Decking Parts And Structure Explained

Decks come in wide ranges of shapes designs, large and small. One thing that stands out among the different sizes and looks is that the structure or look of a deck is the same. For DIY'ers here is a valuable breakdown of all deck parts or structures needed to ensure a solid, long lasting and safe deck.

So what are the parts of a deck? What are they made of?

Knowledge is strength. Acquaint yourself with the various names and parts of your deck. Just think how you'll impress your friends and spouse as you order that part by name at your building supply.

Let's begin identifying and naming each structural part of a deck.

Boards used in the construction of decks usually are pressure treated wood because pressure treated is great for strength and longer life in the elements. These boards come in 2x6, and larger structural sizes, that hold the deck up. When constructing a deck other names you will become familiar with are ledgers, beams, posts, and joists.

Topside parts of the deck include the actual decking , rails, stairway, and decorative fascia usually 2x6 just below the deck running horizontal. The parts you see topside are usually in redwood, cedar or for example if its a composite deck, then you would probably use the manufacturer's composite railing kit and posts that compliment the brand of decking you have chosen.

Lets Identify the Deck Ledgers: They are used to secure a deck to an existing house. It's used to support one end of your joists. Joists: These are usually 2x6 boards attached at both ends of the deck. Joists are what the deck boards are attached to, either by nailing, screwing or T-clips. These joists are secured to the header joist on one end and to the ledger on the other end.

Concrete Footings; How is the deck supported? By concrete footings. The footing is formed by pouring concrete in the ground and hence allowed to dry. While drying some will secure a cement block of sorts with wood on top of this to nail in their 4x4 posts. Another way to attach posts is with metal post anchors made of galvanized steel.

Posts: These are attached to the concrete footings vertically 4x4's.

Beams: ( 2x8 or 2x10 wood supports) Called the main support system which is fastened to the deck posts underneath the deck.

Railings Terms you will hear are balusters, posts, railing and the cap. Balusters and posts you'll find are attached to the header and outside joists of the deck. The height of of the rails are usually 24- 34 inches high- check with local building codes.

Stairs: Made of 2 stringers and a number of what is called treads attached with cleats (metal) to the side of a deck.

That's it for now.....Happy Deck Building.

Darrell Suchocki invites you to benefit form his 25 years of experience in the construction trades as a builder and flooring installer and home water damage. See his website at http://decks-n-floors.com/ for comprehensive information about flooring and decks to make better home improvement buying decisions. Plus see other articles related to the home construction trade. http://decks-n-floors.com/

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Composite Decking Considerations-Maintenance & Fasteners

Choosing the right decking material will contribute to the beauty and maintenance of your deck.

Consider this fact, make sure your will be using the correct decking material for your local climate, taking into account such factors as humidity and temperature to ensure enjoyment and a long-lasting deck.

Above all, remember that research and knowledge about your future project is important to make a wise buying decision you will not regret.

If your choice is to build the deck with wood, your choice can be redwood, cedar or an exotic material of many choices which are fire resistant and will resists splitting and warping. Tip: Before the project begins, make sure your deck material (or wood) is acclimated and dry in reference to your current weather conditions.

Fasteners for your Deck Do Make a Difference:

Do you like nail or screws to show on the tops of the decking or would you prefer using clips on the edges of the decking to hold down the boards. Clips will not be seen, so the surface of the deck will be all wood, no screws or nails. Hidden deck-fasteners are readily available, and can be researched on the web . Here is a quote from a popular brand of hidden fasteners; " Our fasteners are the most reliable, long-lasting fasteners on the market. They are manufactured in the United States and made of ultra-violet resistant polypropylene. They can't rust, and they're guaranteed to last 100 years with normal use".

More advantages of hidden deck fasteners:

o Fasteners also help prevent premature wood rotting around fastener while creating a clean look from above.

o Help keep labor costs down. (Compared to other hidden deck fastening systems) Will not corrode like galvanized deck fasteners.

o No special tools needed to install.

o Easily installs for the average homeowner.

The Future of Composite Decking Technology is constantly changing and so are composite decks because of consumers desire for this product. So composite decking was created. Composites are usually smooth with a wood grain type of texture, and will not splinter and are comfortable on bare feet. Maintenance is easy too and can resemble the look of tropical hardwood. Other choices of decking other than wood, are plastic and vinyl decking.

Protect Your Investment

All decks need periodic maintenance and cleaning. Consult the instructions of the manufacturer as to what you can do and not do to maintain your deck properly. Pressure washing is usually permissible to keep your composite decking clean. Deck cleaners are also useful for getting rid of muddy footprints. General maintenance includes weekly sweeping of your deck. Especially sweep the deck during pollen seasons, because pollen creates a surface film and can allow mildew to grow on that surface. If your deck is attacked by mildew, you can use any one of several cleaners specifically made to eradicate the problem. You can use bleach and dishwasher detergent in warm water to remove small black mildew spots.

How about occasional spills, grease spots, etc? If such spills and spots appear, you can use any heavy-duty grease remover. Wood bleach will get rid of rust marks from metal porch furniture, toys, etc. Composite decking does have some drawbacks but has beauty. With regular maintenance you have a nice deck for many years to come.

Darrell Suchocki invites you to benefit form his 25 years of experience in the construction trades as a builder and flooring installer and home water damage. See his website at http://decks-n-floors.com/ for comprehensive information about flooring and decks to make better home improvement buying decisions. Plus see other articles related to the home construction trade. http://decks-n-floors.com/

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Today's Modern Shed!

Today, one of the most popular trends in society is 'going green.' Often this means living simply, living small and living an organized life where you rinse, reuse and recycle. Interestingly, this phase has brought about thousands of modern shed plans and ideas that can help every family experience a bit of green living on their own. In fact, there are plenty of modern shed based plans that will have you scrambling for reusable lumber and building supplies.

Most modern shed plans are specifically designed to fit contemporary living. This means, if you rent a rooftop apartment, the shed can be assembled on the roof and fit in to match the modern decor of the building. Modern shed plans are also becoming popular as an add on to a home office, studio, workspace, garden shed or even guest house at an affordable cost. Of course, the dynamics of modern design will definitely cost a little bit more. Some of the more popular home shed companies offering prefab modern sheds have a starting list price of around $7,000 for the smallest available unit.

Some of the benefits of using shed plans to update your living spaces are that it frees up room in your home and garage. The buildings are also attractive and professional enough to fit in comfortably in any neighborhood, and remain professional enough to be a stand in for your booming business.

Most modern sheds utilize lots of windows and skylights, as well as interesting angles and shapes to fulfill their modern appeal. If that isn't enough to get you interested, sheds also take into account the consumers' desire to be environmentally friendly when manufacturing prefab sheds. For instance, some of the earth friendly accommodations are denim wall insulation, cork floor tiles, trex decking, structurally insulated panes, and Forest Stewardship Council certified wood. They also utilize earth friendly and 'green' roof options that can help eliminate the need for excessive electricity.

If you would love to try and build a modern shed of your own, and are interested in green living - you might want to start looking around at rummage sales and thrift markets for building materials. Additionally, look for Habitat for Humanity build stations in your area that sell pre-used or left over supplies from recent housing projects. Another idea - check with the couple down the street who has the dilapidated old out building and see if they would allow you to disassemble it and use the wood for your new modern shed.

The uses for a modern looking shed are varied. One popular use for many going green households has been to turn the environmentally friendly shed into a place that can facilitate their green mentality. You could add a composter and pile to the shed, recycling bins, use it to plant and pot herbs and food plants as well as have a place to store all those newspapers you have been collecting for recycling. The truth is the options are endless.

Modern sheds are definitely a far cry from the barn like structures you are accustomed to seeing. Look for some modern shed plans, and you can even create the perfect space for your college student or a mother in law suite to house all those visitors that just love to come and see you.

Michael Riley has been building sheds for years and likes to share his knowledge through his website. For more great information please go to modern sheds.

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