Wood decks can be true works of art. However, as the year progresses, often your deck might start to lose its glamour. Dirt and grim can build up on the surface of the wood and hide the beauty of a well built deck. As such, a simple cleaning once or twice a year, or more if you prefer, can really help. There are just a few simple and easy steps to follow when cleaning a wood deck.

Begin by removing all deck accessories and decorations. It is important to clear your deck and remove items such as grills, furniture, and potted plants so that the entire surface is exposed. If there are any flower beds or plants that surround the area that can not be moved, cover them with a tarp to keep them safe.

The next step is to sweep your deck with a firm bristled broom. There may ...

The pressure treating process of lumber was invented approximately 70 years ago.  Up until 2004, the main method for pressure treating lumber was with chromated copper arsenate.  The main problem realized with CCA treated wood is that arsenic was discovered to leach out from this pressure treated lumber.  Unfortunately this meant that almost every deck, gazebo, pergola and playground was exposing families to the highly toxic arsenic.

Many proponents and individuals working in the lumber industry have categorically denied that CCA lumber is environmentally safe.  Claims have also been made that no one has been harmed or experienced any ill effects from CCA treated lumber.  Fortunately, independent testing and medical records has shown otherwise.  While the leaching out of toxins can be minimal, major negative health problems have been much higher when CCA lumber has been burned or exposure to sawdust from cutting the pressure treated lumber.  

While the levels ...

Waterproof decks over living space have proven to be a popular architectural detail. While the functionality of the deck over living space is nice, things turn ugly without proper waterproofing. A very large percentage of flat top roof decks end up leaking within the first several years due to improper design and/or use of the wrong materials. Using a waterproof deck contractor is a good starting point. This is a specialized field that even most general contractors don't like to deal with.

Some major considerations in proper deck design include proper slope, a good drainage scheme, and roof grade flashing details around all edges and walls. Without these crucial elements in place, it really does not matter what waterproofing system you employ. Using a trained waterproof deck expert will dramatically reduce your risk when installing a deck over living space.

Design of the deck over living space should ...

If you want to make your pool look a thousand times better, swimming pool decks can do the trick. It can be concrete or wood decking or vinyl even; installing a swimming pool deck can protect your back yard from turning into a mud bog and protect your guests from slipping in wet grass. It also transforms your yard into something quite extraordinary. Depending on the type of pool you have, whether it's in ground or above ground, your deck can be simple to very extravagant, small or extend from your backdoor to half way around your yard. It's up to you and your budget.

There are other limitations to your swimming pool deck plans. For instance if you have an above ground pool you wouldn't be able to build a concrete deck for it, nor would you want to. For one, it would jack the cost ...

Patios and decks are perfect additions to your home. It is an extra living space where it is great for attending guests and conducting social gatherings. Aside from that, it is a perfect place to relax in. You can get some sun for tan or even lounge to enjoy some time for yourself. However, these parts of the house need special attention. The beauty it has needs to be maintained since decks and patios are exposed to varying temperatures and conditions. But how do you do this?

Here are some tips:

1. Start by cleaning the area. This should be done frequently. Do not wait for dust, dried leaves, animal drops and other forms of dirt. Sweep the flooring or mop the tiles. Do wipe table tops and chairs. Remove dirty fabrics used as seat cover and change them with new ones.

2. The next best thing to do to ...

Many people like to lounge around the pool and sunbathe while waiting to take a dip. If you are one of these people and you are interested in above ground pool you will be delighted to know that there are many above ground pools with decks standard. These decks are often installed at the time of purchase and are included in the total price of your complete pool package.

Do-It-Yourself

If you have already purchased a high quality pool or having an existing above ground pool on your site it is not that difficult for a person with some talent in carpentry to build their own above ground pool deck. There are a ton of plans on the internet for how to accent above ground pools with decks. If you are crafty and pretty good at following building plans then make a go at it yourself. This is often much ...

In the not so distant past, decking did not enjoy the longevity it does today. Advancements in deck sealants, stains, and pressure treating wood have greatly enhanced the durability and appearance of the modern day deck. Proper annual or seasonal maintenance is still required to ensure a quality deck retains its quality over time. Choosing a better species of wood is the first place to start. A "better" species of wood is one which is more resilient to the harsh elements. There are only a few areas which do not receive a vast variety of temperature or climate changes. The majority of the U.S. is much like what North Carolina experiences year round. Temperatures ranging from freezing to hot can cause repeated and rapid contraction and expansion of deck lumber. Coupled with wet or icy conditions, most basic lumber, regardless of being pressure treated, will begin to show signs ...