Low Maintenance Decking

It’s that time of year when homeowners are lured outside by the warm, sunny weather. Is your outdoor space ready to be enjoyed to the fullest? If your deck or patio needs updating, catching up on the top design innovations and trends will help you create an inviting area that will add value to your home investment.

This year’s leading trends focus on blending functionality with beauty to construct a stylish and usable space that requires little maintenance. To create the best outdoor space on the block, consider these popular ideas for your home.

Decorative post caps
A big trend in decking is beautification – taking your functional space and adding stylish elements that produce visual appeal. One easy way to incorporate this trend is by installing post caps. Mounted at the highest point on the railing, post caps are one of the most prominent features of any deck or patio. Deck and fence post caps like Deckorators VersaCaps give a polished, upscale look for your outdoor space. These one-size-fits-all caps have nested inserts that are compatible with wood, composite and vinyl posts, making installation simple. They come in a variety of colors and many are available with a built-in solar light. These unique post embellishments are sure to fit your color palette and will enhance your overall outdoor design aesthetic.

Fascia corners
Corner joints can separate over time, creating unsightly gaps. If you're looking for an easy way to spruce up your current deck, consider adding decorative fascia corners. Simple and unique, decorative fascia corners are an elegant way to adorn deck skirting and cover corner joint connections. Deckorators also offers two black powder-coated fascia corner designs - ridge and leaf - that install easily with screws. Fascia corners are an easy way to capture your own personal style while complementing your home's architecture.

Outdoor lighting
Incorporating lighting into your deck area is a big trend because it extends the time you are able to spend in your outdoor space. It also adds an element of safety in a visually pleasing manner. Look for solar powered lights to continue to be popular - you'll find this sun-powered option on numerous outdoor items such as string lights and fountains. Recessed deck lights are another popular lighting option - perfect for stairs because they softly illuminate steps once the sun has gone down.

Multifunctional furniture
Furnishing outdoor space is essential for creating a relaxing, comfortable environment, but it is also a big investment. That’s why more people are looking for multifunctional options that provide a variety of benefits. For example an outdoor sectional can serve as a large couch or be separated for multiple sitting areas. A small table serves double duty when it opens for hidden storage. An outdoor umbrella with solar lights provides shade during the day and soft light at night for easy all-day entertaining.   

Composite lumber decking
If it's time to replace your whole deck, you might want to consider using composite lumber decking in your new design. Composite decking continues to grow in popularity due to its low maintenance and durability. Today's composite decking is much different than past options because the designs closely mimic the natural look of wood. Latitudes composite decking, for example, features a more natural-looking surface with a realistic grain pattern available in a variety of colors. Plus it's backed by a 25-year stain and fade warranty, so it's guaranteed to look great on your home for a long time,
making it a wise investment.

By incorporating these top trends not only will you have a great outdoor space this year, but for many years to come.

With temperatures on the rise, does your mind often wander to the sunny days of spring? Maybe you long for the activities only warm weather can provide, such as outdoor barbecues, sharing ice cream with the kids, or watching the sunset from your favorite Adirondack chair. Many of these cherished activities center around one area of the home: the deck.

If your house doesn't have a low maintenance composite lumber deck, or perhaps the old wood deck you have leaves something to be desired, now is the perfect time to take action and make a plan. That way, when warm weather arrives, you're ready to start building and can enjoy every moment outdoors.

If you're not quite sure what your dream deck should look like, you can find inspiration by looking through photo galleries of different decks. Explore the treated lumber decking and composite lumber decking photo galleries and deck railing images to see a sampling of the options that are available.

For the past couple years, Deckorators has held deck design contests, drawing entries from across the country from both builders and DIYers. Submissions for those contests can be viewed on the Deckorators Flickr page for even more idea generation, as well as motivation to enter your new deck into this year’s contest.

Additions to Latitudes Composite Decking and Railing products and Deckorators deck railing and deck railing accessories products for 2012 have been added online, so there are plenty of new things to incorporate into your final dream deck design.

If you have decided to sell your home, that last thing you want is for it to sit on the market for a long time. Taking some home improvement steps before listing can make your house more attractive to potential buyers and put you in a better position to sell quickly.

So what do you need to do to ensure that listing your house floods your real estate agent’s office with showing requests?

1. Spiff up the entranceway
Every interested buyer will enter through your front door. Have you looked at your entranceway with a critical eye lately? Consider replacing old or sagging screens. If your front door is dirty or scratched, clean it up or add a fresh coat of paint. Sweep away dirt and grime and set out a new entrance matt. Oil any squeaky hinges. If you have plants or shrubbery leading up to your home, make sure that they are trimmed appropriately. A manicured landscape leading up to a welcoming front door will portray the positive experience of living there. An ugly or dirty entranceway can turn away buyers before they enter your house, meaning even if your home has the most amazing interiors, their minds may already be made up.

2. Create an outdoor oasis by adding eye-catching deck and deck railing accessories
Today’s buyer isn’t just interested in the inside of a home, but the outdoor space as well. Taking your deck or patio from drab to fab may only require adding a couple of stylistic extras. Start by adding beautiful deck and fence post caps like Deckorators VersaCaps to create a polished, upscale look for your outdoor space. These one-size-fits-all caps have nested inserts that are compatible with wood, composite and vinyl posts, and come in a variety of colors. Next, add unique decorative fascia corners that stylishly adorn deck skirting and cover unsightly corner joints. Deckorators new decorative fascia corners come in two designs and install quickly with screws.

3. Add outdoor extras for safety and style
Additions that are both beautiful and useful get noticed by potential buyers. Railings can add style to your deck, porch, patio or stairs, plus they add a safety element to your home. Deckorators CXT Deck Railing is the perfect choice because you get to choose from a variety of rail and baluster combos that emulate the look of real painted wood and are ultra low-maintenance for long-term durability and strength. Another addition to consider is LED deck lighting that makes your area stand out at dusk and provides just the right amount of light so outdoor space can safely be enjoyed any time of day.

4. Add modern colors to interior walls
Cracked paint or dated wall colors are sure to turn off buyers. For a small price, you can purchase plaster and several cans of paint to refresh dated looking rooms for a clean, modern feel. Not sure what paint colors are on-trend? Visit your local paint or hardware store for insight. Remember, it’s best to avoid anything too bold, so even if you love fire truck red, pick a shade a little more demur so you attract the most potential buyers.

5. Reduce clutter for clean, minimalist rooms
If you’ve ever visited a house that’s been staged, you know that it helps buyers envision what they might do with the room. To follow this example, you’ll want to make sure that you eliminate all clutter, clean up drawers and closets, stow away extra items like pillows and blankets, and reduce the amount of personal photography you display. Remember, you want buyers to visualize themselves in your home, not see your last family portrait and feel out of place.

Always keep in mind that you want to paint a picture for buyers of the wonderful life they can have if they purchase your home. If they have a good first impression and can envision their family enjoying each room in the house, they are going to want to submit a bid fast.

See more deck and railing accessory products to help sell your home at Deckorators.com or visit the Deck Railing & Accessories Blog.

Over the years Deckorators has built a solid brand reputation by offering innovation, durable deck railing accessories like balusters and post caps. Now Deckorators has broadened its product range to include CXT co-extruded composite deck railing kits and aluminum deck railing kits.

Showcased in the Deckorators booth at the 2012 Builders' Show in Orlando, both Deckorators CXT Railing System and Aluminum Railing System were highlighted using an assortment of Deckorators brand balusters, including the new copper colored round baluster, solar post caps and hardwood cap railing and Duo Connectors on the aluminum railing. See video.

Deckorators railing systems are designed to allow builders to incorporate all styles of Deckorators  baluster infills and post accessories into a project.

About Deckorators CXT Deck Railing
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.

About Deckorators Aluminum Deck Railing
Deckorators aluminum railing offers a durable black or white powder-coated finish that weathers the elements. The aluminum railing system with a robust profile and eye-catching appearance is backed by a lifetime limited warranty, designed to work with all Deckorators baluster styles, and available in 36- and 42-inch rail heights and both 6' and 8' lengths.

About Deckorators
Deckorators is the first name in deck railing and 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 company’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.

See all Deckorators 2012 Builders' Show featured product video clips.

Introducing the next generation of Latitudes co-extruded composite decking with an innovative new cap stock for a richer look and even better performance. The new decking features an improved scratch resistant surface that is extremely stain- and fade-resistant. Backed by an all new 25-year Stain and Fade Warranty, it offers a more natural-looking surface, realistic grain pattern and is available in two Capricorn® tropical colors in Koa and Arabica and three Captiva™ colors in gray, cedar and walnut.

Fortified with the same proven Strandex® technology, the new Latitudes co-extruded synthetic decking is the perfect balance of beauty, strength and ultra-low maintenance performance.

Latitudes Capricorn and Captiva composite lumber deck boards feature:  

• Specialized formulation of high-density polyethylene
• Advanced co-extrusion technology for ultra low-maintenance
• Durable, stain-and fade-resistant exterior finish
• 12', 16' and 20' slotted board lengths
• 16' solid length for stair and trim boards
• Slotted edges encapsulated on one side with a stain, fade and scratch resistant cap stock
• Solid edge boards capped on three sides

The current economy has many homeowners looking at how they can add value to their real estate investment. If you're considering a variety of projects to enhance your property, adding a new deck should be at the top of your list.

A deck is a valuable addition for many reasons. First, it expands your living space so your family can enjoy more time at home. Second, the right deck adds style to your exterior so your home is more visually appealing. Finally, it provides a solid return on investment - nearly 63 percent for composite decking, according to the 2011-2012 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine.

Why choose composite decking over wood? The upfront cost is more, but in the long run it could save you both time and money. Known to be low-maintenance and long lasting, composite decking is sure to provide season after season of family enjoyment. Buyers recognize this benefit as well, and it's definitely a positive should you ever decide to sell your home.

If you're worried that composite decking lacks the natural appearance of wood, take a look at Latitudes Composite Decking and Railing options for the perfect solution. With Latitudes, you get the natural look of wood, but in a hassle-free composite material. You'll find a variety of colors and finish types to choose from, so you can get exactly what you want for your home's exterior.

So when thinking about investing in your home, it's smart to put adding a composite deck at the top of your list. You'll get years of enjoyment out of the investment, and added value when it comes time to sell.

See my past blog posts entitled Selling your home out of season? A great deck makes a difference and How design details can make your deck unique.

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.

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.

Everyone loves eating in the kitchen, and this will hold true in your outdoor kitchen as well. Keep in mind that the grill will give off a lot of heat, and for comfort and safety, seating for your dining area should be kept well away from the cooking area. With deck stones defining the cooking area, it will be easier to guide guests to seating where they can watch the action but stay away from the heat.

Consider installing Latitudes deck stones under the eating area as both an accent and for ultra-low maintenance clean up. Built-in bench seating made from wood or composite lumber decking is another good choice for a dining area. When it comes to entertaining, you’ll want your guests to be comfortable, both at the grill and at the table when it’s time to eat.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out my past blog for deck railing ideas.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

Start designing your dream deck free with the Deck Visualizer.

Deckorators, creator of the Postcover, has launched a new and improved cast stone Postcover deck railing accessory line that boasts the look and feel of real masonry.

Deckorators Cast Stone Postcover mimics the look and feel of real stone columns, and is made of glass-fiber reinforced concrete for increased strength and superior protection against the elements. The Deckorators Postcover is designed to coordinate well with wood, composite or vinyl deck railing, wood deck columns and fence posts. Postcovers are hand-painted and come in three unique styles: Gray Cobblestone, Gray Fieldstone and Beige Stacked Stone. All-new cast stone post caps (sold separately) complete the personalized look. 

The 8x8 Postcover is easy to install over deck and fence posts, and is available in 42” or 53” heights. It secures directly to 4x4 or 6x6 cedar or pressure treated wood posts with shims, and ties into the deck’s rails using a rail connector. Deckorators Postcover carries a 15-year warranty against cracking, splitting or warping.

Our new Postcover line offers three realistic options for adding design detail to any deck railing. The Postcover will also help create an inviting entrance on a porch or add a decorative touch to a mailbox, fence post or other design feature. The Deckorators Postcover is innovative and low-maintenance, and costs much less than real stone. Incorporating Postcovers allows homeowners and builders to add a touch of affordable sophistication into their deck design.

Deckorators Best Deck Contest–Take 2 turned out some great looking decks including this masterpiece from Richard DeVuyst of Overland Park, Kansas.
A Winning Combination
A multi-level, composite wood deck with a firepit, outdoor kitchen, fourseason room, outdoor bar rail, and built in planters. Wood railings include Deckorators spindles throughout.

This wonderful deck and outdoor living area was clearly well-thought out. Its multilevel design incorporates a dining area, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, bench seating, ceramic tile bar rail, sunken hot tub and unique composite bench seating.

Low-maintenance synthetic decking in contrasting colors and designs was used to separate outdoor rooms. The stained wood railing with Deckorators balusters surrounds the deck with class. Factor in the tastefully appointed planters and this one-of-a-kind deck is brimming with character.

Congratulations to Richard and the other winners of Deckorators Best Deck Contest—Take 2.

For a look at the top three winning decks with descriptions and a complete gallery of all deck contest photo entries, visit the Deckorators contest page.

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.