Category Archives: TimberTeck Decking

Ideas to Make Your Deck Stand Out of the Crowd

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Posted by Andy Lindus on May 3, 2012 – 6:23 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, Construction, different decking options, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Home Safety, how to build a deck, Lindus Construction, Remodeling, TimberTech Composite Decking, TimberTeck Decking, Uncategorized, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show
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When pondering the idea of building a deck, there are some factors that you need to consider regarding what you intend it to be used for as well as how it will function. A deck provides an additional open space area for use. It is a great place for entertaining in the warmers months and also serves a purpose of a relaxation area. Below we will discuss ideas to think about when designing your dream deck that will stand out compared to traditional decks.

Size
You don’t want to have the largest deck on your block, but you also don’t want to have the smallest either.  Your deck size should be proportionate to the size of your home. If you have a larger home you can increase the size of your deck. You would not want to put a huge deck on a smaller home. Make sure that the size of your deck will fit your entertaining needs. Visualize the items that you intend to put on your deck such as a patio set; grill, bar etc. because those are going to shrink up the space. Optimizing your space you have on your deck will make your deck seem larger without necessarily increasing the cost to your pocket book.  When visualizing your deck size think of traffic patterns, how you get onto the deck and where you are going to put your stairs. All of these factors will help you decide the perfect and most functional deck size to fit your needs.

Multi-level vs. Ground Level
If you home has a walk out on the second level, building a raised deck to accommodate this is a very common option. Depending on the height of your home building a multi-level deck might be the answer for you.  Be sure when building multi-level decks that the placement of stairs is in the most functional area. The nice thing about multi-level decks is that you can have one large main area which could host your patio set, grill and possibly a fire pit. You could use another one of the levels for a seating area or hot tub space. Keep in mind if you have a hot tub and are planning on putting it on a multi-level deck that they are extremely heavy and you will need to add extra support to that area of the deck.

Ground level decks are very inviting and blend more naturally into you yard space. You will save some dough on not having the cost factors associated with building stairs. Also the risk of injury is greatly decreased since it is level with the ground. If you do not have any stairs on your ground level deck you need to make sure that it is constructed so it is not resting directly on the ground because of shifting. You can have a small area under the deck that you could cover with lattice or even rocks to add a natural landscaping touch. The nice thing about ground level decks is that you are able to use the entire space because you do not have railings getting in the way.  If designed right, your ground level deck can be viewed as a continuation of your home, as it gives the perception of extending your living space. Another nice touch is creating a walkway of unique pavers from your home to your ground level deck which will add more functionality as well as offer another benefit of attraction.

Railing Options
Railings offer safety and support to your deck, but can also be used as a focal point to add style and personality. The type and style of railing you choose can really set it apart from a traditional look.  Instead of using straight wood posts, you can alternate each post using one traditional post and then a carved design post. If you are set on using a wood railing, consider using the posts and balusters in vertical and horizontal position to create a geometric line drawing adding elegance. A hot new trend right now is using metal railings incorporated with your wood deck. Decorative aluminum or steel balusters are a cost effective way to step up the design and overall look of your deck. Another emerging trend is the use of cable railings. It will offer your deck a sleek modern look with having the benefits of being low maintenance and will also preserve your view off of your deck.

Shape
Another way to up the ante regarding the design of your deck is shape. This can drastically increase your home’s exterior appeal. You can build a deck in virtually any shape, but you need to consider the more uncommon your deck shape the more expensive it could be. If you like the idea of going with a different shape than a traditional square or rectangle style try to consider the lines of your home and how that will compliment your vision. If you have a home that is non-traditional with peaks and valleys, you might want to stick with a simple design.  Contemplate the idea of doing a wraparound or L-shaped deck to give your area a stunning look. Shape doesn’t always mean the form of your deck. Take into account changing the angle of your decking boards to add a more intriguing look.

Stain
Forget the old-fashioned colors of stain, you have more of an array to choose from than ever before. We would highly recommend if you have a wood deck to use the brand Penofin. This product is light years ahead of any stain that you have used in the last decade. This stain product is made out of Brazilian Rosewood Oils.  It is 100% sustainable, petroleum free oil finish with no heavy metal compounds or odors. This is an environmentally sound product that is safe for use around children and pets and comes in 18 lustrous colors for use on every type of wood species. To find out more regarding this remarkable product check out their website at www.penofin.com.

Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate.

Start on your Deck Project Now So You Can Enjoy It All Summer

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Posted by Andy Lindus on March 22, 2012 – 4:49 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, Construction, different decking options, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Home Safety, how to build a deck, Lindus Construction, Remodeling, TimberTech Composite Decking, TimberTeck Decking
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What Style of Decking Fits You Best?

When it comes to decking, you have a larger array than ever before and your options are far more varied than using just plain wood. Here are some options of decking materials to consider.

  • Pressure Treated Lumber – This is the most economical approach; it is the number one decking material sold today and you can pretty much find it anywhere across the US. The drawback to using this material is that it has a tendency to crack, split or warp over time.  It also has the highest maintenance of any decking product because you will need to stain or use a wood preservative every two to three years.
  • Redwood & Cedar – Contain tannins and oils that make them naturally resistant to rotting and decay. You will notice this material is very rich in color and has natural beauty compared to pressure treated lumber. This product is going to cost you about three times more than pressure treated lumber and you will have to treat it every three to four years.
  • Tropical Hardwoods – Are comparable in price to Redwood and Cedar lumber. Tropical hardwoods like Mahogany and Ironwood are extremely hard, resistant to insects and very durable. A downfall of this product is that it can be difficult to drill and cut and they do not accept stain very well. It does however work well with clear wood preservative that you will have to re-apply every three to four years.
  • Composite –Using composite decking, such as the TimberTech brand, will provide you the look and feel of real wood without the maintenance. This is an innovative hidden fastener decking system which is so durable it is fire resistant. This composite decking will provide you many years without the work of painting, staining or sealing while it maintains its color and beauty. TimberTech’s warranty offers 25-years of coverage and can be transferred to a second homeowner, which is a great selling feature.  TimberTech incorporates as many sustainable materials into their products without sacrificing quality and is a proud member of the U.S. Green Building Council. Composite decking additions are estimated to produce roughly 70% ROI when you choose to install this material at your home. You will also have the option of choosing from dozens of deck and rail color combinations or even mix and match to get the perfect look.

Location, Location, Location! Choosing the Right Site for Your Project

Where you decide to build your deck is one of the most important things to consider. There are a lot of factors that you need to contemplate instead of just choosing somewhere at the rear of your home.  There are no rules that say a deck has to be attached to your home. All of these elements below can affect the design of your deck and help you make a decision where to build it.

  • Evaluate the terrain of your yard – If you are dealing with a fairly level surface your building project will most likely not be that complicated. Uneven terrain, where you might be dealing with more slopes, you will have to consider grading the area or possibly constructing a retaining wall. If you prefer the look of an uneven surface and that it provides more of an aesthetic value you could put large posts down the slopes and build a multilevel deck to accomplish this look.
  • Weather pattern at your site – Assessing how the weather will play a role in entertaining on your beautiful new deck is very important. During your planning process make sure to take note regarding how much sun hits the site. You might decide that an area closer to natural shade, such as trees or shrubs, would be a better fit.
  • Is the area functional for what you intend to use it for?– If you are planning on entertaining a lot on your new deck is it close enough to your home, pool or grilling area. The last thing that you want to do when hosting a party is have to trek a long distance for supplies.
  • What do you see when standing in the area of the site – An eyesore such as a busy road, staring into your neighbor’s home or being blocked from the view you had intended could hinder the use of your deck.
  • What type of soil do you have? – There are limitless types of soil that affect where and how you build your new deck. If your soil has a sandy base it is great for your landscaping endeavors, but building codes may require that you pour concrete footings. Clay based soil can produce more runoff and you will need to put in a drainage system to divert the water away from your deck.

Protection from the elements

Just like we put sunscreen on ourselves you need to shield your deck as well. The sun’s rays can break down the material on your deck which can cause incredible damage. If you chose to work with lumber decking instead of composite, you will need to stain and seal your new deck to avoid rot, which is caused by excessive moisture leading to mold and collapse. Make sure to hose off your deck in the spring and fall. If you live in an area that experiences winter months remove leaves and twigs on your deck as soon as you can to avoid deterioration in any way.

Don’t Forget Your Building Permit

If you are attempting to build a deck as a do-it-yourself project make sure that you read up on the local codes. The last thing that you want to do is have to rip up your beautiful deck you spent all summer building because you did not acquire a permit. Contact your local county or city website to apply for a permit and most of these websites offer the forms online to make this process easier than ever before.

Would you feel better having a professional make your dream deck a reality this spring so you can entertain all summer? We can make that happen! Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.