Deck Season is Upon Us: Plan Your Dream Deck Now!

Spring is here, and with tax refund season upon us, what better time to invest in a project that will enhance your home and create lasting memories? Building a deck is an enhancement that extends your outdoor living space and is perfect for barbecues, backyard lounging, and more. At Ashby Lumber, we’re ready to guide you through the deck-building process, from designing your deck to helping you select the right materials to complement your home.

For DIYers, our Ashby team will take your measurement specs and determine the amount of material that you need, providing an accurate estimate of your costs upfront. If you decide you’d rather not build it yourself, we can connect you with a reputable local contractor. A professional takes the guesswork out of the project, allowing you to focus on design details and overall functional aesthetics. Whether you decide to DIY or hire a contractor, our experts on staff at Ashby are here to help you get started on the deck of your dreams today, so you can enjoy it all summer long and well into fall. 

Ashby Lumber’s Deck Project Guide

Here’s what you need to consider to plan your dream deck now:

1. Deck Design Dreamscapes

  • Sketch it Out: Grab some graph paper and a pencil. Sketch potential layouts, considering the size and shape of your deck, desired features like seating areas, built-in planters, and traffic flow. Don’t forget to account for local building codes and proximity to property lines. Of course, you can have a contractor do this for you but they also appreciate any design sketches you can provide.
  • Seek Inspiration: Browse online resources or how-to videos for design inspiration. Consider factors like your budget, available space, and desired functionality.

an outdoor deck with white railing, complete with a wooden adirondack lounge chair

2. Deck Decisions: Material Matters

At Ashby, we carry a vast lumber assortment and composite options. Some homeowners prefer the traditional look of a lumber deck. While lumber might also appear to be the budget friendly route, keep in mind you’ll need to do regular maintenance to keep your deck looking and functioning well, which adds up over time. Still, many homeowners want the asthetic of a real wood deck. 

Composite and PVC decks are popular with busy, time-pressed individuals due to their durability and low maintenance, along with a variety of colors and textures that mimic wood. While more expensive upfront, these decking options are incredibly durable and will never need sanding, staining or painting. Composite and PVC decking outperforms traditional wood with a 25-to-50-year life span, does not absorb water, is excellent for high moisture areas and is scratch resistant, resistant to weathering, chemical rotting, mold, and corrosion. Of the two, PVC is the most expensive option due to its longevity. Let’s look at a bit more detail on lumber and composite options:

Lumber

    • Redwood: A timeless and budget-friendly choice, Redwood offers a rustic aesthetic. The natural beauty of redwood and rich color can be maintained with clear sealers. Nothing looks more beautiful than a freshly stained redwood deck after being sanded and cleaned. For the enviornmetally conscious, there are sustainably harvested options available. At Ashby Lumber, we take pride in sourcing our Redwood exclusively from environmentally conscious partners committed to sustainability.  And Redwood offers natural resistance to decay and insects. It naturally contains oils/tannins in the wood which termites don’t like — so they leave it alone. It does require regular staining and sealing for longevity. With time, Redwood loses its vibrant contrast and becomes more of a medium brown color. Yearly maintenance is required to keep the color rich. Even during daily use, Redwood’s soft composition will acquire dents and ding pretty easily. 
    • Cedar: This wood offers natural beauty with a distinct scent. Cedar is generally a more attractive wood solution, with strong color tones and consistency that can be sanded, stained, and treated for a beautiful finish. Many people are surprised to find out that cedar (and other natural woods) are actually environmentally superior to synthetic products. Cedar has a net negative greenhouse gas effect (it removes these gasses from the atmosphere), and is renewable and biodegradable. It’s also produced from sustainably managed forests, so it doesn’t degrade our natural forests. naturally resistant to rot, decay and insect attacks, and resists moisture absorption, so it tends to last longer, needs less maintenance, and doesn’t warp or split as easily. A cedar deck can last for 15-20 years or more, depending on maintenance and environment. Though Cedar decking isn’t the least expensive material, it is an affordable wood, given its many advantages.
    • Ipe (Brazilian Walnut): One of the hardest woods available, resistant to rot, decay, and insects, Ipe wood is definitely unbeatable in terms of durability. The Wall Street Journal described it as hard as nails as it is known as the densest wood in the world. In fact, it is also referred to as “iron wood”. A rich brown color with a fine grain, Ipe is sustainable and eco-friendly. The surface of this hardwood is highly resistant against insect damage, mildew, and fire. The wood will also contract and expand less when compared to other decking materials. This makes the surface more uniform and maintains an aesthetically pleasing look. When it comes to longevity, Ipe has the ability to last for 50 years or more depending on weather conditions. The dense surface of Ipe requires very low maintenance. This is definitely great for homeowners who want to avoid the hassle of labor. You will also not be exposed to strong chemicals during build and maintenance – simply seal it using a rose-oil product. Eliminating spores and grime should be done annually using hydrogen peroxide. An Ipe wood that is left untreated will gradually transform into a silvery gray shade. This material has the capacity to retain less heat compared to PVC and composite counterparts. Significantly more expensive than most other decking materials, it is a very hard wood, requiring pre-drilling and special tools. Consider hiring an experienced contractor when installing Ipe.

Composite Decking

  • Trex: A well-known composite brand, Trex decking is made from 95% recycled materials, which includes a blend of recycled plastic and reclaimed wood fibers, and is resistant to rot, mold, and mildew. It is also fade-resistant and stain-resistant and non-slip. You won’t have to worry about your decking splintering or cracking. The material is very durable and will withstand the elements well. Generally speaking, Trex is a more affordable option than most other composite decking products in the market. All composites will get hot underfoot in direct sunlight. 
  • TimberTech composite:  This brand offers realistic wood looks and a proprietary, protective polymer cap that locks out moisture and locks in rich color, so your deck will look and perform beautifully without the worry and maintenance of wood. The warranty ranges from 25 to 30 years depending on the collection. The Terrain and Legacy collections offer beautiful options to complement any home. The Legacy collection stands out for its a textured hand-scraped finish and a complex blend of hues, no two boards in this collection are exactly alike. The Terrain collection has incorporated new and improved color blending technology, so these boards deliver sophisticated colors with a subtle grain pattern like sanded white oak and walnut for a versatile, natural wood look. Similar to other composites, it can get hot in direct sunlight.
  • Azek (A TimberTech company): This PVC Composite decking contains 100% plastic, unlike composite decking, which contains a mixture of two different materials. It is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and the pattern on the board is drawn manually, giving the boards a natural look.

PVC deck boards are less susceptible to the scratches that damage composite boards. Plus, while any material left in the sun will show fading, vinyl is also better protected against color fading than composite. PVC is the most expensive option but that is offset by its long life. PVC boards from the Azek line offer a lifetime warranty, so you can enjoy your dream deck for decades to come. And, Azek’s advanced PVC decking is a sustainable option.  Made in the USA from approximately 60% recycled material, including post-construction scrap like vinyl siding and trim, it’s fully recyclable at the end of its useful life. Keep in mind that vinyl decking can get hot underfoot in direct sunlight just like composite decking.

close up image of dark brown deck lumber, installed in a deck with white railing

3. Don’t Forget the Decking Extras!

  • Deck Railings: Safety first! Factor in railing height and style according to local codes. Cable railings offer a modern look, while picket railings provide a classic touch. When working with a contractor, they will advise you on local codes to keep your project compliant.
  • Deck Seating: Some homeowners like to add built-in benches to maximize space and create a cohesive look. Be sure to factor in comfortable seating depth and backrests for comfort during long gatherings.
  • Deck Shade Sails: Beat the heat with shade sails, these easy-to-install fabric structures provide sun protection without a need for permanent structures.

4. Remember Proper Permitting Power

  • Check it Twice: If you are building your deck yourself, before construction begins, contact your local/city building department to inquire about permits and inspections required for deck projects. This ensures that your deck meets safety regulations and avoids costly setbacks. If you hire a contractor, they will handle permitting. 

5. Decking Hardware: Choosing the Right Fasteners

When it comes to building a deck, selecting the right hardware is crucial for both safety and longevity. This is usually done at the same time you order your decking boards. Here’s a breakdown of key hardware considerations:

  • Screws vs. Nails: Opt for high-quality deck screws over nails. Screws provide superior holding power and withstand vibration better.
  • Stainless Steel or Galvanized: Choose corrosion-resistant fasteners like stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized screws. These resist rust and ensure a longer lifespan, especially for decks exposed to the elements.
  • Deck Ledger Fasteners: Special heavy-duty screws are required to secure the ledger board (the deck’s connection to your house) to the rim joist. Use the appropriate size and quantity as specified by local building codes.
  • Post-Base Connectors: Metal post-base connectors stabilize the connection between deck posts and footings. Compared to simple post anchors, they provide superior strength and protection against lateral movement.
  • Hidden Fasteners: For a clean, finished look, consider using hidden deck fastener systems. These clip onto the deck boards’ grooves and are secured with screws from the side.

Tip: When purchasing deck hardware for a DIY project, consult with knowledgeable staff at your local Ashby Lumber Store. They can advise on the proper type and quantity of fasteners based on your deck design and chosen materials.

6. Tax Time for Timber!

Think Smart: Consider putting your tax refund toward your deck project! It’s an investment in your home that will add value and enjoyment for years to come.

Building a deck is an achievable DIY or contracted project that requires planning, research, and the right tools, but results in an extension of your living space that adds pleasure and value to your home. By starting now, you’ll be ready to enjoy your creation this summer. So grab your sketchpad, unleash your creativity, and get ready to transform your backyard into the ultimate outdoor entertaining space! And remember, the experts at Ashby Lumber are here to help.