When building your dream deck, the thrill of creating a beautiful outdoor living space can turn into frustration when you commit common mistakes. Each year, countless decks suffer from issues like structural weaknesses and rapid deterioration due to poor material choices and improper installation.
In this article, we’ll explore how Deckorators® can help you avoid these pitfalls with their high-quality composite decking materials. Whether you’re a novice builder or a seasoned professional deck builder, understanding these fundamentals can save you time, and money, and ensure the safest decks.
Mistake #1: Choosing Inferior Materials
The choice of deck materials is crucial to the longevity and safety of your deck. Common mistakes include using natural wood that is prone to water damage, standing water absorption, and rot. This leads to costly repairs, which can result in deck collapses and make your outdoor decks unsafe. Traditional wood materials often require regular maintenance and can deteriorate if not properly maintained.
Deckorators® offers a revolutionary solution with their composite decking materials that mimic the natural color and texture of wood without the inherent weaknesses. These composite boards resist moisture, thwarting the common attraction of water that plagues wooden decks. The durable, rot-resistant nature of Deckorators® composite decking means it stands up to the elements far better than traditional wood, requiring less maintenance and offering greater longevity. This makes Deckorators® an ideal choice for building a quality deck that maintains the aesthetic appeal of solid wood while ensuring structural integrity and safety.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Structural Integrity
Many decks face issues due to basic structural oversights. One major mistake is improper joist spacing. If the joists are too far apart, the deck boards may sag or break. Another critical error is installing inadequate deck footings. Footings that are too shallow can’t support the weight of the deck, especially in frost-prone areas where frost heave can push the footings upward. Both of these issues can jeopardize the safety of the entire deck.
Deckorators® takes deck safety seriously. Their products comply with the latest building codes and safety standards. They offer a range of composite deck materials designed to handle thousands of pounds of weight. Deckorators® also provides detailed installation instructions. These guidelines help ensure that every structure is built with the correct spacing and footings for decks. This careful planning helps prevent structural issues and extends the lifespan of the deck.
Mistake #3: Overlooking Design and Planning Needs
A common pitfall in deck building is inadequate planning. Many decks do not comply with local safety codes because they were not properly designed from the start. This lack of planning can lead to decks that are unsafe and may need expensive redesigns later. Proper planning is essential to avoid such costly and stressful situations.
Deckorators® provides comprehensive resources to ensure every deck is designed with precision and safety in mind. They offer advanced deck design tools that allow you to visualize your space in various configurations before construction begins.
Additionally, Deckorators® experts are available for consultations to guide you through the design phase. This ensures that your deck meets all building regulations and personal preferences for your outdoor space. These resources streamline the planning process, making it easier to achieve the perfect deck without design and planning errors.
Mistake #4: Neglecting Proper Installation Techniques
Improper installation can undermine even the best decking materials. Common mistakes include using the wrong deck fasteners, which can lead to loose boards and structural instability, and incorrect installation of deck boards, such as poor alignment or spacing. These errors can compromise the deck’s integrity and safety.
Deckorators® provides detailed installation guides that cover everything from the correct choice of fasteners to the precise spacing of deck boards. These guides ensure every step of the installation process is clear and easy to follow.
Additionally, Excel Custom Decks, a trusted partner of Deckorators®, is adept with proper deck-building techniques needed for safe installation. Their partnership with Deckorators® guarantees adherence to the highest standards of deck building that ensure the safety and durability of the outdoor living space.
Mistake #5: Disregarding Building Codes and Regulations
Many deck projects run into trouble due to a failure to comply with local building codes. This oversight can lead to unsafe decks, legal issues, and even the need to dismantle a newly built deck. Ensuring compliance with deck building codes is a critical step in safeguarding the well-being of everyone who uses the outdoor space.
Deckorators® ensures that all deck materials, from the composite deck boards to the structural metal connectors, meet rigorous safety standards and comply with the latest building codes. Deckorators® provides resources, including guidelines on joist spacing, the correct use of galvanized fasteners, and the installation of deck undercarriage components, to help ensure that every aspect of your deck meets safety codes.
Mistake #6: Facing Maintenance Challenges
Traditional wood decks often require frequent maintenance, including staining and repairs. These maintenance requirements can be time-consuming and costly and prevent from you enjoying your outdoor space. Additionally, wood decks are susceptible to weathering, staining, and fading over time, requiring ongoing upkeep to maintain their appearance and structural integrity.
Deckorators® composite decking offers a superior alternative with its low-maintenance advantages. Unlike wood decks, Deckorators® composite decking resists weathering, staining, and fading. With Deckorators®, you can spend less time on maintenance tasks and more time enjoying your outdoor space.
Conclusion
Opting for Deckorators® for your deck-building project ensures safety, durability, and low maintenance. By choosing Deckorators® composite decking, you sidestep common issues often found with traditional wooden decks.
Excel Custom Decks, in collaboration with Deckorators®, provides a seamless experience from design to completion. By choosing us as your deck contractor, you can trust that your deck will be flawlessly installed. So, make the savvy choice and relish your outdoor space with Deckorators® and Excel Custom Decks. Contact us and let’s make your deck plan a reality!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common deck failure?
The most common deck failure is structural collapse due to inadequate support, such as deteriorating wood joists or improperly secured ledger boards. Deck collapses often result from years of wear and tear, including exposure to the elements and insufficient maintenance. Regular inspections and timely repairs can help prevent such catastrophic failures.
What type of finish should be used on a deck?
A high-quality exterior deck finish, such as a penetrating oil-based stain or water-based sealer, is recommended to protect the wood from UV rays, moisture, and foot traffic. These finishes penetrate the wood fibers and provide long-lasting protection. Regular reapplication according to the manufacturer’s instructions helps maintain the finish’s effectiveness.
How long does it take to build a deck?
The time it takes to build a deck depends on various factors, including the size of the deck, complexity of the design, and skill level of the builder. On average, a simple deck project can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to complete. More elaborate designs or custom features require additional time for planning and construction.
What are the legal requirements or permits needed for deck building?
Legal requirements and permits for deck building vary depending on local building codes and regulations. Generally, you will need to obtain a building permit before starting construction on your deck. Permits involve submitting detailed deck plans and paying a fee. Inspections may be required at different stages of construction to ensure compliance with safety standards and zoning ordinances.
How do I know if my deck joists are bad?
Signs of bad deck joists include sagging or uneven decking, visible cracks or splits in the wood, and excessive movement or bouncing when walked upon. You may also notice soft spots or areas of decay, especially near the ends of the joists or where they connect to other structural components. If you suspect your deck joists are compromised, have them inspected by a professional to determine the best course of action.
