2011年11月30日 星期三

Deck Building with Alternative Materials


On a warm summer evening, with the smell of barbeque wafting over from the grill, it's difficult not to appreciate the simple beauty of a nice outdoor deck. Once the deck building is completed, the main challenge will be maintaining the deck. There are a variety of building materials that can help you maintain your deck over the years.

Using alternative materials for your deck building project can make maintenance easier at the same time that you provide for environmental responsibility concerns. Lumber come from trees, and incase you're totally lost in the loop of corporate-biased television programming, you're already aware that the depletion of our forests continues to increase at an alarming rate.

Luckily, there are new technologies and alternative building materials that allow one to take on a deck building project with renewed gusto, for they offer environmentally sound materials as well as deck building materials that will last for years and years, with much less maintenance than the traditional wood deck.

Trex is one of the first deck building companies to incorporate recycled materials into their deck pieces. A combination of reclaimed plastic from consumer products and shopping bags are combined with wood fiber that may otherwise go to waste. These materials are then formed into planks and installed in very much the same way that traditional deck wood planks would be installed.

The Trex deck building materials are extremely resistant to ultraviolet (UV) radiation as well as all forms of weather and exposure related issues of damage. The boards will not chip, splinter, warp or rot. The plastic portion of the mixture protects the wood from rotting. As such, there is absolutely no need for applying a sealant or deck paint.

So instead of reapplying deck paint for weather sealing varnish, you can do nothing! These post-consumer recycled deck building boards make horrible termite food as well! With all of these benefits, to the environment, the pocketbook and future weekends NOT spent maintaining your wood deck, it's a wonder that anyone is still building the traditional wood type of deck at all.

There are other companies and manufacturers of similar deck building supplies and materials, such as the TimberTech company. This companies deck material is similar to that of Trex, but wood fiber is mixed with formulated polymers to effect the same type of durable, pest and maintenance resistant deck materials.

Then there's Dream Deck, with a completely vinyl deck building product. Like the two companies mentioned above, these products are completely warp, splinter and weather resistant. Plus, Dream Deck offers a number of deck accessories to compliment your deck area.

Each of these companies, as well as several others not mentioned, offer a variety of colors and finishes from which to choose. Take your time and shop around, as each of these companies offer different deals and each type of deck building material has its own installation guidelines and potential complications.




Nicky is a do-it-yourself landscape enthusiast who has written numerous articles for various landscaping books on helping individuals plan their home design projects. He has created [http://www.loneoak.net] which consolidates all of his knowledge into colorful illustrations with free installation tips for various deck ideas [http://www.loneoak.net].





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Using Hardwood Decking in Your House


Hardwood decking has become very popular these days and has witnessed a manifold increase in use across the United States. The high quality of the hardwood can give the decking a very polished appearance. The sudden jump in its popularity has been facilitated by the easy availability of quality woods such as Ipe, Yellow Ballau, Oak timber, Trex, etc.

Softer woods, while being easier to work with, don't quite offer the refined, polished look that most home owners desire. This problem is offset by the use of hardwood. Hardwood is somewhat difficult to work with, owing to its density. But in the long run, this higher density translates into more durability, which makes the extra initial expense worth the price in the long run. This is a great advantage when you consider the fact that the decking is usually subject to adverse weather which most softwoods cannot withstand.

Hardwoods have been used extensively in Europe for several decades now. If you visit a house in Stockholm or Oslo, chances are, you will find hardwood used extensively throughout the outdoors. The wood is sourced from responsibly managed forests where trees are cut down only in specific numbers so as to maintain a certain amount of green cover. Using hardwoods, thus, is environmentally sustainable.

In contrast to softwoods or synthetic substitutes, the color of hardwood varies naturally. Thus, no two floors will have the same color or texture. If you want a unique look for your house, hardwoods should be your first choice. Additionally, the sheen and smoothness of hardwoods is much more superior to synthetic substitutes or comparable softwoods.

A good designer should be able to use hardwood decking in a creative way so as to bring out as well as complement the natural "aura" of your house' outdoor areas. You should be careful not to overuse it though as most people following this trend are prone to do. Use hardwood judiciously to complement your house and outdoors design, not to overwhelm it.




Get hot tips and info about hardwood decking [http://www.hardwooddecking.org] that will save you time and tons of money at my website: [http://www.hardwooddecking.org]





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2011年11月29日 星期二

Advantages of Hardwood Decking


A deck is the "must have" home addition this summer. It can enhance the look of your house by several notches and give you additional space to entertain friends or relax with your loved ones. Decks are great for BBQs, a romantic candlelight dinner, or just gazing at the stars with your better half.

Decks are mostly built out of wood. This is because wood is easy to work with, can withstand different weather conditions, looks great, and complements the "outdoors" theme of the deck. In addition, wood is also cost effective, durable, and 'natural'.

You can build a deck using either hardwood of softwood. The latter is not really recommended owing to its lack of strength and overall poor aesthetic qualities. Hardwood, on the other hand, is the ideal wood for making decks. Hardwood decking has several advantages, some of which are:

1. Hardwood decking is strong and durable. While it may be a bit difficult to work with as compared to softwood, a decking made out of hardwood will be able to withstand diverse weather conditions and remain undamaged for generations. Hardwood does not rot easily either. This is quite an important feature, especially if you live in an area prone to excess rainfall or adverse weather.

2. Hardwood decking has a natural sheen and smoothness. This is undoubtedly one of the most important reasons for its popularity among home owners. Hardwood decking simply looks amazing as compared to its softwood or synthetic counterparts. It has a natural sheen and feels great to touch owing to its smoothness. Moreover, hardwood varies naturally in color and texture, meaning that no two decks will ever look the same.

3. It is cost effective, as compared to the alternatives. When you consider the durability and aesthetic qualities hardwood offers, its cost comes out quite cheap compared to synthetic alternatives. Cost is a major factor in home renovations. This is perhaps the reason why hardwood is preferred over other woods when it comes to making decks.




Get hot tips and info about hardwood decking [http://www.hardwooddecking.org] that will save you time and tons of money at my website: [http://www.hardwooddecking.org]





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Advantages of WestStar Composite Decking For Northwest Homes


As more and more consumers realize the benefits of composite decking, demand for this popular alternative to cedar is expected to rise over the next few years. Its durability in rough weather makes it a particularly advantageous choice for Northwest homeowners, who also tend to appreciate the low maintenance requirements, safety advantages and environmentally friendly aspects of a composite deck.

Because composite decks are made from wood fibers encased in recycled plastic, manufacturers can differ when it comes to the amount of recycled content, the ratio of wood to plastic and the overall strength and quality of the materials. Here's what you need to know about composite decking for the Northwest:

Differences Between Composite Decking Manufacturers

Many people ask for Trex decking when what they're really looking for is composite decking. Although Trex is one of the most recognized makers of composite decks, many other manufacturers have emerged, and the quality of their products can differ.

For decks built in the rainy Northwest, one manufacturer has created a product specifically designed to withstand the region's rough weather. With enhanced protection against mildew and mold, WestStar decking was formulated to hold up in a wet, humid climate.

What Makes WestStar Composite Decking Unique

One hundred percent recycled. A combination of wood from warehouse and factory pallets, as well as scraps from woodworking studios, are combined with plastic from post-consumer bottles to give WestStar composite decking its unique strength.

Strongest plastic. WestStar selects only the toughest HDPE (High Density Polyethlyene) recycled plastics instead of lower-density plastics that can break down more quickly and result in expensive repairs.

Resistant to mold. Mold and mildew growth, which causes a slippery surface, is a common problem with composite decks. A mold inhibitor in WestStar decking keeps mold from growing, even in rainy weather. In addition, WestStar composite decks come with a signature non-skid finish for added safety.

Durable. The plastic in composite decking seals it against moisture, UV rays and extreme temperatures, which means WestStar decks have a lifespan that's two to three years longer than that of a typical wood deck.

Minimal maintenance required. There's no need to worry about paint or stain with a composite deck. Simply sweep away leaves and branches regularly, clean up any spills or stains promptly, and wash it down twice a year with a pressurized hose nozzle.

Top-notch warranty. Warranties for WestStar composite decking tend to be generous compared to those for competing brands. They almost always cover splitting, splintering, surface checking and damage from insects or termites.

Tips for Installing a Composite Deck

Traditionally, most professional contractors install composite decks by screwing the boards into the joists from the top down. Although this creates a secure structure, it can also allow moisture to seep into the areas between the screws and the boards, allowing rot and decay to infiltrate the wood material within the plastic.

To prevent this problem, you can invest a little extra money into deck clips, which fasten boards to the joists from below, eliminating the need to drill into the composite decking material and keeping the wood's protective coating intact. By installing your deck this way, you can add years to its life and bypass the need for costly repairs in the future.

~Ben Serviss, 2010




Want to know more about why WestStar outshines other brands of composite decking for Northwest homes?
Visit the Rick's Fencing & Decking website for Port Orford cedar and composite decking materials in Oregon and Washington.





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2011年11月28日 星期一

Trex Decking Prices - Look Beyond The Price For The Ultimate Deck


Trex decking prices are quite high when you compare them to the prices of other decking material. However, there are advantages to paying the higher Trex decking prices when you want a quality deck. Trex decking is one of the composite decking materials on the market that has a high percentage of wood. If you are looking online for decking material, the information about Trex decking prices and the material will tell you that this decking does not require the same amount of maintenance that you would have with wood.

Trex decking material is recyclable and environmentally friendly. Other impressive features include the fact that it does not rot or crack, you don't have to stain or paint it and it performs well in cold weather. When you look at these features and compare the Trex decking prices to the prices and features of other types of decking material, you will see that you are getting the most benefit for your money. Looking for Trex decking online will also give you tips about to install and clean the decking material.

Just as with wood, you can saw and fasten Trex decking material to a wood frame. Although you can also do this with other composite decking materials with lower prices than that of Trex decking prices, your deck will stay looking new for a lifetime. You can order Trex decking online if your local supplier does not carry it. By searching online, you can also purchase kits using Trex decking in various sizes and shapes.

Even though Trex decking prices are higher than average, the Trex decking material will fade slightly in the first few days after you build your deck. This is not a defect in the Trex decking, but is a natural process that you will find with any composite decking material. The composite decking has to become acclimatized to the location and after the initial fading, the decking material will remain true to the color.

Trex decking material is made from used wood and plastic. Sometimes the wood is sawdust and the plastic may be recycled as well. You will find that the color of the decking goes all the way through and is not just on the surface. When you decide to pay the higher Trex decking prices and place your order online, you will also need to purchase an installation kit. This kit does not come with the Trex decking and so adds additional cost to the Trex decking prices. You will have to allow for this in your decking budget. If the prices are a bit too high, but you really want a Trex deck, you can watch the sales and wait for the prices to go down. This happens several times a year and will enable you to get the deck you want at a lower price.




To find out more about Decking visit Peter's Website The Decking Guide and find out about Trex Decking and more, including Wood Decking, IPE Decking, Composite Decking and Pool Decking.





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How to Decorate Your Deck and Give it a New Look


Decks and patios are a great way to spend free time outside with the family or just enjoying nature. They can be the center of family occasions, parties, bar-b-ques or an outlet for reading, writing, and just plain relaxing. Having a deck atmosphere that sets the right mood is critical to getting the most enjoyment out of your deck. This can be achieved with a few decorative additions, a simple remodel, or a complete deck overhaul. Here's a few tips and tricks you can use to learn how to decorate your deck, make your old deck look new, and make your new deck standout.

1. First, you should consider the material the deck is made from. Today there are composite materials like TREX, AZEK, and Versatex that look like wood but are much more resistant to rotting and the elements. Some of them are designed to last a lifetime. If you plan to live in your home for a long time, it can be advantageous to consider and invest in a composite deck that will last much longer and look new for a very long time. Staining a deck is a good option for wood, but make sure the wood is treated properly so that the stain lasts the longest. Some composites can be stained and will hold the stain for longer periods of time.

2. You can also upgrade your deck with more decorative railings or posts. These can cost more, but can dictate the architectural style of the deck and feel of it. Aluminum railings are better for exterior use and will resist the normal rust associated with wrought-iron. Decorative PVC posts and railings can give you the same rich look of an interior railing, but in a completely rot and moisture free application that will last for years.

3. A trellis is a good addition to a deck and can create a wall of privacy so that you can screen out the views of your neighbors. It can add an upward dimension to the deck and give it a closed feel. You can also have overhead crossbeams installed. These can create a sunscreen or allow you the ability to make a vine cover overhead that will turn your deck into a green sanctuary.

4. For simple wood railings, why not give them a decorative upgrade with some deck railing window boxes. Decorating a deck is with deck rail planters can transform a plain deck to a flower sanctuary. Nowadays, you can find planters that are designed to attach to the railing allowing you to wrap your complete deck in planter boxes and hanging vines and flowers for a dramatic effect that will leave your neighbors green with envy. A freestanding planter could also work for a more private showing of your flowers.




Matt Buquoi is the owner of Flower Window Boxes, a popular online window box company that specializes in affordable no rot window boxes, deck rail planters, and freestanding planters. These deck rail planters and freestanding planters have been featured on The Today Show as "the last window boxes you will ever buy." They are a great way to transform a simple deck or patio railing. Please visit their website for more information.





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2011年11月27日 星期日

Using the Best Deck PVC Railing


Trex Is A Choice Form Many Decks

Decks are being built or renovated every year by homeowners wishing to spend more time outdoors in an attractive setting as well as by those wishing to entertain outdoors. What materials to use for your deck is always a question for those building new decks or railings. As popular as wood has always been, many homeowners are choosing to use vinyl instead of wood for their deck and railing. They're finding that vinyl and deck PVC railing not only look great but is very cost effective. One product that many are choosing to use is Trex.

What is Trex?

When it comes to deck and deck parts, Trex is the leading brand in the country. Trex is used for fencings, decking, railing and trims to give you the best in your outdoor decks and furniture. Trex composite products are made of a mixture of plastic and wood fibers and are used as a wood substitute in the construction of many outdoor products. Trex gets their materials from recycled or reclaimed resources such as recycled plastic grocery bags and used pallet and sawdust from woodworking factories. Each of these products is strictly screened to make sure they are of the highest quality before they reach the Trex plant.

Advantages of Trex

Trex is a brand name for the many products that are made by Trex Company Inc. Their products are versatile and strong, making them perfect for decking and other outdoor furniture. They are also resistant to rot, insects and splinters. These are all the problems homeowners often encounter with wood products. Not only is Trex resistant to many of the perils of wood, but Trex is also long lasting and requires little or no maintenance. Trex products use the best of wood and vinyl. You're getting the best combination of the two materials in one great product.

The wood fibers that go into the Trex products have the natural texture along with a solid construction as well as UV protection. They will not splinter or rot as many wood products tend to do. No longer will you have to spend year after year painting and repainting your deck or railings when you use Trex decking products.

Trex-Your Best Choice For The Outdoor

In addition to its many other excellent qualities, Trex is also environmentally friendly. Because they use reclaimed and recycled products such as wood waste products, plastic from wraps and old grocery bags, they are ecofriendly, making them excellent for our country. There are also no chemicals or toxic preservatives in Trex. When you use Trex products, you are getting a 25-year warranty guaranteeing their product is just what you need and want in outdoor settings. For a more detailed description of their warranty, go to the Trex website.




Adam Peters is a syndicated writer of http://www.deck-porch-railings.com Read additional info on deck ideas or deck pvc railing.





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Choose Trex Decking - The Last Material For Your Deck


Trex decking is one of the composite decking materials that has a proven track record with homeowners. Trex is different from other alternative materials for use as decking because it has a higher percentage of wood in its components. It is also very environmentally friendly and is completely recyclable. Although Trex decking does contain wood, it does not require the same level of maintenance as wood decking does.

Trex decking prices may turn you off when you first look at the price tag associated with it. However, when you compare Trex decking to using wood as decking material, you have to look at the other important features of Trex composite decking. With wood, you have to paint and stain it just about every year. It is subject to rot and insect infestation. You do not have any of these problems with Trex decking and it will last a lifetime. Compare the prices of what it will cost you to keep your wood deck in good shape and you will see that Trex offers the best bargain in decking.

Some of the other impressive features of Trex decking include:

· It doesn't crack

· It doesn't splinter

· It is slip-resistant

· It will not swell when exposed to moisture

· It has minimal shrinkage in cold temperatures

You can saw and fasten the Trex composite decking to the wooden frame of the deck just as you can with wood or another brand of composite decking. It has UV protection so that it won't fade from the glare of the sun on the hot summer days. Even though you pay the higher Trex decking prices, you will notice some light fading in the first few months. This is the natural process of the composite decking acclimatizing to the location.

Trex composite decking means that the material is made from plastic and reclaimed wood. The wood can be fiber or sawdust and often the plastic is recycled as well. Each plank or tile that you have has the color going all the way through. When you purchase an installation kit to help you out, you will also get the instructions as to how to create a beautiful deck with Trex decking. You can also visit the company website and download the instruction. The cost of the installation kit is in addition to the Trex decking prices so you do have to allow for this in your budget.

It is best to buy all of the Trex decking that you need at the same time. This is because if you run out of the Trex composite decking and have to return to the store for more, the next shipment may not be exactly the same color. At various times, you may be able to get the Trex decking on sale and when you have to buy some at a later date, you will have to pay higher Trex decking prices.




To find out more about Decking visit Peter's Website The Decking Guide and find out about Trex Decking and more, including Wood Decking, IPE Decking, Composite Decking and Pool Decking.





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2011年11月26日 星期六

Composit Decking - Material That Can Handle Mother Nature


Composit decking is one of the new decking materials for commercial and residential decks that is cornering a section of the market. If you are not sure about using this material for your decking, you should read some of the reviews of the various brands. Viewing photos of decks completed with composite decking material will also give you a good idea of the professional ambiance that this can bring to the exterior of your home. Although composit decking comes in second place to wood in the look and appearance of a deck, you can get this material that looks as if you have a traditional wood deck.

The word composit means that the material used in the decking is molded or extruded using a process of mixing wood and plastic to create a unique decking material. Composit decking has distinct advantages over wood if you want to have a deck with which you will have very little work in the future. If you read composite decking reviews, you will learn that some manufacturers use polyethylene plastic while others use vinyl. The wood used is generally wood fibers or sawdust, although you would never guess this when you see the composite decking photos.

The brand of composit decking that you buy depends on what you are looking for. Read the composite decking reviews of Elk, Procell, Trex Geodeck and more then 25 other manufacturers of composite decking. You will find very favourable reviews about all of them whether you choose plank decking or composit tile decking. In the reviews, you can also learn valuable information about how to install this decking and the best ways of fastening it to a wooden frame. You can learn from the mistakes of others by reading reviews, so that you can avoid some of the common problems homeowners sometimes have and then feel so foolish when they realize the simple mistake they made.

Composite decking photos in magazines and online are a great way for you to decide which type of composit decking would best suit your home. As you compare the various photos of the composite decking material, you can also compare the prices of this decking material. When you compare the prices of the composit deck prices with that of wooden decks, you should keep in mind that composite decking requires very low maintenance. This is not true of wood decking. Read composite decking reviews to help you understand how paying a higher initial price can help save you money down the road.

The only maintenance you will need to do when you install composit decking is washing it down with a hose. This decking material does not rot, crack or splinter and it never needs painting or staining. If you notice that the color fades a bit in the first few months, just read the composite decking reviews to find out that this is perfectly natural. The color will fade slightly as it adjusts to the weather of your location. After that, the color will remain constant in your composit decking so that it will always look like new.




To find out more about Decking visit Peter's Website The Decking Guide and find out about Composit Decking and more, including Wood Decking, IPE Decking, Trex Decking and Pool Decking.





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How to Select Your Decking Materials


There are many decking materials available today from wood, composite (wood-plastic blend) and vinyl/plastic. Wood tends to have lower initial cost but more maintenance effort and cost, especially if the desired color is not the natural weathered color. Wood looks like wood. Composites tend to be in the middle to high end in initial cost, lower on maintenance effort and cost, and good for color retention. Composites do not look exactly like wood. Vinyl/plastic tends to be the highest in initial cost, longest in expected service life, lowest in maintenance cost and effort, and great for color retention. Vinyl/plastic also does not look exactly like wood.

WOOD

Most decking installed in the U.S. is wood and most wood decking is treated pine. Treated pine is treated to prevent rot (CCA has been phased out and has been replaced now with ACQ & other treatments). These are acronyms for the chemicals in the treatments. The wood most commonly treated is southern yellow pine. The nature of the wood itself, not the treatment, makes it prone to twisting, splitting, warping and splintering. Some other woods in use are cedar, redwood, IPE, Tigerwood, Massaranduba and Garapa.

COMPOSITE

Composite decking is a distant second in popularity after wood but is now more popular than ever in new deck installations and re-decks (re-use old deck framing and replace old deck boards and railing with new composite materials). "Composite" means that the decking is molded or extruded from a secret formula that is a mixture of wood and plastic or vinyl. The wood is a wood flour of various grinds and species. The plastic is most often polyethylene or polypropylene. There are different ratios of wood to plastic and different mixtures of recycled & virgin plastic. All of these things affect performance characteristics. Composite decking is available in regular plank, tongue & groove, grain finish, solid colors, and mixed colors.

VINYL/PLASTIC

Vinyl/plastic decking is becoming more popular and is primarily taking market share away from the composite deck segment. Decking profiles are typically plank but with a few manufacturers offering a tongue & groove. Vinyl/plastic decking is available in a grain or smooth finish, solid colors, and mixed colors.

POINTS TO CONSIDER

WOOD

" Wood looks like real wood and the initial cost is much lower with pine but not necessarily so with some of the other woods

" Wood weathers and changes color - requires periodic cleaning and staining to maintain a color other than the naturally weathered color

" Southern yellow pine splits, cracks and splinters over time

" Exotic woods like IPE, Tigerwood, Massaranduba and Garapa are more expensive but do not split and crack like pine.

" Wood must be replaced (usually before other materials) at some point which varies with exposure, maintenance and luck

" Wood requires some maintenance for best performance and service life - usually pressure washed to get clean

" Maintenance costs time and/or money and can offset any initial cost savings.

COMPOSITE

" Initial cost is significantly higher than pine, but similar to the exotic woods

" Longer service life

" Lower maintenance cost and effort than wood - usually cleaned with a pressure washer or a chemical solution wash & flush

" No painting, staining or sealing

" No splinters

" Variety of colors

" Variety of textures - embossed wood, grain, grooved, smooth

" Mixed colors and grains

" Hidden fasteners

" May grow mold and mildew in the wood component - can be difficult and troublesome to clean completely

" May stain - cleaning methods vary with type of stain and wood component

VINYL/PLASTIC

" Initial cost is usually the same or higher than composites

" Longer service life

" Least amount of maintenance and effort - usually cleaned with a water hose

" No painting, staining or sealing

" No splinters

" Maintains original look and color long term

" Variety of colors except for dark colors like brown

" Variety of textures - embossed wood, grain, grooved, smooth

" Mixed colors and grains

" Hidden fasteners

" No mold or mildew

" No stains

HOW TO CHOOSE

There are many factors to consider when selecting your decking materials:

" Aesthetics - color(s), finish, width, hidden fasteners, etc.

" Style - regular plank vs. tongue & groove

" Service Life

" Resistance to stains, fading and mold

" Resistance to splitting, cracking and splintering

" Maintenance

" Initial Cost

" Warranty

" Special Features - waterproofing area below

The material that is right for you is the one that has the best overall package of features that are important to you.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

Based on such factors as cost, warranty, maintenance, durability, product integrity, as well as having the entire deck built out of the same product (visible parts) and the overall look of the deck. the following top brand of materials are recommended:

WOOD

" Pressure Treated Southern Yellow Pine

" IPE

" Tigerwood

" Massaranduba

" Garapa

COMPOSITE

" TimberTech (timbertech.com)

" Trex (trex.com)

" Evergrain (evergrain.com)

" Monarch (monarchdeck.com)

VINYL/PLASTIC

" TimberTech XLM (timbertech.com)

" Trex Escapes (trex.com)

" Azek (azek.com)

" Veka (vekadeck.com)

" TanDeck (tandeck.com)




Raymond Halackna
Archadeck of Pittsburgh
decking materials





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2011年11月25日 星期五

Wood Deck Cleaning - Pressure Washing Decks the Right Way


Perhaps the most dramatic effect of cleaning a deck with a power washer, is on a wood deck. Whether you want to remove dirt or other debris, or prepare the deck for a new finish, a pressure washer is the perfect tool for the job.

First, remove all your furniture so you can clean the entire area. For this job, attach the 25 degree nozzle to your pressure washer and go ahead and spray away any loose leaves or dirt.

Next up, we recommend applying a detergent for the best and quickest cleaning results.

Note: First test the detergent on an inconspicuous area of your deck.

To apply the detergent to the deck, attach the black detergent nozzle to the pressure washer, and fill the detergent tank with an environmentally friendly detergent liquid. Then apply the detergent to the deck surface and allow it to soak for 3-5 minutes.

The detergent will break down any oil or surface film for more effective cleaning.

One thing to keep in mind, don't allow the detergent to dry. If you're working in the sun, keep wetting the surface until the detergent has had time to work it's magic.

Once that's done, reattached the 25 degree nozzle. Continue cleaning in a side to side sweeping motion. Keep the nozzle moving constantly and at a consistent distance from the deck to get an even clean and so that you do not scratch your deck surface.

Once you've completed cleaning the deck, go ahead and give it one more spray to rid of loose detergent or dirt. With the hard work done, you can sit and relax and let the deck dry for 24 hrs before staining or sealing.

Injury Notice: Pressure washing a deck often forces the user to maintain an awkward back angle. Make sure to wear a brace or take breaks often to avoid a strained back. This will only make cleaning your deck an bad experience.

There are professional deck pressure washing services or deck restoration services at reasonable rates. in your area. If you're brand new to this, the time it takes you may be worth hiring someone else.

Another option still is to never have to pressure wash again. With the new deck materials that are out there, new decks come with lifetime warranties against any scratches, fading, or stains. They range from Trex Decks, TimberTech Decks, Gossen Decking, Fiberon Decking, and a whole host of others.

Consult with your local deck builder for more help and advice.




Lenny Scarola is the owner of PowerHouse Remodeling of Northern Virginia and Maryland.
PowerHouse inc is a contractor for decks, patios, porch enclosures, gazebos, and garages.
For more information on these services or for a free price quote and design, go to http://www.powerhousedecks.com.

Northern Virginia Deck Builder by PowerHouse Remodeling





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Decking Designs That Invite Entertainment


There are a variety of ways to design a deck or patio space that will allow you to enjoy more time with friends and family. This planning stage of your deck will be one of the most important times to take different factors into consideration. We'll cover some of these topics in this article. Decking designs that incorporate these elements will give you a more balanced deck.

The first place to start is with a discussion about the decking materials, size and the railing or lighting options. Decks are commonly made of wood. Cedar is a commonly used material. It is a soft wood that makes a great deck because of its natural weathering properties. It is resistant to rot and weathers to a beautiful silvery-gray color.

You might also like the idea of little to no maintenance that can be provided by a composite decking material. Trex decking is just one such name to keep in mind. This brand brought some of the original composite materials to market and is a leader in innovation of these paper and resin products.

The size of your deck is another thing to keep in proportion. Like with other aspects of your home, the deck should be kept in proportion to the other rooms in your home. One idea that has been suggested is to keep the largest space of your deck no larger than the largest room inside your home. For a deck that will be used for entertaining or that will have a patio set, a minimum size of 12'x12' is adequate to give you some room to move about.

You can 'frame' your deck with the right type of railings. Deck railings include metal and wood choices. Metal railings can provide you with a more maintenance free option, as well as more solid appearance. These and other railings can support the use of deck lighting like rope lights, post cap lights or string lights. Including these properties in your outdoor living area will be a product of great decking designs.




Michael James McCord is a patio enthusiast himself, with some first hand knowledge of how to design and ultimately use a patio. Most of his articles on http://patiocoversplace.com are similar in topic, such as this one about decking designs.





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Interesting Composite Deck Building


If you are looking to get yourself a new composite deck for your home, you should try to stick to getting a professional to install and build it. Decks are something that you can try to make for yourself, but if you are not keen on building things, you might end up ruining your backyard, or simply ruining your bank account. Your bank account will suffer and then you'll have to pay someone to not only tear down your composite decking mess, but also make you rethink your construction abilities.

For many people, construction work is not so hard. However, that construction work might not translate well to making a strong, and safe composite deck because if you have several people on it at once, you do not want it to fall and break, hurting your friends, family and even children. Yes, there are people that can build nice decks and do a lot of projects in their home. However, the majority of people that try to build something, hang rain gutters, or simply do their own construction, plumbing, or electricity, eventually realize that their handy work is not up to par with the professionals. If you try to do it yourself and you forget to test it for stress, you may have a lawsuit on your hands.

If you got sick, you wouldn't simply self diagnose yourself. You would not want to make a judgment call on your life, but for whatever reasons, many different people seem to think that they can do what the professionals do without any major problems. It's not easy to build with composite decking from raw materials. Sure there are home improvement shows that will make you believe that anything that can be done at home can be done with your own hands, and while that is interesting to say the least, it is not always the case when considering building a large scale project like a nice deck in your backyard.

Your backyard might be missing a composite deck, but do not be scared of adding that to your home. You will enjoy the greater good that this will value if it is done correctly. Things like knowing the proper deck screws to use to joist spacing can make a world of difference. However, if you are not sure, ask for a professional estimate and the pro's will make sure that you get the Correct deck or Trex deck of your dreams and make sure that you are not going to regret getting it. They'll also make sure it lasts for the life of your home and beyond.




Are you ready to learn all about the benefits of Interesting Composite Deck Building?? Visit http://www.fencesanddecksdallas.com today!





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2011年11月24日 星期四

Trex Deck Or Redwood? Which is the Best Option For You?


If you are building a deck on your home, you have probably heard of "TREX" deck. If you haven't, it is a fairly new material to the deck building world, which is made of wood polymer and easy to care for. You don't have to seal it or worry about rot the way you do with natural wood decking. Many composite materials are being made into decking material, including recycled wood products. It is estimated that almost 80 percent of new deck construction is being done with TREX easy care decking, and only about 5 percent are being constructed of redwood, which used to be some of the most popular.

Because of environmental concerns and the high cost of wood products, many homeowners have considered TREX decking the best of both worlds. It is better for the economy since it is composed of wood particles, shavings and other things that might be considered waste and mixed with polymer to make a strong and durable product that requires little care, unlike wood decking. It is better for the redwoods and a more durable product. Most TREX decks come with a 25 year warranty against splitting, rotting and checking.

With redwood decking, you have to keep it sealed, or it will turn a grayish brown to preserve itself. Most people think the weather makes a deck look older, which is the reason they have opted for TREX, besides the maintenance issues. While redwood is a hardwood that is natural insect and rot resistant, it is more vulnerable than a composite decking.

Because of the obvious advantages of TREX decking, it is often the choice, hands-down, in today's deck construction. If you have not heard of it or seen it, you should investigate it before automatically deciding on a redwood deck. Not only is it better for the environment, but it is actually a better product that is affordable and doesn't require maintenance. There are vinyl or plastic composition decking materials on the market to consider that might be cheaper than TREX, but the formulation of TREX decks has been proven for long-lasting durability, which is want you want for your deck.

Most decking contractors are familiar with the new TREX decking and will be able to show you samples of your choices. The decking gives the appearance of a wood deck without the hassle of the upkeep. Obviously, there are going to be some people that just want a redwood deck, but they are no longer the majority. For the most durable deck, most people are choosing TREX over the redwood decks, even though there are many grades of redwood available. Brazilian redwood is a popular redwood for decks, but can be more expensive than other deck choices and harder to get.

When you are considering a deck for your home, you should build one that is large enough to entertain your family. You should consider fifteen square feet per person, minimum. A deck that is big enough to serve as an outside living space can add value to your home and give you years of enjoyment. Be sure and get as big of a deck as you can afford and your home or yard will accommodate. A deck is a good investment for your home and one that will add to resale value, if it is in good condition, TREX or redwood.




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What Kind Of Decking Material Do You Like? - Get Composite Decking


Decking material includes just about everything you can think of that could be used for a deck. Composite decking is a type of decking that is made from a combination of wood fibers or sawdust and plastic. If you prefer to use traditional lumber, 2 X 6 is the most common lumber used, but you can also get hardwood decking, such as Ipe, cedar and redwood. In the line of wood decking material, you can get #1 and #2. # 1 lumber is kiln-dried to help prevent warping, cupping and checking. #2 lumber is considered green or wet.

If you are not sure about the new composite decking material that you have heard so much about, just visit one of your local decking retailers to see what it looks like. You can also do a search online and do a comparison of composite decking material and the traditional wood for decking. You can also compare the manufacturers of this decking material to find the best product for your needs at the best price. Some of the popular manufacturers of composite decking include Trex, Choice Dek, Weatherbest, Eon, Ipe and GeoDeck.

The invention of composite decking material has reduced the amount of work that homeowners have with building and maintaining a deck around their homes. There are various types of decking material that will last for years and with which you have very low maintenance to keep it looking just as new as the day you installed it. When you do a comparison of composite decking materials, you will find that when you have a deck made of this material, the only work you will ever have to do with it is to hose it down for cleaning. No more painting, scraping or repairing rotten boards in the decking in the spring. Composite material is well able to withstand the elements of the weather.

A comparison of composite decking material also means you have to look at the prices of each brand. Some of the manufacturers have tile decking that just snaps together. Some of these tiles come in a hardwood pattern and by rotating them you can create an interesting decking design. All of the composite decking materials are colored through so there is very little if any fading. This decking material is also slip-resistant and the water drains through the mesh base.

Take a good look at the many types of decking material on the market when you want to install a new deck. Whether you choose to use composite decking material or not, you will have to build a wooden frame. All the instructions you need for installing the composite boards or tiles are included in the packages and you can easily complete a typical deck in a few hours. Why bother with decking material that you have to paint or stain, when you can use composite decking and then sit back and enjoy it?




To find out more about Decking visit Peter's Website The Decking Guide and find out about Composite Decking and more, including Wood Decking, IPE Decking, Trex Decking and Pool Decking.





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2011年11月23日 星期三

Know The Reason Behind Inflated Trex Decking Prices


If you want superior quality decking material, then nothing can match up to the standard of the brand Trex. It is a fact that this brand offers high price products to their customers as compared with other service providers in the same industry but it is due to the unmatchable standard both in designs and quality which makes it expensive. They are worth the value of your hard money. You will find several advantages behind paying inflated Trex decking prices which is its unique quality and durability. Trex is one of the amalgamated decking equipments that contains a higher mix or percentage of wood.

So if you are looking for decking materials and their prices over the online medium, you will find several service providers to offer you with large variations but the products from Trex are best in the Industrial. They do not even require too much of maintenance as it is done for woods. They are known for their environment friendly nature and thus are recyclable further. The quality of these materials is quite sturdy this is why the prices are also bit higher. Decks from Trex do not crack or rot easily and there is fuss of painting or staining them for effective performance during cold climatic conditions. Trex decks require little or no maintenance and eventually save your maintenance fees largely.

This will be more evident if you consider comparing the Trex decking prices with the normal brigade of decking materials online. With Trex you will receive more benefits and value for money. You can also get more tips on the installation process through online surfing. You always have an option of buying them online if required. You can initially compare Trex decking prices with the average ones in order to be sure about its credibility and finally plan and make a sensible purchase decision.




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How To Build a Deck You'll Never Worry About


You may have heard the stories: Owners of wood decks complaining about warping and splintering, or about the creepy-crawlies that made homes in the knotholes of the lumber. It's enough to make you think twice about installing a deck.

Wood decks can be a beautiful investment - if you've got the time to devote to caring for them. But sometimes you just want to install your deck and start enjoying it... and continue enjoying it with as little maintenance as possible.

That's where composite wood decking comes in. Composite wood decking is a revolutionary product that combines the look and texture of real wood with the durability and sturdiness of a plastic composite. Wood decking has a great natural look and feel, but it can fade and crack without a rigorous maintenance schedule. Composite decking retains its beauty and strength with little effort. And it can do it while maintaining that same outdoorsy look.

Lumber, by its nature, is attractive to termites, woodlice and other pests; composite wood decking won't appeal to even the hungriest of insects. You're a busy homeowner, and you've got enough chores on your list. There's no reason to add more, like spraying for bugs and slopping water sealant all over your deck in the hot weather.

What's more, most composite wood decks are environmentally friendly, and feature the natural look of real lumber because they contain real lumber. When composites are created, their manufacturers reclaim and reuse wood by-products - sawdust, wood fibers and other lumber cast-offs that would otherwise go to a landfill - and combine them with other materials that seal in both beauty and strength. The result is a composite wood decking material that retains its attractiveness in the face of anything nature throws at it. Rain and snow, mold and fungus, bugs and burrowers - composite decks can deflect it all.

The wonders of competition in the free market have resulted in a vivid rainbow of composite decking types; because several companies manufacture it, composite wood decking also comes in a variety of textures, colors and patterns, any combination of which is sure to satisfy your desire for a warm, pleasing aesthetic.

Each manufacturer specializes in a specific type of decking. Trex, for instance, offers versatility of style, whereas TimberTech planks are famed for their comfort. Before beginning any decking project, it's important to outline for yourself what you want in a deck. It'll help you make the right choice when it's time to pick a manufacturer.

Your individual needs will decide the kind of composite wood decking material you should buy. If you're looking for the smoothness and comfort associated with an indoor floor, try TimberTech's Floorizon Plank, with its hidden-from-view fastener system and its silky surface. If it's versatility you're in the market for, Trex Accents may be for you: On one side, a smooth, soft surface; on the other, a standard wood grain. Many composite products allow for numerous design possibilities, so you can have swooping postmodern curves and simple, straightforward coziness, all in the same deck.

As environmental consciousness grips the world more and more, and people become more concerned with reclaiming and recycling waste, composite wood decking products will become more prevalent and popular. There's really no better way to build a deck that retains its sturdiness and beauty over the years.




Kevin Ott is a freelance copywriter who lives in California and writes on a variety of topics, including home improvement, food, travel, marketing, and a variety of other topics. One of his clients is Sequoia Supply, the premier supplier of composite wood decking material (to both contractors and do-it-yourself homeowners) in the Northeast.

Visit Sequoia Supply here:

http://www.decksupplies.com





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