Posts Tagged ‘decks’

Decking Wood Options

Sunday, June 21st, 2009

Natural durable wood

 

Certain tree species grow types of wood that are naturally resistant to the attack of insects and fungi.

The durability of these chemicals are deposited in the heart wood part of the tree as it grows. Three specific examples of these species are Redwood, Cedar and Cypress, which are all naturally durable woods. One important thing to mention is that only the heartwood (inner core of the living tree) is durable. The sapwood of all the species are susceptible to insect attack and wood rot.    

The actual heartwood that is most naturally durable of the species is the darker in color.

 

Wood/Plastic composition

 

Wood plastic composite material is a combination of wood, plastic and other natural materials combined into the shape of decking lumber. This is a relatively new product and is usually better known by the various brand names such as Trex, Choice Dek, or Smart-

Deck – or as composite lumber. Lumber made entirely from plastic with no wood _ our added

– plastic lumber – is also available but is not as commonly used for

decking projects. WPC lumber can be manufactured in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes and with

different surface textures.

 

Factors to consider

 

For many people, price is the single most important factor. Prices continually change, but in

general treated wood is the least expensive option, while WPC is

the most expensive. There are a variety of naturally durable woods

available; and some, particularly imported species, may cost even

more than WPC products. Because many people are not yet familiar with working

with WPC, there may be a slightly higher cost for installation. However, after installation, it may

require less maintenance than wood (see Maintenance below).

Outdoor Living Space

Friday, March 13th, 2009

Outdoor living space is a great way to enjoy every aspect of your home. Taking advantage of the space you have available outdoors is a great opportunity to add value to your home. It is also nice to have a place that you can retreat to when the weather is nice.

A patio or deck is a nice addition to any home. This is almost like adding another room to it. There are so many different options available for you to choose. Many different styles of furniture or décor will give you a unique quality to your new addition.

Many people are adding outdoor kitchens to go along with the space that they have outdoors. Built in grills and bars are great ways to enjoy the outdoors without having to leave your home.

It is important to remember to keep your outdoor living space in proportion to the rest of your home. For many years people were building structures such as decks that were just too big for the space they had available. This can actually take away some of the value that this space can add to your home. You still want to have some of your yard available after adding a deck or patio to your home.