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.
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".
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.
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.
Abaco tropical hardwood decking, from Aljoma Lumber, has a contemporary European design that features a traditional smooth finish on one face and an elegant moulded surface on the other. The moulded surface makes each board slip-resistant and cooler on the feet. Abaco has slotted sides for quick and easy installation of hidden fasteners. Use hidden fasteners designed for tropical hardwood that gap each board with the proper spacing and allow for natural expansion and contraction. By using a hidden fastener on Abaco, virtually all, pre-drilling is eliminated, making installation a breeze. The end result is a beautifully smooth and durable, fastener-free surface. Abaco tropical hardwood decking has a rich mahogany color similar to Ipe and is competitively priced compared to Ipe decking and other tropical hardwoods.
Abaco is the perfect choice for a beautiful wood deck, thanks to its inherent ability to resist rot, decay, termites, splintering, twisting and cracking. Abaco also features all the deck railing components needed to construct a beautifully matched railing. Abaco railing components include balusters, handrails and end posts.
The species used in Abaco are abundant, have fine textures and are dense, naturally strong, extremely durable, and will provide an elegant, exotic look for years to come. Abaco tropical hardwoods are kiln-dried for exterior use and have a superior fire rating when compared to redwood, cedar and pressure-treated lumber. Because Abaco is all-natural, it does not need to be chemically treated. And best of all, it's environmentally friendly.
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.
Installing deck skirting on your Latitudes composite lumber deck or pressure treated wood deck will help hide an uninteresting open area and will give your custom-built deck a more robust look and design appeal. Deck skirting also helps keep unwanted animals from getting under the deck, hides the treated lumber framing and adds privacy for raised decks with hot tubs.
Most deck skirting is constructed with lattice panels or vertical boards made from treated wood or composite decking. Lattice is available in both pressure-treated wood and plastic. Plastic deck lattice is available in several different patterns, sizes and colors. Wood lattice can be painted or stained to match or complement the deck or home’s color palette. Add a unique design touch on plastic lattice with easy-to-install tiffany-style glass stainlettes.
As a rule of thumb, you should make sure to include an "under deck" access point for taller areas being enclosed as you may want to use the free space under your deck as a storage area or for quick access underneath the deck.
After the leaves have fallen on and around your deck, consider giving your composite wood deck or pressure treated deck a thorough cleaning, especially in colder climates where snow could deter your decision to maintain your decking and outdoor living area. Cleaning your deck late in the year is always a good idea as it helps prevent the buildup of mold and mildew on the deck surface. By making sure all leaves and debris are swept off the deck surface before snow accumulates, your spring cleaning will be much easier.
It's important to clean bird droppings and common spills that happen throughout the deck season. You don't want these cleanable mishaps to turn into stains on your composite or lumber deck because they remained on the surface too long.
Scrub and rinse your deck Start cleaning your composite decking or pressure treated decking by scrubbing the surface with soapy water. Start at the top of the deck railings and work your way down to the deck surface. It's necessary to remove the dirt and debris that accumulates on the composite deck surface. This will also prevent the build-up of pollen that can cause mold and mildew growth. Pressure washers should only be used at lower pressures to wet and rinse synthetic decking and railing. For ground-in soil you'll need to apply a detergent, scrub the deck surface with a course bristle brush and rinse thoroughly with water.
Apply a quality deck cleaner to the surface Deck cleaners usually contain sodium percarbonate and a detergent, which is effective on normal dirt and grime and helps bleach out mold and mildew stains. Oxalic acid cleaners are effective on rust stains from metal patio furniture.
If you want to preserve and build a tree into a pressure treated lumber deck or composite lumber deck, then be sure to incorporate the tree into your deck design or deck plans.
Begin construction near the tree by running a beam in front and behind the tree between two double wood joists running perpendicular to the house surrounding the tree. The joists should then be fastened on both sides of the tree with their load being relocated around the tree. Install diagonal supports at the corners between the joists and the tree to allow for a round opening.
For an added touch, consider installing landscape lighting in the tree opening or recessed LED deck lighting in treated wood or synthetic decking planks surrounding the tree. Top off the deck railing posts with ambient lights using Deckorators solar post caps. When dark, lights will make the tree and surrounding deck railing stand out.
Build with caution when constructing a deck around a tree. A tree’s root system is very complex and can be easily damaged during construction, especially if you need to dig piers for vertical support. In addition, the root system of the tree must be able to receive enough water to live, so make sure planks are spaced accordingly (about 1/4 inch between each deck board). It’s important to leave enough room around the trunk of the tree (at least 3 inches on all sides) for growth. If designed and constructed properly, you’ll be able to enjoy an attractive deck featuring a unique, natural centerpiece.
Whether you’re prepping your house for sale or just looking to make a change, nothing lends a splash of the new and different than remodeling or updating your deck. Real estate agents know how popular decks are with prospective buyers and few home renovations will get you a higher return on your investment dollar. And if you’re staying put, a remodeled deck breathes new life into the enjoyment of your home. If you're considering selling your home, check out one of my previous blog posts—How to make your deck and outdoor living area stand out when it's time to sell.
Deck Railing Ideas Consider replacing your old wood balusters near your pool decking with scenic glass balusters from Deckorators. They’re great for opening up the view and will make your deck seem larger without adding a single square foot. Plus they offer a clear unobstructed view.
Deck Lights New deck lighting can make a dramatic difference when dusk arrives. From solar metal post cap lights to recessed deck lighting, Deckorators has a wide range of deck lighting to amp up the ambiance.
Decking Material Don’t forget about the deck surface itself. Latitudes Capricorn composite decking mimics the look and feel of real tropical hardwood decking like mahogany and ipe. If your deck is made of pressure treated lumber, consider stepping up to Latitudes Intrepid composite decking for low-maintenance, superior durability and your choice of four natural colors with a reversible finish.
If you’re selling your house, buyers will love it. If you’re staying, your family will love it!
Check out my other related deck blog post on getting the most out of your deck investment.
Deckorators Best Deck contest highlights creativity and superior worksmanship of both DIYers/consumers and professional builders. Each photo submission was ranked by creative use of deck building material and overall appearance.
Best Deck Designs - Winners There were many masterful entries, but the stunning, two-story New England composite deck from Josh Flowers (DIYer) captured the top prize due to its seamless implementation of decking and railing materials, resulting in two gorgeous decks. George and Caron Evans' DIY entry of a beautiful two-toned synthetic deck in Maryland earned them second prize for utilizing hidden deck fastener technology, low-voltage deck lights, Deckorators autumn-tinted Scenic Glass Balusters. Rounding out the top three was Steve Patterson's (professional builder) luxurious pressure-treated wood deck that displayed the stately nature of Deckorators to perfection with bronze classic deck balusters and decorative centerpieces. See all three winning entries.
Best Deck Designs - Honorable Mentions The level of work on display made choosing a difficult task, and there are three more decks we would like to show off as honorable mentions. Joe Wengrin, Brian Manthey, and Mark Ferguson all submitted exquisite examples as well. View each of these marvelous wood decks in the honorable mentions section.
Transforming your deck into a one-of-a-kind outdoor living area can be as simple as updating your existing deck railing or installing unique balusters to the railing itself. When you decide to build a new composite lumber or pressure treated deck be sure to think about the type of material you desire for the railing and the style of baluster infill that will suite your needs. Deck railings are one of the most prominent parts of any deck, and today there are many unique deck rail options made from different material.
Aluminum Deck Railing Aluminum deck railing from Deckorators is strong, durable and lightweight, which makes it a perfect choice on decks, docks and balconies or wherever durability is important. Deckorators’ aluminum railing is ultra-low maintenance, won't rot or corrode and is impervious to stains. What’s more, most Deckorators baluster styles are compatible with the Deckorators aluminum railing system.
Wood Deck Railing Wood is the most common type of deck railing material used. Its strength and natural appearance have made it a timeless favorite among homeowners. Wood can be cut into unique shapes, or it can be mixed with other unique accessories, such as glass or aluminum balusters. Unlike other types of deck railing, wood deck rails can be stained and painted to a specific color. Keep in mind; wood deck railing has its limitations. Wood railing requires regular maintenance like staining and sealing at least every few years; Not to mention, you may need to replace some wood railing components if they warp, split and become unsafe. But, keep in mind pressure treated lumber deck railing is typically the least expensive type of railing, so if other railing options are too expensive, treated lumber may be your best or most versatile option.
Composite / Synthetic Deck Railing Synthetic deck railing, such as Latitudes Intrepid railing, combines the natural beauty of wood with the durability of a synthetic (plastic). Composite deck railing is a popular choice among homeowners who like a wood look but desire a more stable railing material for varying weather conditions. Composite deck railing, available in a variety of colors, is usually made from a mixture of plastic (virgin and/or recycled) and wood flour material that typically last much longer than standard lumber railing. Composite decking railing should not split, warp, rot or become infested with insects. Most composite deck railings are sold in matching railing kits that allow you to mix and match with ornamental baluster styles to accentuate your outdoor living space and your home’s architectural style.
Vinyl Deck Railing Vinyl railing, like Latitudes Luster railing, is a durable, ultra low-maintenance option that stands the test of time. Vinyl deck railing is resistant to scratching, fading, insect infestations and cracking, and stands up well in extreme conditions. Vinyl railing can also be purchased in kits and is one of the more expensive railing options on the market.
An outdoor swimming pool combined with a pool deck is a great way to have fun and relax with family and friends from late Spring into early Fall, or maybe all-year-round depending on the climate. Outdoor pools and pool decks from the Midwest to New England are typically open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. But pools and pool decking in hot southern climates like Atlanta and Miami may be open most of the year.
Adding pool decking to your outdoor living area Whether you have an above-ground swimming pool or an in-ground swimming pool, there are a few things to consider before you add a swimming pool deck.
Which type of pool decking material do your prefer (low maintenance composite lumber, pressure treated lumber, tropical lumber, concrete, stone pavers, other)?
Choose a composite deck color or treated wood stain that complements your outdoor space
Pool deck safety is important Make sure you choose a pool decking material that has a slip-resistant surface. Composite decking such as Latitudes Intrepid has a reversible brushed/woodgrain finish that is slip-resistant. Abaco tropical hardwood decking has a ribbed / grooved top surface on one side which allows for good traction in wet areas such as around pools.
Since most pools are under full sun, it's important to know that the deck surface may become hot. I strongly recommend using hidden fasteners on pool decks. Protruding metal fasteners can heat up under direct sunlight and burn the bottom of your feet or even cut bare feet. If securing wood or composite pool decking with traditional top screw fasteners, always countersink the fastener's head.
New deck and deck railing products this year are more creative than ever. Deckorators recently introduced its spring product lineup, including fully integrated aluminum railing kits, recessed deck lighting and a wide variety of decorative post caps. The new Deckorators Aluminum Railing is designed to work with every Deckorators baluster style and features a lifetime limited warranty. Available in black and white, this exterior aluminum railing offers robust, eye-catching profiles and comes in 36" and 42" rail heights. With the beauty and durability of this rail structure, you'll want to make sure your deck railing plans include this easy-to install system on your pressure treated wood or composite lumber deck.
The easiest way to renew your pressure treated wood deck is to thoroughly clean it of dirt and debris. Also, make sure all the lumber fasteners are countersunk into the surface. Scrub rust marks and stains from the surface, then sand down any visible imperfections in the wood deck surface with a portable walk behind sander. These deck sanders make quick work when sanding wood decks and can be rented from your local equipment rental outlet.
If a board's appearance can’t be revived, consider flipping the board and using the other face. If rot has set in or a plank is split, then you should replace the treated lumber deck board to ensure safety. Stain and seal the entire wood deck surface to protect it from the elements. By staining and sealing the wood surface you'll help restore your deck's appearance. And hopefully, for a few bucks and a little elbow grease, you'll be able to squeeze a few more summers out of your pressure treated wood deck.
I’m often asked, “How much does composite decking weigh compared to pressure treated lumber decking?” On average, composite decking weighs 1.5X or 65% more per board than pressure treated deck boards. Composite decking weight will vary per brand, but with Latitudes brand composite decking you can use the chart below as a guide:
Latitudes slotted (grooved) composite decking will weigh slightly less than 2.64 lbs/ft, but you can use this weight as general reference.
So when constructing a new composite deck, or if you’re refacing / reskinning an existing deck with new composite lumber decking, make sure you take these weights into consideration when framing. Or in the case of reskinning a deck, you may need to add extra structural support to compensate for the added weight.
When you want to create a unique look for your outdoor living space, consider tropical hardwood decking from Aljoma Lumber; it's a sure-fire way to catch some attention. Tropical hardwoods come in a multitude of species. Aljoma markets one of their tropical species as Abaco decking. Abaco shares some of the same features and characteristics as other popular hardwood choices like Ipe and Cumaru (see Abaco / Ipe comparison).
Ipe and Cumaru, two durable and long lasting tropical hardwoods, help create an exotic look for your deck and outdoor living area.
Ipe Ipe is a strong, super-durable hardwood found in the Brazilian Amazon, Bolivia and Paraguay. It features a fine to medium texture and is warp resistant. When pre-drilled, Ipe holds nails well, is available in most popular decking sizes, and has a wide array of other uses such as: • Decking • Industrial and Decorative flooring • Carpentry • Exterior Joinery
Find out more about Ipe and other hardwoods available from Aljoma.
Cumaru Cumaru is a native of the forests of South America, with its heartwood being of a beige to light-brown color. It is sometimes purplish-brown in color. It is strong like Ipe, but features a course texture. Some alternate uses for Cumaru are: • Decking • Exterior Joinery • Flooring
For the past decade, homeowners have been investing more in their decks and outdoor living areas, adding on products like synthetic decking, fiber cement siding or new roofing. And not surprising, studies are reflecting changes to what many call investment improvements. In some areas, outdoor living improvements have matched or exceeded popular kitchen or bathroom projects.
Exterior replacement projects, which peaked in 2005, have made their way to the top of the rankings; and now they occupy the majority of the top spots in terms of cost recouped. One reason is that curb appeal influence prospective buyers. And outdoor projects like composite decks and pressure treated wood decks typically cost less than remodeling a kitchen or master bathroom. So why spend more on an investment improvement when your intention is to sell your property. I say spend wisely.
The 2009-2010 Cost vs. Value report published by Remodeling Magazine evaluates returns on investments for various home improvement projects based on regions of the country. Specifically decks, like other home improvements suffered in 2007-2008, but indicators are improving. Keep in mind the percentage listed on the return is the amount of money you would potentially get back if you sold your home within the 1st year after completing the project.
Here are two good examples of cost versus value for composite decking: East North Central Region (which includes Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin), if you spent $15,619 on a composite deck addition, you would potentially get back 62%, or approximately $10,000 back if you sold your home within a year.
The recouped percentage only gets better if you add a midrange composite deck in New England. If you spend $15,724 on a new composite deck you can expect to recoup a whopping 71.5% when your home sells. Naturally the longer you stay in your home; the percentage should rise accordingly each year.
Exposed decks take a beating from Mother Nature, and general wear and tear from moving outdoor furniture around, kids playing and occasionally the family pet. Whether your deck has constant sun beating down on its surface or you live in an area that typically gets a lot of rain or has harsh winters, your wood deck boards may wear faster than expected and become unsightly or even dangerous to walk on. Provided your deck structure (framework underneath decking boards) is solid and up to code, consider refacing / replanking the surface (deck boards)—It's more cost-effective and most DIYers can handle this type of project.
If the original deck builder installed the wood substructure correctly, like adding properly installed flashing to protect the frame and the ledger board (part of the frame that attaches to the house), you may be able to save your structure and simply reface the top with new pressure treated wood or composite deck boards—Regardless, make sure you check and replace damaged or rotting structural boards if needed. If you do find some structural issues, consider consulting with your local building inspector or hire a licensed builder.
If you can move your deck by simply pushing it from side to side, you may be facing some structural issues. Make sure your deck substructure is sound before adding new planks. By starting with a sound substructure, your project should be easier and more affordable than building a new deck from the ground up. Keeping your deck safe
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.
and bottom of the joist edge for maximum reinforcement.
It's important to clean bird droppings and common spills that happen throughout the deck season. You don't want these cleanable mishaps to turn into stains on your composite or lumber deck because they remained on the surface too long.
Begin construction near the tree by running a beam in front and behind the tree between two double wood joists running perpendicular to the house surrounding the tree. The joists should then be fastened on both sides of the tree with their load being relocated around the tree. Install diagonal supports at the corners between the joists and the tree to allow for a round opening.
Also, make sure all the lumber fasteners are countersunk into the surface. Scrub rust marks and stains from the surface, then sand down any visible imperfections in the wood deck surface with a portable walk behind sander. These deck sanders make quick work when sanding wood decks and can be rented from your local
equipment rental outlet.
surface or you live in an area that typically gets a lot of rain or has harsh winters, your wood deck boards may wear faster than expected and become unsightly or even dangerous to walk on. Provided your deck structure (framework underneath decking boards) is solid and up to code, consider refacing / replanking the surface (deck boards)—It's more cost-effective and most DIYers can handle this type of project.
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