to check for nail heads popping up, loose or damaged boards, posts, and railings. Better to repair them now so you’re only worrying about how to enjoy your outdoor living space and not spring maintenance when the weather warms up again.

See my past blog for tips on cleaning snow off a composite lumber deck.

If you're having your deck built or doing it yourself, deck building requires planning and forethought. Even the best deck plans can get off to a bad start if you don’t understand how your deck construction components fit together.

Deckorators offers special connection products to make installing these glass baluster infills on a wood deck rail quick and easy. A few easy steps will get your deck rail up and looking good in no time.

Before you install Deckorators Scenic Glass Deck Balusters, check with your local building inspector to verify the product made with 5/16-inch tempered safety glass matches code requirements. Your inspector can also guide you on the proper baluster spacing for deck rail construction in your area.

STEP 1: Measure and Cut
Two different rail configurations may be chosen when incorporating Scenic Glass Balusters in your deck project. If you are using 6x6-inch posts, twin top and bottom rails should be built with 2x4 lumber.

If you’re using 4x4-inch posts, choose 1-1/4-inch lumber for the twin rail construction.

STEP 2: Determine Openings
First measure the rail opening, post to post. Attach outside top and bottom rails to the posts. Scenic Balusters will be installed between two rails on the top and bottom.

Check local building codes for railing to post attaching guidelines. Keep in mind that 6 feet is the maximum recommended span for railings.

STEP 3: Connect Balusters
Measure and mark the center point between rail posts, both on the top and bottom rail.

Using a cordless drill, attach the first baluster with the stainless steel screws provided to the inside of the top and bottom rails. Turn screws only until rubber grommet starts to mushroom. Use caution not to over- tighten.

STEP 4: Placing deck rails
Choose a separator board, possibly a 2x4, which creates a 3-1/2-inch spacing between each baluster. Mark for installation of remaining glass balusters. Ideally, spacing will remain consistent across the length of the rails for the best appearance. When you have a pleasing spacing, attach the remaining balusters with provided screws.

STEP 5: Inspect
Install the inside top rail, covering the top of the balusters. This board should be attached directly to the 1st board that has the glass attached to it. It will not attach directly to the scenic glass balusters.

Install the inside bottom rail, same as above and add a rail cap to give the railing a professional, finished look.

See complete detailed instructions with illustrations here.

Using other deck baluster styles? View this blog post on proper baluster spacing.

See Deckorators full line of deck railing balusters.

Building a 2x4 deck railing? Consider using Deckorators deck railing connectors for a secure connection of the top and bottom rails.

These deck railing connectors create a strong and effective support to the rail. The railing connectors make attaching standard 2x4 rails to the deck post quick and easy. Made from heavy duty nylon, these connectors are available in five colors including black, cedar, redwood, gray and mahogany to accommodate virtually any type of 2x4 deck rail system.

• Durable plastic is pre-drilled for accurate attachment of the rails to the posts.
• Works with composite deck railing, wood deck railing and metal deck railing.
• Stainless steel screws are provided to help ensure a solid connection.
• Railing connectors are designed for installation of 90° railing to posts.
• Multi-angle railing connector (shown far right) is designed for installation of 22° to 45°railings.

Check out Deckorators full line of connectors and accessories.

See this blog on choosing stylish deck railing balusters.

In a perfect world, no one would ever have to face the challenge of trying to sell a house when there’s snow on the ground and the trees are bare. In reality, people have to sell and buy homes throughout the year.

While winter may not be the optimum season to showcase your landscaping, there is one improvement you can make that will help you boost your home’s outdoor appeal no matter what the season: a deck.

When potential buyers visit your home in winter, they might not be able to envision how green and lovely your backyard will look come spring. But they will be able to see with their own eyes the square footage that a deck adds to the home’s living space.

Decks, patios, sunrooms and porches have always been popular with home buyers, but real estate agents say that too often those spaces are neglected or not used to their best advantage. Yet outdoor improvements like a deck can significantly enhance your home’s value and appeal. In fact, at the time of resale, a deck will recoup, on average, about 73 percent of the original cost of building it, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report.

"Anything that adds living space adds value, and the least expensive way to gain space is to build a deck or turn the one you have into an outdoor room by staging it so that it flows seamlessly with the rest of the house," says Mary Beth Harrison of The Harrison Group, a Dallas-based real estate agency. "A great deck can set your home apart from others with the same interior floor plan or square footage, and deck additions typically add value when it comes time to sell."

The cooler temperatures of fall and early winter make the season a great time to add a deck to your home. Or, if you already have a deck, you can enhance its appeal by adding simple touches and accessories.

A bonus space - for example, a tiny deck or rarely used balcony off a master bedroom - can be transformed into a romantic getaway by staging it with cozy, cushioned seating and a raised firepit. You can safeguard your deck and add designer style with Latitudes deck stones, 16-inch interlocking square tiles made of natural slate or granite. Deck stones can provide an effective fire barrier that's an asset under firepits or grills, or when used to create an outdoor kitchen.

Lighting is another way to boost appeal. LED deck lighting kits, like those offered by Deckorators, are both practical and visually appealing. Adding lighting to a deck can be an important safety feature, and also helps create a warm, welcoming mood for evening entertaining.

Another improvement that speaks to both safety and visual appeal are deck railings. Decorative railings with ornate balusters, post caps and postcovers can give virtually any wood or composite lumber deck a distinctive look for a modest investment.

More than ever before, people look at their decks as outdoor entertainment areas. Latitudes Composite Decking and Railing and Deckorators, a leader in decking railing systems and deck accessories provide many ways to turn the inside out – For some, it's a kitchen; for others, a living room. Decks can be party spaces or quiet retreats. With so many different types of deck materials, lighting, rail systems and decorative accents, it’s possible to turn a plain deck into a great outdoor space.

"Potential home buyers always react positively to nice decks that look like a great place to hang out," says Harrison. "From a buyer's perspective, if all else is equal, it's true that the home with the best deck wins."

See blog entitled "Update your deck, add value to your home".

Beautifully built for the long haul, Deckorators CXT Deck Railing features:

• Co-extruded cap made from two layers of materials and incorporates Strandex® technology inside for superior long-term performance
• The consistent cap stock finish looks like real painted wood, is ultra-low maintenance and provides long-term durability and strength
• Unique “U-bracket” design provides a fastener free appearance in this easy-to-install alternative to other railing systems on the market
• Two distinct profiles and three colors: Contemporary and Colonial in white, black and an all new bronze
• 15 deck baluster options in varying styles and colors, and four eye-catching post cap styles also in white, black or bronze
• Compatibility with a wide range of Deckorators railing accessories for maximum design flexibility
• 20-year limited warranty

Best of all, Deckorators is extending the rebate program by offering up to $500 in customers rebates through December 2011! View details here.

If you live in Minnesota, Iowa or surrounding area and are interested in Deckorators CXT deck railing kits, find a dealer in your area by visiting the "Where to Buy" section on the Deckorators web site.

Locate a Deckorators deck railing contractor in your area.

Adding a built-in bench to your deck seating area evokes the charm and convenience of a window seat while providing additional seating for family gatherings and entertaining.

You can enhance the cozy atmosphere of your outdoor family room with the addition of a fire pit. If adding to a deck, define the space for your chiminea or fire pit and protect your deck by using Latitudes Deck Stones. Available in 16-inch square Smoke slate or Riverstone granite tiles, the deck stones interlock, self-drain, require no mortar and can easily be installed on new or existing conventional wood-framed decks. See Deck Stones installation video.

Lighting is another key element of your indoor family room, and it’s just as important in your outdoor space. Versatile outdoor lighting is not only an important deck safety feature; it can help create the perfect ambiance for evening entertaining. Deckorators recessed deck lighting kits are ideal for building into stairs, step-downs, doorways or wherever else you need ambient lighting.

Another way to create mood with light is by adding solar post caps on your deck railing. Available from Deckorators in glass or metal, these solar-powered post caps can illuminate a rail or fence post while creating a warm, comforting glow.

Create a spa-like feel by incorporating a decorative garden area complete with a water feature. Add plantings that provide a splash of color and fragrance along with functionality. Water features provide a subtle, calming sound and can also help soften unwanted noise caused by roads and other sources. Use various plant types to create space definition, cover from wind and sun or a sense of seclusion and visual privacy. Add a bird bath, like the serpentine jade version from Outdoor Essentials, to get the birds singing.

With just a few simple enhancements and the right accessories, you can turn your outdoor space into an outdoor family room the whole family will enjoy.

See blog on landscaping on and around a deck

Outdoor Essentials has added a full line of ornate vegetable markers, garden stakes and bird silhouettes to its product offering. Showcased during IGC 2011 in Chicago, these unique metal cutouts are designed for practicality and visual appeal for gardens and landscapes.

About the products
The rusted patina markers and garden stakes are made from laser-cut recycled metal. Each vegetable marker is welded to a 12-inch-tall metal stake and available in seven flat metal profile designs. The ornamental garden stakes are welded to 18-inch-tall metal stakes and are available in seven flat metal designs.

Outdoor Essentials' rusted metal  bird silhouettes are available in five profiles and attach atop fence or deck posts, mailboxes and other perches.

Outdoor Essentials – Taking style outdoors
Outdoor living areas are becoming preferred spaces for family gatherings and simple relaxation. And it's important to have a sanctuary in today’s fast-paced world. This line of fun and elegant garden products lets you transform an ordinary garden or landscape into a vibrant, beautiful, outdoor environment.

Outdoor Essentials' products are available through a network of lawn and garden retailers in the United States and Canada.

Visit www.OutdoorEssentialProducts.com for complete information.

Blocking a treated wood deck post is critically important for making sure your wood railing, composite lumber railing or metal deck railing stays secure for the life of the deck. Blocking/bridging is installed into the side framing mainly to control lateral movement. If you have to run handrail in the direction of the joists, use blocking to create your box and bolt through the post and the blocks. The bridge will help keep the outside joist from deflecting when you lean on the handrail.

Installing a post when the railing runs parallel to the joists
First mark the location of the post with a carpenter's pencil on the interior rim joist. The next step in securing your 4x4 or 6x6 lumber deck post is to measure the distance between your outer rim/band joist and your first interior joist beam. Pre-cut two pieces of pressure treated 2x6, 2x8 or 2x10 wood blocking (often cut from scrap) to a length that will fit loosely between the joists. If the cut pieces have to be pounded into place, cut an 1/8- to 1/4-inch to avoid bowing the joists. Each piece will roughly measure 14½ inches long for joists installed 16 inches on center.

Next, place the treated wood blocking on both sides of the deck rail post markings. Nail the blocking in place with two galvanized nails at each end. Measure, cut and install a small piece of wood blocking as a cross member which completes the box. Make sure this small piece fits into place easily then secure with two galvanized nails on each end.

Fit the pre-cut deck rail post into place while making sure it sits flush with the bottom of the outer rim joist. Tack the post into place with two nails on each side (or use a clamp)

Next, drill ½-inch pilot holes and install two ½-inch galvanized carriage bolts (approximately 8 inches long) and matching washers and nuts (do not over-tighten). The pilot holes should be positioned no closer than one inch from the top and bottom of the joist edge for maximum reinforcement.

Installing a post when the railing runs perpendicular to the joists
This method is similar to the parallel install version except you need to install only one cross-member – as seen in image two.

In both cases use a post level to make sure each post is plumb. Insert a shim if needed prior to cinching the carriage bolts.

By installing the rail post into the framing and then blocking around the post, it makes a for a more sturdy and durable connection, which in my opinion works best.

As always, check your local building codes to make sure this deck post installation method is acceptable in your area.

Long gone are the days when deck railings could only be wood. Today, you’ll find residential deck railing options in kits made of aluminum, composite material and vinyl or acrylic. Each material has its unique advantages.

Deckorators’ aluminum deck railing is durable and lightweight. It’s ultra low maintenance and won’t rot, corrode or stain. It’s a great choice for decks, docks, balconies or anywhere that strength and durability are especially important.

If you like the look of wood but crave superior low maintenance and durability, composite deck railing like Latitudes Intrepid can be an appealing option. Latitudes composite deck railing mimics the look of wood but offers the stability and durability of a synthetic material. It won’t split, bow or warp like wood can. Deckorators CXT Railing looks like real painted wood and provides an ultra low maintenance exterior top cap for durability and strength.

Vinyl deck railing, like Latitudes Luster railing, resists scratching, fading, insects and cracking. It’s a good option for decks in extreme climates or as an accent to tropical hardwood decking.

See this blog post on choosing the best deck balusters for your deck railing.

Deck railing accessories can be the crowning touch on your new railing. Decorative post caps can change the look of any railing, and install quickly and easily. Whether you opt for metal, glass or even planter post caps, adding ornamental post caps to your railing can really create a one-of-a-kind look.

Faux stone postcovers are another way to enhance the look and personality of your deck railing. Deckorators cast stone postcovers fit over the standard 4x4 or 6x6 treated wood posts of your deck railing, and provide a realistic appearance of authentic stone without the cost. Top them with a matching post cap, and it’s easy to create a memorable, unique look. Postcovers work with 2x4 wood railings, composite lumber railing, and Deckorators aluminum and co-extruded railing systems.

Cooler weather can make outdoor projects easier. Upgrading your deck railing is a project that will make your old deck look new again and help create an outdoor environment you’ll enjoy year-round.

For more ideas, check out the Deckorators Deck Visualizer interactive program to “try on” different railings, balusters, post caps, decking and other unique deck accessories.

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• add unique features to railing with decorative post caps or postcovers
• incorporate metal or glass baluster infills to your deck rail
• built in bench seating
• incorporate deck stone transitions
• install low-voltage or solar deck lighting
• place colorful plants on your deck and stairs
• incorporate colorful outdoor furniture
• add a portable water feature or fire bowl

DIYer/homeowner, Dan Simpson of Manchester, New Hampshire recently constructed a masterpiece deck using Deckorators CXT Railing while incorporating compatible Deckorators glass balusters and solar post caps for great looks and safety.

"I'm very happy with the railing and have received nothing but compliments," said Mr. Simpson.

About Deckorators CXT Deck Railing System
Deckorators CXT deck railing emulates the look of real painted wood and combines proven Strandex® technology on the interior with an ultralow-maintenance exterior cap stock for long-term durability and strength. Deckorators CXT Railing boasts a 20-year limited warranty.

Available in two distinct profiles, Contemporary and Colonial, the CXT railing is offered in 6- and 8-foot lengths and in 36- and 42-inch installed heights. The unique “U-Bracket” design provides a fastener-free look and makes installation easy, especially on stair rail applications. Pre-drilled rails increase the speed of installation by taking the guesswork out of baluster spacing.

Best of all, Deckorators CXT Railing allows deck builders to work with several popular Deckorators railing baluster infills and post accessories. In addition, Deckorators offers four eye-catching post cap styles, including Tiffany-style Mission Glass, Copper, Solar and Traditional.

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.

When a friend was looking to spruce up the posts of his treated lumber deck, he was looking for an easy, high-impact option that was both functional and eye-catching. So, I recommended the Deckorators brand of metal post caps. Deckorators has some unique solar deck lighting options to choose from and the convertible solar post cap was the perfect choice.

For this particular deck lighting need, we went with a round copper post cap that sits atop the deck’s 4x4 railing posts. The post cap is referred to as a convertible post cap because it provides a deck with ambient lighting at night, using either the solar cell (included) or a lit candle.

The top of the convertible post cap lifts off so you can set a candle inside. The smooth copper finish makes the deck and outdoor living space look more refined and the lighting is just what this deck area needed.

Looking for post cap options that inspire you to update your deck railing? Visit deckorators.com or check out some of my past blog posts on post caps:

• Dress up a deck with post caps
• Illuminate with solar post caps
• Add function and beauty with post caps

Typically, you’re going to build your treated lumber deck, tropical hardwood deck or composite lumber deck wherever your pool is. But how will you connect that pool deck to the house? Your objective is to provide swimmers with easy access to the pool, without losing the appropriate scale for your backyard space.

Choose a pool that works for your area. The size and style of your pool and pool deck will help shape your pool entertainment area. Adding a combination of functional add-ons like Deckorators low voltage deck lights and solar-lit post caps, privacy lattice, stepping stones and attractive landscaping will make your pool deck area inviting to guests.

Pool Deck Safety: Build smart. Keep safe.
Most municipalities have safety regulations governing what you use around your pool, such as privacy fencing and deck railing, to restrict open access. Before you begin construction on your pool deck, be sure to check your local building codes. Pool deck lighting requirements should also be considered (solar post caps and low-voltage deck lighting from Deckorators can help address these) as well as gate latch/lock requirements.

Enjoying your deck is definitely a high point of summer. But if you really want to ice the cake and put a big cherry on top, you need great landscaping to go with that awesome deck.

Landscaping on and around you deck not only adds to the deck’s visual appeal, it can enhance usability. Many landscaping improvements are easy enough to be done in one weekend.

Here are some deck design ideas to create the perfect environment on and around your deck:
Planter post caps
Made of cast stone, Deckorators’ planter post caps add the charm of flowers and greenery to a deck. Available in copper round and square black finishes, these unique post caps fit standard 4 x 4 or 6 x 6 wood posts. A drain hole ensures plants thrive longer. Helpful hint: Since decks get a lot of sun throughout the day, fill your planter post caps with flowers that thrive in full sun. Fill and strategically position flower pots, railing planters and hanging baskets accordingly…

Stylish stepping stones
Stepping stones are both beautiful and practical. Arts and Crafts-style stepping stones create an exotic look in your yard or garden and provide a smooth, level walking surface leading up to your deck. Outdoor Essentials offers them in smooth serpentine jade stone or hand-crafted Tiffany-style serpentine jade pieces.

Garden post caps
If you’ve put a lot of work into landscaping around a deck, you’ll want a smart, good-looking way to protect it. Garden post caps fit the bill, adding decorative flair to very functional garden posts. The posts help define a boundary between planting beds and walking paths, protecting vegetation from garden hoses and wandering feet.

Garden post caps, made with serpentine jade add charm and style. Or, opt for solar post caps for a soothing glow that provides gentle illumination at night.

Lattice
Another landscaping accent that is both beautiful and functional is lattice. Dimensions plastic lattice is available in a variety of colors, sizes and styles, and can be used in many ways to add style and privacy to your deck and landscaping.

Plastic lattice can be a decorative privacy screen around a hot tub or pool deck, a garden accent or a foundation for vines and other greenery. Most types of lattice snap or slide together and all you’ll need to assemble them is a screwdriver.

Add stainlettes to your plastic lattice and enhance the beauty of your area with decorative Tiffany-glass accents.

Landscaping around a deck can be the crowning glory on your outdoor environment. Fortunately, with the right accents and a weekend’s worth of work, it’s easy to create a beautiful backdrop for your deck.

Check out one of my past blog posts entitled "Outdoor improvements offer great return on investment".

Deckorators, the industry leader in post caps / post tops for decks and fences, offers many post caps in various shapes and sizes, but the most common sizes are 4x4 and 6x6, which are made to fit a standard 4x4 or 6x6 pressure treated lumber or cedar post.

What are the inside dimensions of post caps?
The inside dimensions of the standard 4x4 post top measure 3-5/8", and the inside dimensions of the standard 6x6 measure 5-5/8". Deckorators produces a limited selection of other opening sizes, such as 4-5/8", 4-7/8" and 6-1/8". In addition, Deckorators makes a 4x6 post cap (with inside dimensions of 3-5/8x5-5/8) in two all-wood styles - Newport High Pyramid and Newport Classic. They also offer a 8x8 copper-topped post cap with an opening size of 7-5/8" and a 10x10 cap with an opening size of 9-5/8". All of these special sizes are available in cedar and can be stained to match the color of your deck. Redwood 4x6 post caps are also available from Deckorators.

What are the dimensions of a standard 4x4 or 6x6 wood post?
The lumber industry defines standard wood post sizes as 4x4 or 6x6. The outside dimensions of the standard 4x4 measure 3-1/2" x 3-1/2", and the outside dimensions of the standard 6x6 measure 5-1/2" x 5-1/2".