Deck Post Caps

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".

I've touched on decorative post caps in many posts, but these ornamental accents are such a versatile and economical way to dress up a deck or fence post, that they deserve their own moment in the spotlight.

Post caps / post tops are easy to install, even for novice do-it-yourselfers. In addition to looking good, they also serve the purpose of protecting your post from the elements. Solar post caps can also add helpful illumination when you enjoy your deck and outdoor living area at night.

If you're looking for a quick, weekend project that will give your outdoor area a whole new look, adding decorative post caps may be the project for you. Here's the 411 on post caps:

Sizing
There are two basic sizes that fit most wood deck railing or fence posts: 4 x 4 and 6 x 6. Measure your railing post to see which size you need. Your post won't measure exactly 4 x 4 or 6 x 6 – that's the "nominal" size. Your posts or post cap opening will most likely measure 3.5 inches square or 5.5 inches square respectively.

Selection
Deckorators offers many styles of post caps to suit virtually every taste and match any decor. Solar post caps come in both glass and metal varieties and require no wiring or electricity. Convertible Post Cap Lights allow you to add light with a candle or a solar cell. You can also opt for a low-voltage lighting kit when you need brighter light to illuminate walkways or steps.

Metal post caps come in a variety of shapes, from a simple pointed cap to an ornate ball design, and finishes, such as copper, stainless or pewter. Wooden post caps are available in a range of designs and can be finishedto match your deck. Glass post caps add a touch of color with basic jewel tones, or a flash of elegance if you opt for Tiffany-style caps. Deckorators' Tiffany-style post caps are handcrafted, transforming your deck railing into a work of art.

Installation
Installing post caps couldn't be easier. Just apply an exterior-grade caulk to the underside of the cap and slip it over the top of the post. Use finishing nails as needed. Just remember to finish your wooden post caps - including the underside - before installation. See detailed installation instructions for various styles.

Maintenance
Of course, you'll need to maintain your post caps in order to preserve their good looks. Fortunately, maintenance needs are basic and easy to accomplish.

Refinish wooden post caps whenever you refinish your deck. For glass post caps, apply car wax or furniture polish to the copper-wrapped solder before you install the caps. This will prevent oxidation. Repeat the waxing process every three to six months, as needed.

Deckorators metal post caps come with a layer of lacquer for protection. Exposure to the elements and sunlight will break down the coating over time. Copper post caps will take on a natural patina. If you want to keep them shiny looking, apply car wax every few months.

Now that you know the basics of decorative post caps, pick your preferred post cap, choose the weekend for your project and get started on one of the easiest, most satisfying deck or fence upgrades you can do.

If summer’s approach has you thinking it’s time to remodel a deck, you might be looking for a cost-effective, high-impact way to do it. Taking your deck’s railings to the next level could be your solution.

Deck railing is more than just a safety feature to keep guests and kids from a nasty fall. It can also make a powerful design statement. Railing kits can make it easy to upgrade your deck with a whole new look.

Consider these railing upgrades:

Balusters
You have more choices and alternatives than ever when it comes to spicing up deck balusters. Aluminum balusters allow you to introduce curves, angles and interest into your deck design. They’re available in Classic, Colonial, Architectural, Estate and Traditional designs from Deckorators.

Create a true one-of-a-kind railing infill design using Deckorators Duo Connectors along with Classic or Estate Balusters.

Deckorators also offers scenic glass balusters. The clear, unobstructed view afforded by glass can make a deck seem more spacious. Deckorators sells them in two shapes: Frontier, which is straight with a beveled edge, and Contour, a graceful hourglass-shaped design.

Post caps
One of the easiest ways to add interest to deck railings is with ornamental post caps. Installing them can be as simple as applying glue to the top of the post and putting the cap in place. They’re a great way to dress up a railing without completely replacing it.

Ornamental post caps come in glass, metal, wood and planter styles. Solar post caps add another layer of interest by providing good looks and gentle illumination at night. They’re available in glass and metal styles.

Aluminum deck railing
If you’re slightly more ambitious and want a railing that combines good looks with enhanced durability, consider replacing wooden railing with aluminum deck railing. You’ll have a wealth of colors and design options to choose from, and the added satisfaction of knowing you’re enhancing your deck with a railing that will last years longer than a wooden one would. An added bonus – Deckorators code approved aluminum deck railing kit is compatible with all their decorative baluster styles, so your design options are limited only by your imagination!

Thanks to innovative railing options, it’s easier than ever to do a deck remodel. Your hardest task might be deciding just which great look to choose!

See my blog featuring a video on how to install Deckorators aluminum railing system.

Yes. The 2000 IRC introduced a requirement for illumination of all deck stairways. Exterior stairways shall be provided with an artificial light source located in the immediate vicinity of the top landing of the stairway, including the landings and treads. The deck lighting requirement is a bit vague, but lighting is required nonetheless. As always, check your local building codes and consult your building inspector prior to installation.

Two common deck lighting options:

1. Low-voltage step and stair lighting is used for both ambiance and safety.
2. Solar post cap lights are an attractive alternative and are perfect for ambient lighting.

Check out Deckorators low voltage deck lighting kit and solar post cap options.

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.

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.

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.

Solar post caps illuminate and color the enlightened way: Solar. No wiring. No load. Solar post caps gather the day’s energy for night's use and provide gentle, non-disruptive illumination for deck railings, stairs, overhangs and fence posts. Solar post cap installation is a breeze and the energy’s always free. See the complete lineup of Deckorators brand solar-powered deck and fence post caps.

See my blog on new deck accessory products perfect for spring projects.

Universal Consumer Products has added a second deck railing system to the Deckorators® brand lineup called CXT. The Deckorators CXT railing system is co-extruded for ultralow-maintenance and is available through Wolf, the newest distributor of Deckorators brand products. The CXT railing system will be showcased at the 2011 JLC Live tradeshow in New England, beginning March 25.

Deckorators CXT 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, CXT deck railing kits are 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.

Available in spring 2011, the CXT railing system will be showcased at the 2011 JLC Live Show in New England (Deckorators booth 1036 and Wolf booth 306).

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.

About Deckorators
Deckorators is the first name in deck railing accessories and the originator of the round aluminum baluster. The pioneering spirit behind the brand has kept the Deckorators name on the leading edge of designing products that create beautiful and unique decks. The brand started the low-maintenance aluminum balusters category with the Classic Series and has since led the industry with innovative products: Colonial balusters, offering the look of traditional colonial times; Architectural balusters, with the beautiful appearance of hand-forged wrought iron; accessories that provide the special accents needed to customize the look of your deck; Connector Series installation products that make installing Deckorators balusters simple and easy. The brand’s approach to developing exciting and distinctive deck rail and railing products allows customers the opportunity to express themselves on their deck as they do in their home.

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!

Deckorators aluminum railing offers robust profiles for an eye-catching appearance and is designed to work with every Deckorators baluster style. What's more, it's backed by a lifetime limited warranty.

The aluminum deck railing system is available in a black or white powder-coated finish with 36” or 42” rail heights. The system is sold in boxed kits for 6’ or 8’ sections. Both 22.5° and 45° stair rail bracket kits are also available.

Deckorators also offers 18 designer post cap options – including solar lit caps – to add the finishing touch on your deck building project.

Check out this video to see how easy installing the Deckorators aluminum railing system is.

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.

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 leading brand of deck and fence accessories, has designed and introduced the first tropical hardwood cap rail for its aluminum deck railing system. Also, several new compatible solar, Tiffany-style glass and metal post cap accessories have been added to the aluminum railing system. 

Deckorators aluminum railing system with tropical hardwood cap rail is available in code-compliant 6-foot deck railing kit and an all-new 8-foot kit. The innovative cap and rail insert system allows installers to snap on the cap rail without visible fasteners. The tropical hardwood cap rail features a moulded appearance and is finished with an oil-based stain.

“The number of choices within the Deckorators lineup is a testament to our commitment to providing unique, attractive deck railing options and accessories in our offering,” said John Hess, director of sales for Universal Consumer Products. “The tropical hardwood cap rail for the Deckorators aluminum railing system provides a stylish appearance, which will appeal to deck builders and homeowners alike.”

Available in spring 2011, the new tropical cap rail kit and aluminum railing post caps will be showcased at the International Builders’ Show.

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.