In 2023, with continuing travel limitations, many have chosen to enjoy summer at home, making it an opportune time to rejuvenate your garden. Deck planning, easily done online with most materials deliverable to your doorstep, offers a hassle-free way to revamp an old wooden deck.
A study by Trex, a composite decking brand, found that nearly all participants (97%) value an appealing outdoor living space at home. Installing a deck not only enhances your property’s value but opting for composite decking brings advantages like eco-friendliness, minimal upkeep (requiring only occasional soap and water cleaning), and a lifespan exceeding 25 years, ensuring long-term enjoyment of your outdoor space.
Trex experts provide valuable advice for easily refurbishing your deck, transforming it into an effortless weekend project.
Planning Your Deck
Selecting the right decking color is crucial for the aesthetic of your outdoor area. Sources like magazines, manufacturers’ websites, and Pinterest can inspire suitable color choices for your setting. Decking color can either complement your home’s exterior, blend with the surroundings, or make a striking statement.
Various resources, including home improvement blogs, deck planning checklists, and instructional videos, aid in the planning process. Tools like the Trex Cost Calculator can estimate material costs for deck construction or refurbishment, taking into account size, substructure, and railing options, aiding in budget planning.
When choosing materials, it’s important to pick those that are durable and low-maintenance. Composite decking, such as Trex, resists fading, staining, scratching, and mold, and needs minimal upkeep compared to wood decking, which requires frequent sanding, staining, and painting. The long-term savings in maintenance, coupled with the time spent enjoying rather than maintaining the deck, make composite decking a wise investment.
Constructing Your Deck
After finalizing your design and color, follow Trex’s step-by-step video guide and these straightforward instructions to build a deck you’ll be proud of all summer long.
- Examine the Substructure: Before removing any boards, inspect the deck’s foundation, including footings, posts, and joists. Replace any soft, rot-indicative wood. If the framing and substructure are sound, you’re ready to proceed.Tip: To extend the life of your substructure, use protective tape like Trex® Protect™ on wooden joists and beams to prevent moisture-related rot and fastener loosening.
- Remove Old Deck Boards: Dismantle any railings and start removing the nailed decking boards, keeping the substructure intact. Begin from the deck’s outer edge and work towards the house.
- Level the Surface: Ensure the joists are level and even for a smooth foundation for the new deck boards. Plane or cut any bowed joists as necessary.
- Install New Deck Boards: Start laying the new composite boards near the house, securing the first board to the frame. Adhere to the manufacturer’s spacing guidelines. Regularly check the alignment with the house, adjusting gradually over several rows to avoid uneven gaps.
By following these guidelines, you can create a durable, attractive deck that enhances your outdoor living experience for many years.
