Deck Construction Columbus Ohio – Page 2 – Columbus Decks, Porches and Patios by Archadeck of Columbus

Top 5 Reasons to Build a Composite/Synthetic Deck by Archadeck of Columbus.

Archadeck of Columbus gives you the top 5 reasons to build a composite/synthetic deck.

Composite deck Columbus — This composite/synthetic deck by Archadeck of Columbus says it all.

When considering which type of decking material to construct your new deck from the number of choices, this otherwise easy task can turn into a quite daunting one. It can seem sometimes like there is a little person on each shoulder, one of which is shouting “wood” and the other is shouting “composite”. Archadeck of Columbus is here to help you silence the shouting. Composite/synthetic is definitely the way to go for many reasons. The low maintenance, the beauty, and the consistency to remain looking like new are just a few reasons to choose composite/synthetic decking for your new deck. We have compiled a list of the top 5 reasons to build your new deck out of synthetics. The list is in no particular order of importance and was compiled to assist homeowners in making the daunting task of choosing their decking material a little easier.

columbus TimberTech Earthwood — TimberTech's Earthwood composites have the look of wood without the headaches.

1) No staining or painting, ever– with any wood deck you’re going to need to take care of it. Wood is also a natural material therefore, eventually, with any wood, it will rot. Depending on the deck’s location in relation to the sun, you might have to maintain a wood deck more readily if it is facing west with the sun’s rays beating down onto it constantly. Wood needs to be treated at a minimum of once per year. Wood decks also require power-washing to remove staining prior to sanding. It is also recommended to pre-treat a wood deck to ensure cleanliness before you apply any stain or paint. An average 300 sq. foot deck can cost between $500 to $900 per year to maintain properly. If your wood deck has a lot of details such as railings it can take a tremendous amount of time to stain or paint as well.

2) No more tweezer torture– Okay, we can all relate to this one. You or the kids get a splinter by simply walking barefoot across your wooden deck or one of the kids inevitably picks up a splinter every time they chase each other around the deck. You’re yelling stop running but it’s not because you’re scared of a fall. It’s because you dread putting your kids through tweezer torture to get splinters out. If your wood deck is not kept up to par, splinters will become an issue. Wood will move and expand with heat, and when it expands, it will not always shrink back and this causes splinters. Splinters can be a real headache, especially when you have to get out the tweezers to painfully remove the splinter and put yourself or your child through an instant replay of pain. Splinters hurt as much coming out as they do going in. Who wants a deck you can’t enjoy in your bare feet anyway?

TimberTech Earthwoods with Aluminum railings Columbus — This composite/synthetic deck by Archadeck of Columbus will retain its beauty for many years to come.

3) What you see is what you get– Synthetics retain that “like new” color and feel , so what you see is what you will still have years from now. Synthetics won’t fade like wood. Wood can fade gradually and over time you no longer get what you paid for, sort of like that expensive pair of designer jeans that fade out in the wash over time, one day you look down and think “wow” what happened?

4) 15 year warranty for wood VS 25+ year warranty on composite/synthetic– This one is really a “no brainer”. Usually the 15-year warranty on wood has a clause about “normal wear and tear”, which includes the pains of naturally aging wood like splintering, twisting, cupping, checking not to mention the other aches and pains of naturally weathering wood like fading among others. Today’s composite/synthetic decking has a 25+ year warranty, and they’ve only been around for close to 20 years, so the product could exceed the warranty by years beyond that.

Azek Harvest Series - Brownstone — This AZEK deck entails quality, beauty and a warranty to match.

5) A smart investment– If you’re making an investment in your home, it should be a smart investment. You wouldn’t buy a brand new car only to anticipate the transmission falling out after only 1,000 miles would you? Of course not, then why invest in a deck that is going to decay and fade over time when you can invest in a deck that will be like driving it off the showroom floor in 10 years?

With so many positive attributes in composite/synthetic decking nowadays, it is easy to make an informed and smart decision. Another great choice is pure PVC decking products such as AZEK, TimberTech XLM and TimberTech Earthwood Essentials. These pure PVC products are non-porous , so stains won’t happen at all. You can also learn more about composite/synthetic decking materials by reading a wonderful story written last year on the subject https://columbus-decks.com/2010/02/11/wood-plastic-composites-vs-pvc-decking/

To learn more about the joys of owning a composite/synthetic deck contact Archadeck of Columbus (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net We can create a deck that is made to enjoy, not to constantly worry about maintaining.

You can also see photos of other stunning composite/synthetic decks in our photo gallery at http://columbus.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/composite-and-vinyl.html

At Archadeck of Columbus, a picture is worth 1,000 words.

Archadeck of Columbus finds severe damage in this home in Dublin, OH left from poor workmanship of the previous builder, but takes it all in stride, and sets out to make it all right. The end result being a quality, and structurally sound deck these homeowners can be proud of.

proper_rubber_membrane_on_deck_lr — This photo is an after photo showing the proper rubber membrane that was installed by Archadeck of Columbus

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words. The pictures I have posted below showing the poor workmanship in regards to the work completed by a previous builder at this home in Columbus, OH speak volumes. Archadeck of Columbus was called out to these homeowners’ residence to replace their decking, cable railings, posts and add lighting and a drainage system. Once we arrived at the home we found a deluge of mistakes left by the previous builder. Thus begins the process of making the construction another builder did improperly, our job, by fixing the areas within our grasp for the safety of the homeowners as well as the structural integrity of the home. Please watch the video detailing what we found…

house_rotted_under_windows_near_deck_connection_lr — This photo shows the rot around the windows near the deck connection

The first obstacle we encountered was a portion of the deck which lies above the basement in this home that showed evidence of rotting around the windows and doors which indicates water was getting into the home’s basement. Proof positive that improper building techniques led to the decay. When we removed the old deck in preparation of installing the new deck, there was also a tremendous amount of rot. The house itself was not outfitted with the proper preventative of Tyvek when it was built, the lack of this crucial material promoted rot and decay throughout the structure. Tyvek is a barrier which is used in home construction to increase air and water resistance and provide protection from water and moisture.

house_not_water_protected_and_rotting_lr — Improper building techniques led to rot and decay.

Archadeck of Columbus was able to fix the areas surrounding the location of the deck, as well as installing Tyvek around the doors and new aluminum flashing around the doors.

proper_deck_sub_structure_lr — This photo shows the proper sub-structure built by Archadeck of Columbus

When we pulled up the old deck the beams were run perpendicular to the house, which is not customary when building a deck. Archadeck of Columbus rebuilt the sub-structure of the deck to our standards. You have to have a correct and firm foundation for any structure you build.

The stone area near the stairs was vas poorly constructed at best and falling down. The lights did not work as well.

proper_door_protection_before_new_decking_structure_lr — Proper door protection was installed before the new decking was completed

house_rotting_lr — Construction like this is sad and unfortunate

When we come into contact and witness the shoddy construction that some builders try to get away with, it is unfortunate and saddening. This is the main reason it is so important to hire an experienced, qualified and licensed builder.

Archadeck of Columbus has a track record of quality built structures for over 10 years. We have a A+ rating with the BBB, ( Better Business Bureau). We received the “Super Service award” from Angies list 5 years running. This award is quite prestigious with only a mere 5% of the service providers on Angie’s list receiving this award. We have been recommended by TimberTech as a premier contractor in the area. We also have a multitude of satisfied customers, some of which have called upon us to build more than just one structure for them. We are proud of our record and proud to offer homeowners in the Columbus, OH area quality construction that is built to endure years of enjoyment. That is what we refer to as the “Archadeck difference.”

Contact Archadeck of Columbus to plan, design and build quality and integrity into your outdoor structure. (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Please visit our web site to read the testimonials of Archadeck of Columbus’ customers http://columbus.archadeck.com/local/Testimonials.html

Archadeck of Columbus adds curves of distinction to custom decks in Dublin, OH

Archadeck of Columbus talks about previewing an upcoming deck in the Muirfield Village community in Dublin, OH. We also show you the innovative process of achieving radius edging when installing a deck.

Columbus Dublin custom TimberTech deck — Custom TimberTech deck with radius edging by Archadeck of Columbus

Homes within this Columbus suburb of Dublin, OH include a multitude of beautiful custom-built homes with the widest array of custom features inside and out. Archadeck of Columbus will be profiling one such residence in Muirfield Village later this month where we are installing a stunning new deck. With custom-built homes of this quality and stature it is important to hire a custom deck builder to install your decking as well. Custom deck builders, just like custom home builders have the experience, knowledge and capability to ensure your new deck has quality materials and workmanship poured into the structure. Custom deck builders also stay “in the know” when it comes to unique custom features that become popular.

The world of decks is constantly changing to include many new features and innovative design concepts. One of the custom deck features that have become quite popular recently include a custom radius edging. At Archadeck of Columbus, we really enjoy using radius edge decking. This story details the whole innovative process from beginning to end.

We mold the decking boards into a curvilinear radius edging by heating the boards to a certain temperature in order to make them pliable. This process is fascinating to watch and we actually have video footage detailing the entire process. In this video, we show you how we heat the boards themselves.

Once the boards are heated to the accurate temperature they are then carefully remove

Then, while the boards are still hot, we install the boards within pre-determined curved framing to achieve the distinct curvilinear design that is tops among custom decks today. This video shows the installation in real-time

This entire process is fascinating to witness from start to finish, and ends with breathtaking results. With custom deck design, gone are the days of being confined to straight lines and edges in landscaping, patio designs, and deck designs. Flower beds now take on wondrous edging, and curving paths. Retaining walls even enjoy meandering curved paths down the sides of patios and landscape showcases. There are so many more options available to homeowners now.

If you are ready to add a deck worthy of distinction to your home contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more. (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

You can also visit our photo galleries to view many more innovative and beautiful deck designs at http://columbus.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/Decks.html

Multi-Level Decks and Deck and Patio Combinations Mean Multi-Levels of Unique Beauty and Added Function

Multi-level decks as well as deck and patio combinations are the growing trend in the Columbus, OH market. Archadeck of Columbus gives you some wonderful examples of the different combinations, with function and beauty in mind.

Columbus_low_to_grade_Timbertech_Composite_Deck_with_Patio_Columbus_Ohio — Low-to-grade composite deck with hardscape patio by Archadeck of Columbus

Here at Archadeck of Columbus the growing trend we continue to see among our customers is multi-level structures such as multi-level decks and decks that step down to patios and landscaping. Not only are these structures pleasing to the eye on multiple levels but they are built with multiple ways to enjoy your structure. Bi-leveled structures maintain room for a multitude of uses some of which would include separate dining, separate gathering areas and separate seating areas.

Most homeowners usually have a deck or patio only. By utilizing a combination of both of these structures you will not only have two distinct living areas, but you will also have multiple outdoor living areas which is unique. In today’s markets having the “unique” will enhance your investment in your outdoor living structure.

Low_to_grade_deck_in_Columbus_Ohio_with_firepit — Low-to-grade deck with fire pit by Archadeck of Columbus

A classic example, and one most homeowners can relate to, is the scenario of the backyard dinner party where the men and women usually end up congregating in separate spots on your single level deck or patio. The added space and separation a multi-level structure provides would give your male and female guests alike room to stretch out and enjoy their evening . You could even heat things up a little by adding a fire pit to create a distinct area. One level could make room for seating and dining and the other could be seating and the fire pit area.

Multi-Level_Cedar_Deck_with_low_to_grade_portion_and_Gazebo_Marysville_OH — This low to grade deck has a gazebo added to the lower level which allows cover from the elements

Another unique and aesthetically pleasing option is a gazebo or pergola added to one the levels in your your multi-level structure. Not only are these structures stunning to look at but they add shade to your space. Structures such as these would allow for shelter from the elements as well, so even if a summer shower comes to ruin your backyard barbecue your guests can move under the covered structure portion of your structure until the rain passes.

multi_level_low_to_grade_Floating_Bench_Flaired_Steps_Columbus_Delaware_County — This multi-level low to grade deck has flared steps and a floating bench

Multi-level structures are common in the Columbus area because of our terrain. The average home is about 30″ off the ground so it makes a perfect place to have two distinct areas. Low-to-grade decks are still a popular choice in this area as well. The beauty part of a low-to-grade deck is the option of not requiring a rail. Structures less than 30″ off the ground do not require a rail by code. advantages of not having a rail are the ability to see an un-obstructed view of landscaping, or hardscaping, or other focal point in your landscape, as well as the additional room you will have to add seating, furniture or planters. A clear uninhibited view is appreciated by many homeowners. If you have a relatively flat grade to your yard hardscapes such as patios are easier to construct.

Low_to_Grade_Deck_with_Landscaping_Westervile_Ohio_Columbus — Low-to-grade deck with exquisite landscaping

There are two things about being close to ground-level that we want to caution homeowners about. If the grade is extremely low the structure will require more posts to structure because you can’t use a beam construction. We use a true post and beam construction but with low to grade structures the posts are actually attached to joists which eliminate the beam. The second concern is the moisture and ventilation issue. Most communities require landscape fabric with gravel be put down to avoid grass and weed growth into the deck. This barrier also inhibits animals and helps keep it drier. Archadeck of Columbus recommends being no less than 16″ off the ground to alleviate structural costs and ventilation issues.

If you are considering a multi-level deck or deck and patio multi-level combination, or one of many other unique combinations, give Archadeck of Columbus a call to discuss what type of structure is best for you. We can schedule a free consultation to evaluate which grade would best suit your lot and design and construct the structure of your dreams.

A low-to-grade photo gallery in the Columbus OH area

There are multiple benefits to a low-to-grade as we will write about in the next blog post. We have quite a few photos for design ideas so we wanted to share a photo gallery for inspiration if you’re considering a low-to-grade deck.

Columbus low to grade composite deck with pergola

Columbus low to grade deck Floating Bench Flaired Steps Delaware County OH — Columbus low to grade deck Floating Bench Flared Steps Delaware County OH

Columbus low to grade Deck with Corner Gazebo

Columbus low to grade double deck with firepit

Columbus low to grade Timbertech composite deck multiple levels and Gazebo for hot tub. — Columbus low to grade TimberTech composite deck multiple levels and Gazebo for hot tub.

Double low to grade deck in Columbus OH with fire pit

Low to grade deck Powell Ohio Delaware County Ohio

Low to grade Poolside Deck with Pergola and Privacy Fence Columbus OH

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Multi-level Timbertech XLM Deck low to grade Columbus OH — Multi-level TimberTech XLM Deck low to grade Columbus OH

#11

Multiple Level Pine Deck with low to grade in Powell Delaware County OH

#12

Poolside low to grade Timbertech Deck in Columbus OH — Poolside low to grade TimberTech Deck in Columbus OH

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Timbertech low to grade Deck and Screen Porch in Columbus — TimberTfech low to grade Deck and Screen Porch in Columbus

A Nightmarish Construction Turns into a Happily Ever After when Archadeck of Columbus Takes the Wheel

Archadeck of Columbus tells a nightmarish tale of construction pitfalls to warn other homeowners of the dangers of not hiring a professional contractor.

All too often, we hear horror stories from homeowners that have become our customers as a result of hiring some “handyman” to build their outdoor structure, only to find out too late that they did not have a clue as to what they were doing. Then that homeowner ends up calling us following the disaster to make amends and build the structure properly. I guess you could say we sometimes serve as “the calm after the storm”. This is a tattered tale of one such event, listen closely to see it you can figure out the moral of the story…

Once upon a time a homeowner hired a contractor to do a TimberTech installation at his residence. Before the job even got off the ground the homeowner realized there were a lot of things awry with the job.First of all, the contractor he hired did not obtain a proper permit. By law a building permit for any structure, or addition is to be posted in clear view at the job site. It is also crucial to make sure the contractor has proper liability insurance, you can indemnify them by adding their name on it.

The contractor did other bad deeds as well, such as putting rubber membrane underneath the decking boards, so it was between the decking boards and the joists. The contractor then screwed the decking down through the membrane. The screws and nails they used for the job were not supposed to be used for exterior applications, so in a short time, the nails they used for the framing would have deteriorated when used in combination to the treated pine joists. Also, the hidden fasteners used were not the proper TimberTech fastener system.

This particular contractor, did such a horrendous job, A video showing the deflection of the boards when you pushed on the boards was made. We made the video to warn other homeowners of the potential hazards and pitfalls of not hiring a professional contractor. There is no way to do enough research to understand what the contractor is doing wrong or the requirements for each job. This is the beauty of hiring a professional, we have knowledge of the products, the requirements and we build quality into every inch of our structures. We call it ” the Archadeck difference”.

With almost all synthetic decking, such as TimberTech, it requires that you run your joists at a minimum of 16″ on center when you run the decking perpendicular. If you run the decking on a diagonal it needs to be a minimum of 12″ on center. We always make sure the joists are 12″ on center. It is crucial with any synthetic decking that the contractor follows the installation instructions by the board manufacturer.

This story did end on a happy note, the very distressed homeowner called TimberTech. TimberTech gave the homeowners our name and told him to call Archadeck of Columbus because of our prior knowledge, experience and expertise of working with the TimberTech products. Archadeck of Columbus is completely re-doing the job, the way it should have been done to begin with.

We asked the homeowner how they found the bad contractor. They indicated that their neighbors had a deck built by the other contractor. So, we went next door to see if the contractor did the same thing at the neighbor’s house. Take a look.

I guess by now, you figured out the moral of the story. Always hire a professional such as Archadeck of Columbus, to ensure a happily ever after every time. Contact us today to get started (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net

A Deck/Patio Combo in Columbus turns out to be just what the Doctor Ordered

Archadeck of Columbus pairs together a deck and patio combination that suits these Columbus, Ohio homeowners to a “T”.

Columbus paver patio deck and landscaping

Here at Archadeck of Columbus, we recently completed a deck for this homeowner in Gahanna which is located in Columbus, Ohio. This customer decided to install a deck and patio combination because they liked the idea of having two different living areas and having adjoining seating areas to enjoy throughout the season.

Patios can be installed in the Columbus area from about March 15^th until the first freeze which is usually around mid-December. The ideal is to wait to begin a patio until March or early April to make sure the ground is not frozen, or in some cases muddy from melting snow or ice.

We constructed the deck using TimberTech XLM in beautiful “river rock” gray and used a cedar rail for a wonderful contrast. We completed the deck prior to the stairs because we wanted to make sure the stairs are all the same height.

Columbus_paver_patio_builder — Design rendering in detail

The upcoming patio will be oval on one corner and the other corner will be a straight rectangle to accommodate a small retaining wall. Due to the excavation that is necessary for the patio’s installation there will be excess soil that needs to be removed. In most cases we can use excavated soil as topsoil to create planting beds or an upgrade at a later date around the perimeter of a structure such as this patio. In the case of this customer, they wanted to add planting beds that they could go ahead and plant in now. This worked out perfectly for this customer. We will also be adding a spading edge to the planting beds and mulch.

umbriano_winter_marvel — Umbriano "Winter marvel"

Archadeck Columbus paver patio architectural Rendering

The patio itself will be finished using Uni-lock Umbriano pavers. These are concrete pavers but are made to look contemporary, the end effect resembles slabs with a larger pattern. This type of paver has been quite popular in the Columbus area. The color these homeowners chose is “winter marvel” for the field area and the soldier course ( perimeter/border) is “midnight sky”. We anticipate this combination will be breathtaking when completed.

The choice to include a patio with the deck area is clearly a design that can be integrated into any landscape whether it is single or multi-level. Having multiple living areas is a growing trend. The two structures harmonize together beautifully.

If you are considering a deck, a patio or both, give Archadeck of Columbus a call and we can meet with you to discuss placement, design and materials. We can give your backyard that same harmony. Give us a ring for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730
or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net.

Archadeck of Columbus and TimberTech Evolutions help pay it forward and get a lot back in return

Archadeck of Columbus donates to re-deck for Recreation Unlimited. A very rewarding experience for all who participated.

It is always a special opportunity when we are asked to give back to the community by helping a charitable organization. We really enjoy paying it forward by assisting our time and materials to help an organization like the one we recently helped on for Recreation Unlimited. Recreation Unlimited is a charity started by Dick Ruff in 1958 to provide recreational activities for people like himself with disabilities. Following the death of Dick Ruff in 1974 many community leaders such as Jimmy Crumm, local sportscaster and well-known face in the community with the local NBC station for many years, took the reins to make sure Dick’s dream would live on. Recreation Unlimited is located near Delaware and provides activities for developmentally and physically disabled individuals and those with health concerns.

Columbus Deck Builder TimberTech — Busy at work on the re-decking for Recreation Unlimited

Paul Huttlin is the director of the Recreation Unlimited facility. The facility had a 25-year-old deck adjacent to Lake Crumm. The deck itself overhangs the lake for fishing at the facility. There is a shelter adjacent to the deck and an open gazebo. The deck encompassed roughly 1,200 square feet. Archadeck of Columbus’ volunteers were in charge of the re-decking. Two crews donated their time and labor to complete this job. Seth Micheal and Josh Kempf both did a phenomenal job on this deck. We also couldn’t have did it without the help of our wonderful guys at TimberTech, Craig Hyatt and Tony Groh. It took us about two days to finish the job and it was a very rewarding experience.

Deck Builder Columbus TimberTech — A few of our wonderful volunteers

We chose to use the incredible TimberTech product called Evolutions. Evolutions is a beautiful composite deck that represents a new age in decking. The Evolutions material has a 25 year no stain and no fade warranty. TimberTech is the first ever to offer this full 25 year warranty on a decking product and we were really excited about using it on this structure. The Evolutions is not as expensive as pure PVC decking boards. It also has a PVC cap that extends around the perimeter of the board. Evolutions comes in many earthwood colors. We chose to use the Pacific Rosewood for this deck and Pacific Walnut and Radiance for the rail. The material has black veining/streaking through it to make it look more exotic, with breathtaking results. We also used hidden fasteners on the new deck to continue that endless vision of beauty without seeing the “stuff that holds it together”.

Anytime we donate our time or materials to help an organization such as this we always come back getting a lot more out of it than we could ever put in it. Having the opportunity to work on a job with this much significance to the community just makes you feel good. It is on a different level than doing jobs on a day-to-day. We encourage everyone to donate their time and whatever they have to a worthy cause such as this and help “pay it forward” in your community it is always an experience you will remember for the rest of your lives.

Columbus TimberTech deck — The completed Evolutions deck: A beautiful deck for a beautiful cause

From Recreation Unlimited…

The Recreation Unlimited deck by the lake is a major focal point for camp activities. The campers fish from the dock, do outdoor arts and crafts by the lake and use the deck for a picnic spot during the summer months. The original deck was very worn and needed repair or replacement. The Timbertech donation of materials was perfect for the type of application needed, a quality surface and maintenance free. If it wasn’t for Mike Reeder and Archadeck, the project would never have been completed. Mike and his crew’s expertise helped a bunch of weekend volunteers construct a beautiful deck in two days in a fantastic location. What a treat for our campers with disabilities and health concerns to use now and many years into the future. Thank you Archadeck and Timbertech.

Best regards!
Paul L. Huttlin
Executive Director and CEO
Recreation Unlimited Foundation
Recreation Unlimited Farm and Fun
7700 Piper Road
Ashley, OH 43003

Pressure Treated Pine – A Maintenance Nightmare?

: Un-maintained Treated Pine Deck

I just returned from visiting a client whom inherited a pressure treated pine deck and was disgusted with its condition. His initial intent was to tear down the entire deck and start over. He truly liked the look of wood and understood maintenance was involved but he didn’t realize that treated pine does have advantages. At the end of our meeting we agreed that removing the entire deck was not necessary and we just replace the flooring and rails. I thought it might be useful to share more information to you about Pressure Treated Pine (PTP).

PTP still remains the #1 choice for outdoor structures. Whether used for decks, screen porches, playground sets, fencing or sandboxes, PTP is the best value for your buck. All PTP comes with a lifetime warranty against rotting (fungal decay) and termite infestation. The characteristics and maintenance of this species are integral to understanding its benefits and imperfections.

The term PTP means the pine when milled is infused with chemicals to provide the warranties discussed above. The wood will essentially not rot and can be placed in the ground. The chemicals used have been changed over the last 7 years. I won’t go into that as it’s quite convoluted. The main point is the warranties provided. The main characteristic about PTP is the susceptibility to changes in temperatures, humidity and overall weather. In a nutshell this species will expand and contract based on climate conditions. Remember the sun is your enemy. The hotter its gets, the more it will expand. Ever notice decks built with PTP where the floor, rail caps or stair treads are cracking? This is a result of the sun. Ever notice how decking boards appear to “cup”. Cupping occurs as the edges of boards are stretching towards the sun in hot weather. A misnomer about cupping, it is not because the grain of the boards were placed incorrectly upon installation. It is simply a result of expansion and contraction.

Another consideration about PTP, the material needs to dry for at least 3-6 months prior to sealing or staining. When first installed, most boards will be damp. This is due to the chemicals within the product. You may notice the top of the deck boards are dry within a week or two, but that does not mean the entire board is dry. Remember vaporizing (drying) goes up through the board. In addition, as it dries the boards tend to shrink leaving gaps between deck boards.

The best advice I can pass on about PTP, is to keep the deck wet in the summer months. This does not mean hosing your deck off daily, but be conscious and apply as needed. Factors such as exposure to the sun (i.e. orientation of your deck to the sun) and shade need to be considered. I would suggest keeping an eye on the floor boards. If they show signs of cracking, hose it down. Once the cracking occurs, you will never be able to reverse that trend. So keep it wet!

Maintenance such as staining, stripping and cleaning are an integral aspect with any wood product exposed to exterior elements. This maintenance, on average, depends on exposure to the sun. Usually I hear people say they have to complete the work once per year. Ever notice how PTP has a light hue to it when a project is first built outside? Look again 3-6 months later (if not stained or painted), it begins to turn grey. This is due to the UV rays from the sun. In order to maintain a PTP product you can apply several methods:

 Semi-transparent Stain

 Opaque Stains

 Transparent Sealers

 Painting

Semi-Transparent Stains have a small amount of stain in them combined with UV protection. Lots of staining products on the market indicate claims and warranties that their particular goods contain UV protection. Of course that doesn’t take into account, normal wear and tear. This includes high traffic areas. The slight amount of stain in these products assists with deterioration. I see the best results with this method.

Opaque Stains are simply a stain that will change the color of the wood. If you really like this look, go for it, but be aware that your high traffic areas will deteriorate quicker. Compare that to low traffic areas where the stain is holding up. Now what do you do?

Transparent Sealers have no stain in them and just provide UV protection. Remember the UV rays are powerful and the decking will begin to turn grey, eventually. This is the easiest of methods as the “stripping” phase is less time consuming.

Painting is a bad idea especially with “horizontal” surfaces. This includes deck flooring, rail caps, bench seats, planters and steps. Paint will begin to chip and deteriorate when exposed to the elements over time. Think about it, where does the water sit? If you want to paint “Vertical” components (i.e. railing posts, pickets, porch posts, that will last longer in most cases.

Here are some recommendations and websites of products we have had good feedback on. The best of these products is Cabot Stain http://www.cabotstain.com More expensive than most yet remember, you get what you pay for! I have seen success with Sherwin-Williams products as well. http://www.sherwin-williams.com Lastly, I must profess, we do not provide staining or painting services as part of our business, but we do recommend an awesome painter if clients inquire.

Does this all mean that PTP is awful? Of course not. Many folks still build with PTP but we want to ensure clients understand how the product will perform. If you like the look of wood, PTP is a decent option, but be aware the maintenance required to maintain the beauty. I hope this helps. Cheers!