Porchs and Decks

When it comes to decking board lumber there are several choices, including 2X4 and 2X6. Also popular are 5/4 X6 and 5/4 X4 with rounded “bullnose” edges. While redwood and cedar are attractive, as well as insect and weather resistant, pressure-treated lumber is also a good option. Another popular choice is re-cycled plastic fiber decking. Re-cycled plastic decking looks like wood, but is virtually impervious to weather and insects; it requires no wood deck stain or maintenance. Although this type material has adequate strength for decking, traditional lumber is required for the posts, box frame, and joists.

Whatever decking material you choose our trained professionals will insure that it is correctly secured to the joists and box frame. For a more decorative look, we can also install the decking on a 45-degree angle to the joists and box frame. This will increase stability and minimize racking. This method requires a little extra skill and precision; to insure proper cutting and fit, made easier by our vast experience in the field. Decking boards should be fastened to joists with the best side up; boards do not require spacing unless they are “kiln dried” lumber or man–made material which will not shrink. If so, it should be spaced at about 1/8-inch intervals. All other deck lumber should be tight, to allow for shrinkage. Fasten deck boards to joists with galvanized or stainless steel spiral or ring-shank nails, or deck screws. Two spaced at about ¾-inch from board edges on each joist is adequate. Torx head deck screws are much less prone to stripping.

Pressure Treated Wood

Pressure treated wood is the most common wood decking material because it is cheapest and it last for about 15 years. This economical wooden decking is typically made from pine and is easy to find at your local lumber yard. The chemicals used to treat this wood makes it resistant to fungus, decay, rot and termites. The wood can splinter if it is not maintained. It is recommended that stainless steel deck fasteners be used because the chemicals used to treat the wood are highly corrosive. Because this treated wood contains such toxic chemicals, contractors should use gloves and a mask when they are cutting and installing this material and the remnants should never be burned. Pressure treated pine has a greenish tinge that goes to a yellow-brown before weathering to gray. This decking can be painted or stained and sealed.

Cedar and Redwood Decking

Redwood and cedar decking are natural defenders against insects and rot. Sun fades untreated cedar and redwood to a silver gray. To prevent the wood from fading the decking needs to be stained and sealed, or just sealed with a sun blocking finish. This durable decking should last up to twenty years if it is well cared for.

Mahogany and Ipé Decking

Mahogany and Ipé are expensive hardwoods that have a strong resistance to insects and rot. Untreated these dark brown and amber to dark brown woods will also weather to gray. Sealing the wood is recommended to preserve its color and natural beauty. These hardwoods are more difficult to install as pre-drilling is required. These woods are graded according to their strength and appearance.

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If you have a question about deck building or would like to schedule your free in-home estimate, please call our office at: (773)  930-4533  email us at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or simply fill out an online estimate form for a free in-home consultation.