Archive for the ‘Build A Deck’ Category
3 Deck Skirting Solutions
April 14th, 2010
Richard Vande Sompel asked:
In the construction of a deck homeowners tend to spend most of their money and energy on the deck framework, decking, railing system and steps. One key vertical element is often neglected – the skirting.
If your deck is high enough that you can see the framing structure, then it would be a wise decision to add skirting for several reasons.
1. The underside of a deck can be distracting and unsightly with its large beams, joists and support posts.
2. The ground surface underneath the deck can become a problem area. Weeds have the ability to grow almost anywhere. Rainwater that seeps through the decking can become standing water in depressions underneath the deck and breed mosquitoes.
3. Small animals such as skunks and racoons might decide to set up residence under the deck because it is so accessible and conveniently close to sources of water and food.
Spreading landscaping fabric over the area under the deck and covering it with a layer of gravel or crushed limestone screenings can eliminate the growth of weeds and the breeding grounds for insects. The planting of shrubs or hedges can be done to hide the deck framework but this will not prevent animals from taking up residence on your property. A well built skirt around the deck perimeter would represent a better alternative.
In some ways the deck skirting may be the most visible deck feature. It can easily become an element that will enhance the look and style of your deck. It could also become a means by which you can create storage space and an access point to the deck underside.
There are a number of styles and material choices available for skirting a deck. However, it is necessary to first create a nailing surface for all parts of the deck skirt (top, bottom and sides). Using 2x4s or 2x2s to create this framework is a practical solution construction wise and money wise. Once the skirt framework is fastened in place the actual skirt material can be installed. Privacy plus lattice is one inexpensive choice. The only drawback with lattice is its lack of strength when it is hit by lawnmowers, soccer balls, etc. In addition an aggressive small animal like a skunk or racoon can find a way to create an entrance opening in lattice.
A better alternative would be 1×6 vertical boards nailed or screwed into place to form a much stronger shield against any form of animal invasion. If the skirting area is higher than normal and a solid skirting of 1x6s would look like the Great Wall of China, another skirting alternative would make better design and style sense. For example, if the skirting was to be 3 feet high then the lower 2 feet might be enclosed with 1×6 vertical boards while the upper foot would be enclosed with privacy plus lattice. This would soften the effect of the 1×6 boards and add an extra bit of drama to the deck.
In order to make all or part of the underside of the deck into a storage area or access point it is simply a matter of creating a hinged access door or panel in the framing of the deck skirt.
Skirting may add additional expense to a deck budget, however it can easily become an accent feature that will greatly improve the overall look of the deck.
In the construction of a deck homeowners tend to spend most of their money and energy on the deck framework, decking, railing system and steps. One key vertical element is often neglected – the skirting.
If your deck is high enough that you can see the framing structure, then it would be a wise decision to add skirting for several reasons.
1. The underside of a deck can be distracting and unsightly with its large beams, joists and support posts.
2. The ground surface underneath the deck can become a problem area. Weeds have the ability to grow almost anywhere. Rainwater that seeps through the decking can become standing water in depressions underneath the deck and breed mosquitoes.
3. Small animals such as skunks and racoons might decide to set up residence under the deck because it is so accessible and conveniently close to sources of water and food.
Spreading landscaping fabric over the area under the deck and covering it with a layer of gravel or crushed limestone screenings can eliminate the growth of weeds and the breeding grounds for insects. The planting of shrubs or hedges can be done to hide the deck framework but this will not prevent animals from taking up residence on your property. A well built skirt around the deck perimeter would represent a better alternative.
In some ways the deck skirting may be the most visible deck feature. It can easily become an element that will enhance the look and style of your deck. It could also become a means by which you can create storage space and an access point to the deck underside.
There are a number of styles and material choices available for skirting a deck. However, it is necessary to first create a nailing surface for all parts of the deck skirt (top, bottom and sides). Using 2x4s or 2x2s to create this framework is a practical solution construction wise and money wise. Once the skirt framework is fastened in place the actual skirt material can be installed. Privacy plus lattice is one inexpensive choice. The only drawback with lattice is its lack of strength when it is hit by lawnmowers, soccer balls, etc. In addition an aggressive small animal like a skunk or racoon can find a way to create an entrance opening in lattice.
A better alternative would be 1×6 vertical boards nailed or screwed into place to form a much stronger shield against any form of animal invasion. If the skirting area is higher than normal and a solid skirting of 1x6s would look like the Great Wall of China, another skirting alternative would make better design and style sense. For example, if the skirting was to be 3 feet high then the lower 2 feet might be enclosed with 1×6 vertical boards while the upper foot would be enclosed with privacy plus lattice. This would soften the effect of the 1×6 boards and add an extra bit of drama to the deck.
In order to make all or part of the underside of the deck into a storage area or access point it is simply a matter of creating a hinged access door or panel in the framing of the deck skirt.
Skirting may add additional expense to a deck budget, however it can easily become an accent feature that will greatly improve the overall look of the deck.
Posted in Build A Deck | 
Tags: Depressions, Practical Solution, Racoons, Sources Of Water, Support Posts
A Long Lasting Deck Will Increase your Home’s Value
April 14th, 2010
Scott Baxter asked:
In a warm climate like Arizona’s, building usable outdoor living space is one of the simplest ways to add value to your home and enjoyment to your life. Imagine hosting parties on your back deck. Add a barbeque and cooler and the experience is complete. A deck can easily be added to almost any backyard.
If you are considering a deck, but want something that will require less maintenance than wood, consider composite decking. Usually made from a mixture of recycled wood and plastic resin, composite decking is UV resistant, fade-proof and durable. It has the warm look of wood, but doesn’t need sanding or staining every year. Further, the planks can be seamless, cut to your exact desired length. Most composite decking companies offer railings in colors and styles that match, or accentuate, your choice of decking.
The nice thing about this choice in decking material is its long life. When selling your home, something that will require constant maintenance from the new owner will be a turn-off. But a low-maintenance back-yard deck, that will remain low-maintenance for many years to come, can become your homes main selling feature.
Here’s another idea: if your deck is south or south-west facing, it may be quite hot and bright in the afternoon sun. While everyone loves a good dose of sunshine, you might consider shading a portion of your deck. Fast-growing vines like Wisteria can be purchased at most garden centers. A young Wisteria vine, planted in the ground right beside your new deck, can be over eight feet tall within three years or less. If you’ve got a nice arbor for it to grow along, you can control where you want shade. Wisteria grows beautiful light purple flowers in the early spring, and develops long-seed pods later in summer. However, if you have limited space, the fast growing Wisteria might not be for you.
If space and is limited, consider the more delicate Clematis, or perhaps Passion Flower. You may get less shade from the more delicate leaves, but they won’t grow as fast or as high as Wisteria. Grape is another vine idea, and can be easily pruned back each year to maintain a consistent size—but this may just be creating unnecessary work. Consider your needs, perhaps ask for advice at your favorite garden center, and you’ll find the right shade-giving vine for your situation.
Ponds are another attractive feature on or beside a deck. Most garden stores carry simple pond supplies. Buy a pump with a filter embedded into it, to reduce any labor on your part. These can create a pleasant spray, while keeping your pond clean. Flowering plants add the piece de resistance.
But you don’t need to get carried away on deck accessories. A simple, attractive deck is enough in itself to attract a buyer who enjoys the odd back-yard barbeque. In the meantime, it’s all your to enjoy.
In a warm climate like Arizona’s, building usable outdoor living space is one of the simplest ways to add value to your home and enjoyment to your life. Imagine hosting parties on your back deck. Add a barbeque and cooler and the experience is complete. A deck can easily be added to almost any backyard.
If you are considering a deck, but want something that will require less maintenance than wood, consider composite decking. Usually made from a mixture of recycled wood and plastic resin, composite decking is UV resistant, fade-proof and durable. It has the warm look of wood, but doesn’t need sanding or staining every year. Further, the planks can be seamless, cut to your exact desired length. Most composite decking companies offer railings in colors and styles that match, or accentuate, your choice of decking.
The nice thing about this choice in decking material is its long life. When selling your home, something that will require constant maintenance from the new owner will be a turn-off. But a low-maintenance back-yard deck, that will remain low-maintenance for many years to come, can become your homes main selling feature.
Here’s another idea: if your deck is south or south-west facing, it may be quite hot and bright in the afternoon sun. While everyone loves a good dose of sunshine, you might consider shading a portion of your deck. Fast-growing vines like Wisteria can be purchased at most garden centers. A young Wisteria vine, planted in the ground right beside your new deck, can be over eight feet tall within three years or less. If you’ve got a nice arbor for it to grow along, you can control where you want shade. Wisteria grows beautiful light purple flowers in the early spring, and develops long-seed pods later in summer. However, if you have limited space, the fast growing Wisteria might not be for you.
If space and is limited, consider the more delicate Clematis, or perhaps Passion Flower. You may get less shade from the more delicate leaves, but they won’t grow as fast or as high as Wisteria. Grape is another vine idea, and can be easily pruned back each year to maintain a consistent size—but this may just be creating unnecessary work. Consider your needs, perhaps ask for advice at your favorite garden center, and you’ll find the right shade-giving vine for your situation.
Ponds are another attractive feature on or beside a deck. Most garden stores carry simple pond supplies. Buy a pump with a filter embedded into it, to reduce any labor on your part. These can create a pleasant spray, while keeping your pond clean. Flowering plants add the piece de resistance.
But you don’t need to get carried away on deck accessories. A simple, attractive deck is enough in itself to attract a buyer who enjoys the odd back-yard barbeque. In the meantime, it’s all your to enjoy.