How to Lay Deck Boards Easily
April 6, 2022
Deck-board installation is a great way to create an extension in the home for relaxation and entertainment. Decorating the patio with a single-level deck framed with finely-finished timber woods naturally improves the look and feel of the home.
Decking in Boulder is either fixed to stand freely on their own or attached to the house. And the boards come in different patterns and shapes that allow the installer to get creative and come up with unique designs.
What Is a Deck Board?
It is commonly known as a home improvement material used in forming the surface of a deck. The boards come in different types, PVS, composite, or wood, and they can carry up to 100 lbs per square foot, depending on the purpose of its installation.
The boards come complete with good resistance to rot, dampness, cracks, fades, and warps, and they don't require extra touches (like sealing, painting, tinting) to look nice. Good quality lumber in Boulder is not affected by sun rays and is known to have a good slip-resistance ability. Composite decking is a fantastic alternative to wood.
Where to Install Deck Boards?
Deck boards can be laid on any dry and leveled ground. Before taking any step towards laying the decks, it is important to define the purpose for the construction. The purpose is what determines how the boards will be laid. People install decking for different reasons, for example -creating a place for privacy, relaxation, entertainment, or children's play area. People install deck boards for reasons best known to them, and these reasons are what determine the structure, design, size, and location of the fixture.
A homeowner can either decide to hire a professional for the installation or do the work themselves. Either way, the individual must consider these factors while planning for a deck project.
The nature of the ground: is the ground plane or slopy? Sloped grounds are not ideal for decking. Each of the boards needs to be rested on properly leveled ground.- How exposed is the location to sunlight? When building a space for relaxation, keep off from locations that are regularly stricken by sunlight as it can also affect a low-quality deck material.
- The panorama exposure: locate a nice spot (with a beautiful view in your home) to lay the boards.
- Consider privacy: check if the spot will provide the needed privacy.
- Avoid moisturized ground: Wet grounds cause deterioration and damage on the boards.
- Look out for supporting features: things like trees can help provide shields and structural support for the structure.
- Budget of the project: when working with a low budget, visit any Boulder hardware store to buy affordable deck materials that can suit your budget.
- Draw a plan: sketch your deck-board layouts and meticulously work it out. Try not to waste materials available.
Important questions to ask when planning a deck project
What type of deck board material is required?- What is the size of the spot?
- What is the dimension of the boards?
- What is the expansion gap needed for the deck boards?
- What are the required tools?
- What safety precautions or measures need to be observed during the process?
How to Lay Deck Boards
Deck board laying is not as difficult as it seems. With the right knowledge and guides, one can build an attractive deck that will spur neighbors to scream “wow!” And this is possible even for someone without prior experience.
- The first step towards achieving a successfully fitted and professionally looking deck is by creating accurate layouts for the deck. The layout guides the individuals to fix the boards in the perfect dimension and angle.
- Secondly, assemble all needed materials for the installation, and keep them on-site a day or two before the actual work begins to avoid running around to look for materials on the day of the project. The materials should be kept away from sun radiation, even the high-quality boards. Sunlight can alter the quality and appearance of the boards, and weak boards are easily affected by sunlight.
- Afterward, get the ground ready for the actual laying. An already dry and level ground won't need any groundwork. However, the installation would need to employ a land leveler machine and smoother to level plowed and uneven terrain. Another option for preparing the ground for composite decking in Boulder is to cover the leveled area with landscaping fabric; this will prevent plant and weed germination, which causes serious damage to the boards.
- The next step would be to create a solid base for the boards. The deck boards are usually installed on solid frames, and the frame is what provides structural support for the boards. The base can be built with a timber frame that is screwed and fastened together. Building a strong, safe, stable deck is impossible without a solid foundation. The foundation contains the load and pressures from the board. A strong foundation is what guarantees durability and sustainability.
- The project will require the individual to engage in some physical tasks like moving the boards, lifting heavy timbers, cutting, etc. The activity can be exhausting, so it’s important to get extra hands to assist in the lifting and cutting.
- Make good use of the measuring instrument, ensure that each of the boards is properly aligned according to measurement. And ensure that the cuts are accurate, use 90-degree when sawing so as to achieve a fine cut. After every cut, smoothen the edges after cutting and ensure there are no splinters.
- Create accurate drills by marking out the spots where holes need to be created, which will ultimately ensure correct fixings.
- Put on all the necessary protective outfits, which includes a face mask, safety goggles, gloves, etc.
- Avoid burning remnants of timber planks. Instead, dispose of them in the recycling bin or waste disposal unit. When they burn, toxic chemicals in the wood are released into the atmosphere.
Homeowners also have the option of consulting a reliable brand like Trex Decking Boulder for professional assistance regarding their deck board installation and maintenance.
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Why Wood Decking is Better Than Composite Decking for Your Home Thinking about sprucing up your backyard with a stunning deck? When it comes to choosing the right material for your deck , the decision often boils down to wood vs composite decking. Each option has its advantages, but many homeowners still prefer the classic appeal of wood decking for homes. If you're considering building a deck, we can explain why wood decking might be the perfect fit for your home. It offers a budget-friendly and beautiful outdoor oasis. Timeless Beauty of Wood Decking One of the most compelling reasons to choose wood decking is its natural beauty. Wood has a rich, warm appearance blends naturally with most outdoor environments. While composite decking has come a long way, it often can't replicate the organic feel and timeless charm of wood. Each wood plank is unique, offering varied grains, knots, and colors that make your deck one-of-a-kind. Additionally, wood decking can be easily stained or painted in various shades to match your home's aesthetic. If you ever want to change the look, refinishing wood is relatively simple, allowing you to switch up the vibe of your outdoor space without replacing the entire deck. Affordability When you compare wood vs composite decking, wood generally wins on price. Although composite decking materials have become more affordable, they can still be significantly more expensive than wood. Wood decking is a smart option if you're working with a tight budget but still want a high-quality deck. Budget Home Supply offers various wood types at competitive prices, making it easier to choose a cost-effective material without compromising quality. If you're handy, wood decking allows for a more budget-friendly DIY project. Eco-Friendly Option For environmentally conscious homeowners, wood decking is often the more sustainable option. Most wood used for decking is harvested from responsibly managed forests, making it a renewable resource. With proper care and maintenance, a wood deck can last for decades, reducing the need for frequent replacements that could add to waste. Composite decking, on the other hand, is made from a combination of plastic and wood fibers. While some composite products use recycled materials, many still rely on plastics, which can have a higher carbon footprint. If sustainability is a priority for you, choosing wood could help reduce your environmental impact. Comfort and Temperature If you plan on spending a lot of time on your deck, comfort is key. In the battle of wood vs composite decking, wood is often cooler underfoot, making it a more comfortable choice during hot summer months. Composite decking materials, especially darker colors, tend to absorb heat, making them uncomfortable to walk barefoot. This is vital to consider if you live in a warmer climate or if your deck gets direct sunlight. Wood's natural texture also makes it feel more inviting, giving it an organic softness that enhances the outdoor experience. Plus, wood won’t retain heat as much as synthetic materials, ensuring a more enjoyable space for entertaining and relaxing. Repairability Over time, wear and tear are inevitable, but wood decking is easier to repair than composite. If a section of your wood deck becomes damaged, you can typically replace individual boards or sand them down to restore the surface. With composite decking, repairs can be more complicated. Matching colors and textures in composite materials can be difficult, and some types of composite decking don’t allow for spot repairs, meaning you might need to replace larger deck sections. Wood's natural composition allows for refinishing, giving your deck a second life and saving you money in the long run. Regular sanding and staining can breathe new life into your deck, making it look almost brand new again. Classic Appeal There's something undeniably classic about wood decking for homes. It's a choice that has stood the test of time. From rustic to modern homes, wood can complement any architectural style. It's versatile, allowing various design options like custom railings, built-in seating, or intricate woodwork. The flexibility of wood as a material gives you endless possibilities when designing your outdoor space. While durable and low-maintenance, composite decking may not offer the same level of flexibility when it comes to customization. Wood is often the better option if you want a deck that feels like a true extension of your home. Customization Options When it comes to wood decking, you have several options, whether it’s pressure-treated wood, cedar, or exotic hardwoods like ipe or mahogany. Each type of wood offers unique qualities in terms of durability, appearance, and price. For instance, cedar is very resistant to rot and insects, which makes it a long-lasting option for outdoor decks. Additionally, Budget Home Supply offers a range of wood materials , allowing you to pick the right fit for your climate, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Maintenance It’s no secret that wood decks require more maintenance than composite decking, but it’s often overstated how much work wood needs. Basic care, such as annual cleaning, occasional sealing, and periodic staining, can keep your wood deck looking fantastic for years. Maintaining wood is straightforward with the right products and a little elbow grease. If you enjoy outdoor projects or take pride in keeping your home in top shape, maintaining a wood deck can be a satisfying experience. Plus, wood's ability to be sanded and refinished gives it an advantage over composite, which can show irreversible wear after years of use. Value and ROI When considering the long-term value of wood vs composite decking, wood often provides a better return on investment. Many homebuyers are drawn to the natural beauty of wood decks, which can enhance curb appeal and increase the overall value of your home. While composite decks may last longer and require less maintenance, they may not offer the same aesthetic appeal to prospective buyers. Wood decking provides a sense of craftsmanship and tradition, which can be especially appealing in homes with natural landscapes or older architectural styles. Refreshing your wood deck with stains or paints allows you to keep it looking fresh and appealing, further adding to its value. Bottom Line: Wood Decking Wins for Many Homeowners In the debate of wood vs composite decking, the natural beauty, affordability, and repairability of wood decking make it a standout choice for many homeowners. Whether you want to create a cozy backyard retreat or an elegant outdoor entertaining space, wood offers flexibility, timeless style, and a solid return on investment. At Budget Home Supply, we offer various wood decking materials to suit every need and budget. Consider wood if you want to build a deck that combines beauty with durability. Visit us at Budget Home Supply to explore your options and make your outdoor space the best it can be. So, why wait? Start planning your dream wood deck today!
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