Useful Deck Information

Not all that long ago, “cheap” was the key word used throughout the Kansas City deck industry.  Starting in the fall of 2008 through almost the end of 2009, “cheap” decks, screened porches and pergolas reigned supreme.  Most customers calling deck builders for estimates emphasized one thing.  The primary factor when considering their quote was going to be how much the deck would cost.  Many new and un-established Kansas City deck contractors built their marketing campaign on a single premise.  They boasted the fact they could, and would, build a deck “cheaper” than the next guy.  Thankfully, that trend is now beginning to come full circle.

Yeah, there are still quite a few tire kickers out there.  However, as a Kansas City deck builder, we’re noticing more and more people looking for the best value versus the lowest price.  There is a difference!  Value simply means getting the most for what you are paying.  It could be the most expensive deck or it may be the most affordable.  That all depends on the detail of craftsmanship, quality of materials, level of service and professionalism provided; compared to what one spends for it.  What someone is willing to allot for such a purchase is their decision based on their personal taste, lifestyle, budget, income, etc.  Price is only a single component of value and should only be used as a gauge to calculate the deck’s value.

As a Kansas City deck builder, this is something we’ve always preached.  We don’t pretend to be the cheapest deck builder in Kansas City.  We proclaim to provide the best value.  “The highest quality deck for the fairest price” – “The most bang for your buck”…you get the picture.

Some of those “cheap” deck builders are not only now realizing the true cost to run a business.  They’re also realizing that the “cheapest” deck is usually the one built exactly right the first time and in an efficient manner.  Whereas, the most expensive deck is the one their unqualified subcontractor took three times as long to build or the one they have to go back and fix time and time again.  Fortunately for the reputable, qualified deck builders in Kansas City, many consumers are also now gravitating toward that same conclusion.

As I humbly predicted, more and more horror stories about unscrupulous contractors and shady handymen are emerging from the dark, murky depths of this historic recession.  Although immensely distasteful, these unfortunate business practices do produce something positive.  A much more conscientious and savvy consumer is now being born in all markets throughout the United States.  Kansas City decks are no exception. 

Many homeowners are now realizing what has been preached since the beginning of mankind.  “You get what you pay for!”  If you don’t believe it, just try walking into your local Cadillac dealership and ask them if they can match the price of a Kia model that’s relative in size.  They’d laugh and probably so would you.  That’s because you both know the two cars aren’t built the same.  The craftsmanship is miles apart and there are many more high-end components and features on a Cadillac than on a Kia.  Well, decks are no different.

There’s a vast difference in Kansas City decks, and therefore, deck builders.  The construction methods they utilize, their attention to detail, skill level of their carpenters and quality of materials they work with.  So do your diligent research.  Check their credentials, call their references and be sure to visit their work first hand.  Because “cheap” is not always an accolade!

Here’s my favorite quote from one from one of the greatest social thinkers Great Britain and the world has ever known.  One I try and repeat it every chance I get:

“There is hardly anything in the world that some men cannot make a little worse and sell a little cheaper; and the people who consider price only, are such men’s lawful prey.”  – John Ruskin

Hope this helps,

Dan Milford (DW Elite Decks – Kansas City deck builder)

I know it sounds awfully repetitive because it seems like I post something like this at least once a month.  However, I think it’s one of the more important points I can relay to homeowners and deck builders alike.  Decks have always been and still are one of the more secure investments when it comes to residential home improvement projects.

More proof comes from a U.S. News & World Report which lists the “The 5 Best—and 5 Worst—Home Improvement Projects for Your Money.”  The article explains that a wood deck is the third best home project to spend your money on.  It does a better job articulating the reasons than I do, so the link you just passed will take you there.  The report doesn’t rate PVC or composite decks.  Nor does it mention treated or tropical hardwood decks.  However, I guarantee that just about any type of deck, if properly constructed and of quality craftsmanship, will meet, if not exceed, this type of performance.  Especially if the deck is  made from a reputable composite brand such as Evergrain or a top notch material like Azek or a gorgeous, durable product similar to an Ipe tropical hardwood.

Just remember to do your research.  Find a decking that flows with your home and is ideal for your regional environment.  And as always, hire a reputable, professional deck builder.  One who’s built with that exact material more than once.  Trust me, not all deck products are installed the same.  Incorrect installation is not only wearisome and extremely costly; it may even void your warranty.  And what’s the point in that?

For more proof why decks are a sound investment, I’ve attached some of my previous posts:

• Looming Inflation Guarantees a Deck Investment
• Purchase a Deck in a Down Economy?
• A Kansas City Deck is a Wise Investment

Hope this helps,

Dan Milford (DW Elite Decks – Kansas City deck builder)

Professional deck builders see a wide variety of potential customers.  Some desire an intricate design combined with ornate accessories and features which coincide with the architecture of their home.  Yet others just need a basic layout constructed with simple, durable and low maintenance materials.  And there is an infinite range of desires within this spectrum.  No matter what the deck purchaser requests, there’s always a common thread.  Everyone wishes to achieve functionality while obtaining the most deck for their money.  Therefore, here are a few tips to utilize that valued deck space to its fullest.

Know your numbers.  Lumber, composite, PVC, and just about all building materials are sold in even increments.  A deck builder can usually obtain even numbered dimensional lumber from eight to twenty foot lengths without special ordering.  Composite and PVC deck products are more explicitly produced.  Synthetic decking is usually manufactured in twelve, sixteen, and twenty foot sections while railing components are generally offered in twelve and sixteen foot increments.  What this means for the deck builder and buyer alike is paying for the shortest possible lengths to fit their deck dimensions.  Planning your deck design around the material availability can save both deck builders and homeowners a substantial amount of money.  It can also help create a more practical deck space.

Visualize the deck’s footprint and how it will be utilized.  Decide where to place tables, chairs, a BBQ grill, planters, etc.  This helps ensure you don’t have any major regrets about the deck’s size or configuration. 

Keep stairs towards the corners of the deck.  Stairs in the middle of a side withhold usable room in order to preserve trouble-free entries and exits.  They also break up guard rails and add extra railing posts.  Don’t just consider the cost of materials.  Experienced deck builders are sensible enough to figure in their labor for such additional work.  Also, keep staircases close and adjacent to the deck frame.  Longer staircases may require descents to turn a corner or switch back with a split level landing.  This concept not only saves valuable yard realty, it’s much safer in case of an inescapable fall.

These are just a handful of suggestions to assist deck builders and homeowners with deck conception.  No matter what the objective for a deck, screened porch, pergola or other construction project, thorough planning is sure to enhance the outcome and the tweak the aim.  Similar to much of life, diligent preparation is the key to success in quality deck building.

Hope this helps,

Dan Milford (DW Elite Decks – Kansas City deck builder)

One of the most important aspects of building a quality deck is proper land grading.  The earth below and around a deck must provide proper water runoff and drainage.  I’ve seen first hand how many Kansas City deck builders fail to do this part of their job.  All one has to do is drive by a newly completed deck and see the piles of dirt mounded up into little hills around each deck pier.  The neglected landscape not only looks bad, but it can be disastrous for the homeowner.

If rainwater fails to divert away from a house’s foundation, the possibility of a flooding basement is probable, if not imminent.  Therefore, a ground swale should always be higher near the footing or foundation of a building and descend gradually away from and toward on open area.  The same reason gutters are installed around the perimeter of a roof.  To get water away from a structure before it comes inside.  It’s especially crucial for this excavation to be performed on low decks before they are built.  Afterwards, such work may not be feasible.  Remember, the deck is not going to divert all the rain by itself.  Much of it will pass to the ground below.

Another area many Kansas City deck builders ignore is around the deck support posts and stairs.  Some deck builders and contractors simply leave dirt from the hole right where they dropped it.  I’m not sure if they just think will dissipate naturally into the ground, believe it’s the homeowner’s responsibility, are just too lazy or don’t even care.  Nonetheless, this practice totally contradicts quality deck building.

Cedar, and even some treated, posts should not come in contact with dirt or masonry.  Doing so will shorten the life of the wood.  Most treated woods are resistant to rot and decay from moisture.  However, abstinence from such exposure will help almost any material last much longer.  Therefore, dirt from piers should be spread out thinly so it does not to come in contact with posts, stairs, or any deck component.

To recap, simply slope all dirt and landscaping away from foundations, footings, piers, and deck components.  Yes, it’s really that simple.  Just a little knowledge and a bit more effort can help some of you Kansas City deck builders become a little better.  Take another step towards higher quality deck building.  After all, that’s really what matters, isn’t it?

Hope this helps,

Dan Milford (DW Elite Decks – Kansas City deck builder)

Well, the local Azek rep stopped by our Southern Johnson County, Kansas deck showroom the other day.  He didn’t come empty handed either.  He brought with him a crucial piece Azek needed to make their product even more marketable for us Kansas City deck builders.  A much anticipated color line which includes a wider variety of colors and darker color selections.

I’ve posted about the new Azek colors expected to hit the deck market a couple times over the last year.  Azek has delivered it right on schedule and fulfilled exactly what today’s deck consumer craves, a darker and richer color selection.  There’s no doubt that Azek’s cellular PVC technology has always been a high quality decking product.  It’s proven to be very durable, extremely stain resistant and guaranteed not to rot.  However, one of the decking line’s major weaknesses has been its color selection. 

Before last year, there were only four Azek colors for us deck builders to sell.  The colors were okay, but they were all fairly timid in tone.  None met the high demand for a deep, dark, rich pigmentation most deck Kansas City deck customers demand.  Sometime last early October, the Kansas City deck builders and contractors were presented with the Kona and Fawn colors.  I reported my thoughts about those colors previously. 

See: Azek introduces new colors to Kansas City deck builders.

Now Azek gives us Sedona, Redland Rose, Morado, Acacia, and Tahoe.  My opinion on these five new colors is very strong.  I’m not going to gab on and on in detail about each color and what each one means to me.  Instead, I’m going to give Azek the strongest compliment a deck builder can give a decking manufacturer.  “Thank You!”

Here they are for all you deck builders, contractors and potential deck customers to see.

 Click  here for the Complete Azek Decking Color Line.

Hope this helps,

Dan Milford (DW Elite decks – Kansas City deck builder)

Bamboo decking manufacturers are emerging in every corner of the deck industry.  That’s for good reason.  Not only is the deck product very resilient, it’s also genuinely striking while containing quality attributes.

This unique indoor and outdoor decking is made from one hundred percent, all natural, compressed bamboo fiber.  Growing faster than any other wood product, bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource which bodes great for the environment. Bamboo is a grass that is harvested.  The manufacturing process makes it ready to for use on residential and commercial decks within three to five years.  The fluctuation is dependent on the maturity of the grass’ interior structural fibers.  Bamboo’s density, durability and strength features are comparable to Brazilian Ipe, Cumaru and other tropical hardwoods. 

That also means a quality bamboo deck brand is tougher and will last longer than the more commonly used cedar, redwood, and treated southern yellow pine.  Its deep natural wood tones are also more commonly preferred by high-end custom deck builders, architects, designers and consumers.

All bamboo decking manufacturers I’ve come across claim their decking to be fire proof and insect resistant.  They also testify the decking has been progressively weather tested in accelerated climate conditions. 

Being closely priced to tropical hardwood decks and even more eco friendly, I think it’d be safe to say there will be a place for bamboo in the deck market.  Our company has never used any type of bamboo in construction of a deck, pergola, screened porch or other project.  However, since we consider ourselves the leader among Kansas City deck builders, I can assure you it’s a product we’ll be further researching.

Hope this helps,

Dan Milford (DW Elite Decks – Kansas City deck builder)

As many Kansas City deck builders know well, his time of year always brings surging inquisition from customers about small cracks appearing in their wood decking components.  Most people are initially very concerned about this natural process often found in wood called “checking.”  That is until we explain what checking is, why it occurs, what can be done to slow it down and how to help conceal its effects, if so desired.

As I said earlier, we field many more calls about checking on our wood decks and components during the fall and winter months.  The reason is very simple.  It’s directly related to the sudden drop in temperature, and in turn, the drastically decreasing humidity levels in the atmoshphere.  It’s the same reason you need to crank up the humidifier in your home as the weather gets cooler.  If not, your skin is also more likely to get cracked, itchy and irritated due to the surrounding air sucking the water right out of your body.

Make no mistake, I’m just a professional deck builder in Kansas City.  That’s about as far from a doctor, biologist or scientist as you can get.  Nonetheless, I’ll give you what I know about checking, why it happens, and how to combat the wood’s natural process.  My experience is with lumber used in deck duilding.  However, much of will overlap just about any application pertaining to wood.

“What is “Checking?”

As wood begins to dry out, it usually develops natural cracks called “checks.”  Checking happens as moisture is released from the wood’s outer rings at a faster rate than its inner rings.   

“A check is a naturally occurring lengthwise separation between wood fibers parallel to the grain.”

- © 1997 The APA – The Engineered Wood Association –

Checking, the separation of continuous wood fibers, is a naturally occurring consequence of the seasoning process of wood. The outer fibers lose moisture to the surrounding atmosphere and attempt to shrink, but the inner portion of the timber member loses moisture at a much slower rate. The different rates of shrinkage can cause the wood to check or split. Rapid drying increases the differential moisture content between the inner and outer fibers and thus increases the propensity for checking in the timber. The checking (and shrinkage) process will stabilize as the moisture content of the member reaches equilibrium with the surrounding environmental conditions.” 

- © 2009 APA – The Engineered Wood Association -

“Why does it occur?”

Checking is more prominent in larger timbers and less porous woods.  Larger timbers and dense woods are prominent in the construction of decks in Kansas City and many regions throughout the United States.  Both of these characteristics delay the rate at which wood’s core moisture evaporates compared to its outer shell.  While larger sizes and denser woods are more prone to check, this natural phenomenon can appear in almost any dimension or species of wood.  

The amount of checking greatly depends on how fast the wood dries out.  Kansas City’s extreme variance in temperatures creates an ideal environment to produce wood checking.  No matter what the climate conditions or surrounding air temperature, checking can and probably will show up at some point. 

Below are some pictures of profound checking which popped up on the pergola in our back showroom.  Keep in mind, this in Western Red Cedar.  Cedar is not only very porous but is also widely recognized as one of the more stable wood species.  Nonetheless, substantial checking still happened.  Not to mention, this display was built and has always been kept indoors with a temperature variance of never more than five degrees Fahrenheit.

Many homeowners and novice deck builders erroneously misinterpret wood checking as the beginning of wood deterioration.  The truth is, checking has no affect on the structure, strength, or durability of wood.  Checking rarely penetrates further than the heart or center of a log, timber, or board. 

As a matter of fact, many top designers, architects, and deck builders request wood containing checks for a more natural look. 

“What can be done to prevent it?”

There is no cure or way or absolute way to prevent checking.  It can be slowed by staining, sealing or painting the wood.  This will help retain moisture in the outer layers longer.  Thus allowing the wood to dry more evenly throughout, and therefore, separate less. 

If checking seems unsightly, you can fill the gapping with an elastomeric caulk or epoxy.  When filling wood which is kept outdoors, it is recommended to follow with paint, lacquer, or poly urethane.  This will help prevent separation of the filler from wood after more exposure to the elements. 

Fore more info on “Wood Checking,” visit the following links:

http://www.apawood.org/glu_level_b.cfm?content=prd_glu_gen_check

http://www.wvu.edu/~exten/infores/pubs/other/wooddr2.pdf

http://northernloghome.com/checking.htm

Hope this helps,

Dan Milford (DW Elite Decks – Kansas City deck builder)

On Tuesday, October 20th, Principia Partners publishing department released their predictions for the deck industry in 2010. Principia Partners is a strategy consulting firm for companies in material related industries.  They estimate that decking and deck related sales will rise from $2.8 billion in 2009 to $3.1 billion in 2010.  This is obviously great news for us Kansas City deck builders and deck related companies throughout the country.

PVC and composite decks have steadily risen in demand since their inception.  However, wood decks gained back substantial ground in 2009.  This was due mainly to the combination of falling wood prices along with the increase in cost of petroleum based products.  The impact of our deep recession has also forced customers to choose deck products which are easier on the pocketbook.  Principia is predicting the trend to shift back in favor of PVC and composite decking as wood prices begin to recover.

Cautiously optimistic, Principia hopes that a greater ability to tap into home equity to finance home improvement projects along with more confidence in consumer spending will result in substantially more deck sales.  “The increase in housing starts and modest growth in repair and remodel activity will increase the demand for decking and railing,”   Principia said.

There will be about 2.5 million decks built on residential homes this year.  Principia says we should expect about a 6% increase in deck sales.  That’s about 150,000 more decks next year.  As a Kansas City deck builder, I sure hope they’re right on target with this forecast.  And I’m sure my fellow deck builders, retailers, and wholesalers are crossing their fingers that these numbers come to fruition.  Because like many industries throughout the United States, the American deck industry could sure use a banner year in 2010!

For more info on this report, here’s a link to Principia Partners.

Hope this helps,

Dan Milford (DW Elite Decks – Kansas City deck builder)

As I’ve posted before, we’re a huge proponent of FastenMaster’s Cortex hidden fastening system.  It retains the simple engineering principle of keeping two face screws per board per joist.  Many Kansas City deck builders use other methods of concealing their screws.  However, most structural experts will agree that the Cortex system provides a much more stable deck than any hidden clip or tongue and groove method.

Earlier in the year, I spoke highly on how well Cortex’s core and plug operation worked for AZEK Deck®.  I was amazed at both the ease of installation as well as the consistency of its appearance and performance.  However, when I heard FastenMaster had created one for EverGrain Classic Colors*®, I was somewhat skeptical. 

As a professional Kansas City deck builder, our company installs more EverGrain decking than any other product.  Therefore, we know its characteristics very well.  I love the value EverGrain delivers.  It’s both low cost and durable as well as not harboring mold and mildew.  Sorry for the digression.

The main reason for my skepticism was the raised dense grain pattern pressed into EverGrain’s surface.  I didn’t picture those plugs being very easy to install or blending in very well with such a pronounced and defined texture.  Then the EverGrain rep showed me a demo that quickly forced me to swallow my presumptions.  The plugs were easily set even with the raised parts of the surface and simply conformed to and became part of the texture.  I guess that’s why I’m a deck builder and not in the manufacturing business.  I was both surprised and impressed.

If you’re a deck builder or consumer who prefers using another type of decking, FastenMaster has also extended the Cortex line to other brands.  It is now available for Trex® Accents and Escapes and TimberTech® TwinFinish Decking.  They’ve also come out with the new Azek Kona and Fawn colors.

For more info, here’s a link to FastenMaster’s Cortex Fastening System

Hope this helps,

Dan Milford (DW Elite Decks – Kansas City deck builder)

About a month ago, I posted how Azek was ready to show off their new darker decking colors to the deck builders in Kansas City.  Well, I missed the introduction due to family obligations.  However, my partner was able to attend and grabbed a couple of samples so I could relay my opinions on this blog.

One of the new colors is called Fawn.  Fawn is a deep dark tan or milky brown.  Actually, the name is very fitting because it’s exactly what color you’d think a young deer to be.  I’m not a huge fan of any light brown and cedar color decking.  No matter what brand it is.  That’s not so much a knock on the colors the manufacturers created as it is my personal taste.  I wouldn’t put the Fawn Azek on my deck either.  However, I think it’s a more attractive tint than most of the other decking colors close to the same shade.  I also think it will definitely have a stable spot amongst deck consumers since it’ bold enough to be different while still remaining fairly natural and neutral.  Not bad.

The other color has been named Kona.  I’d say it could best be described as cocoa or dark chocolate.  It is right in line with what I thought Azek was going to have to put out in order to compete.  Timbertech and Gossen have developed some creative and sharp decking colors.  Darker colors are definitely the trendy choice with many deck consumers in Kansas City and around the country.  Fawn is sure to gobble up its fair share of those purchases.  It probably already is. 

When it comes to the darker deck colors, deck builders should inform their customers about hot temperature surface.  Some of the dark composite decks can actually feel unbearable when exposed to bare feet.  I guess that depends on how tough you and your feet are. 

Personally, mine aren’t nearly as callused and leathery as when I was a kid.  I use to spend all day playing outside with my dogs unprotected.  Not so much today. 

Cellular PVC, like Azek and Gossen, have an advantage.  The technology of PVC restricts much less temperature change than composites.  That can make a big difference with small children.  Especially in direct sunlight and in the middle of summer.

Helpful links:

Azek decking

Gossen decking

Timbertech decking

Evergrain decking

Hope this helps,

Dan Milford (DW Elite Decks – Kansas City deck builder)