KITES BLOG / NEWS
7 Deck-Building Mistakes to Avoid This Summer
As the warm embrace of summer beckons you outdoors, the allure of a brand-new deck can be irresistible. Whether you envision lazy afternoons with a book, lively weekend barbecues, or evenings spent under the stars, a deck is a perfect venue for enjoying the outdoors from the comfort of your home. However, embarking on a deck-building project isn’t without its pitfalls. A poorly planned or executed deck can lead to a plethora of problems, ranging from budget blowouts to structural issues that could compromise safety. To ensure your dream deck doesn’t turn into a nightmare, it’s crucial to steer clear of common mistakes that many homeowners make. In this blog, we’ll guide you through seven critical deck-building errors to avoid this summer, helping you to save time, money, and a lot of hassle. Get ready to turn your deck into the highlight of your home, perfectly primed for the sunny days ahead!
7 Deck-Building Mistakes to Avoid This Summer
As the warm embrace of summer beckons you outdoors, the allure of a brand-new deck can be irresistible. Whether you envision lazy afternoons with a book, lively weekend barbecues, or evenings spent under the stars, a deck is a perfect venue for enjoying the outdoors from the comfort of your home. However, embarking on a deck-building project isn’t without its pitfalls. A poorly planned or executed deck can lead to a plethora of problems, ranging from budget blowouts to structural issues that could compromise safety. To ensure your dream deck doesn’t turn into a nightmare, it’s crucial to steer clear of common mistakes that many homeowners make. In this blog, we’ll guide you through seven critical deck-building errors to avoid this summer, helping you to save time, money, and a lot of hassle. Get ready to turn your deck into the highlight of your home, perfectly primed for the sunny days ahead!
1. Make Sure its up to code
When embarking on a deck-building project in Alberta, one of the most crucial steps is ensuring that your deck adheres to the Alberta Building Code. This isn’t just about compliance; it’s about safety, durability, and legalities. The building code covers everything from the depth of your footings to the height and strength of your railings. Failing to meet these standards can lead to costly fines, delays, and even the need to rebuild parts—or all—of your deck. Before you drive the first nail or cut the first board, consult with your local building authority to obtain the necessary permits and a full understanding of what the Alberta Building Code requires for decks. This preliminary step will save you from potential headaches and ensure that your deck is safe and enjoyable for years to come.
2. Base Selection
Selecting the right foundation for your deck is just as important as the design and materials you choose. The base of your deck not only supports the entire structure but also determines its longevity and stability. Depending on your location, soil type, and climate, the foundation options may vary. For instance, concrete piers going deep into the ground are a popular choice in areas with freeze-thaw cycles, as they help prevent the deck from shifting with seasonal soil changes. Another option might be ground-level pads for decks that don’t require steps and where the ground is stable. It’s essential to assess the terrain and environmental factors of your property to decide on the best type of foundation. A well-chosen base ensures your deck remains firm, level, and functional for many years, making it a crucial step not to overlook in the deck-building process.
3. Expansion & Contraction
Allowing room for expansion and contraction is a critical aspect of deck construction that often goes overlooked, yet it is essential for maintaining the longevity and appearance of your deck. As temperatures fluctuate, deck materials, particularly those made of wood and composite, naturally expand and contract. Without sufficient space between the boards and around the perimeter of the deck, these movements can lead to buckling, warping, or cracking. To prevent such issues, it is vital to space the decking boards appropriately—usually about 1/8 to 1/4 inch apart—depending on the type of material used and the climate conditions in your area. Additionally, ensure there is adequate clearance between the deck structure and any permanent fixtures or walls. This attention to detail will not only enhance the deck’s structural integrity but also its aesthetic appeal, ensuring that it remains functional and attractive through varying weather conditions.
4. right time to stain
Waiting before staining your new deck is essential for optimal results. Newly constructed decks, especially those made with pressure-treated wood, often contain moisture that needs to evaporate before applying any stain or sealant. This acclimation period allows the wood to release trapped moisture and adjust to the external environment, typically requiring several weeks to a few months, depending on the climate and wood type. To check if your deck is ready for staining, perform a simple water test: sprinkle a few drops on the surface, and if the water soaks in rather than beads up, the wood is ready to be stained. This patience ensures that the stain adheres properly and penetrates deeply, enhancing the deck’s aesthetic appeal and durability by providing robust protection against weathering and wear.
5. using appropriate fasteners
Choosing the right fasteners is crucial for ensuring the durability and safety of your deck. Whether you opt for nails, screws, or hidden clips, it’s important to select materials that are compatible with your decking material and local environmental conditions. For instance, stainless steel or coated fasteners are ideal for pressure-treated wood or areas prone to moisture and corrosion. Incorrect fasteners can lead to rapid deterioration and potential structural failures due to rust or chemical reactions with treated lumber. Screws typically offer a more secure and lasting hold than nails, as they are less likely to loosen over time with the wood’s natural expansion and contraction. Investing in the correct, high-quality fasteners will help maintain the integrity and appearance of your deck over the years.
6. incorrect spacing
Incorrectly spacing deck joists is a common yet significant error that can compromise the structural integrity and longevity of your deck. Joists are the horizontal supporting structures that run beneath the decking boards, and their correct spacing is crucial for creating a stable, durable deck surface. If the joists are spaced too far apart, the decking boards may sag or bounce, creating a potentially unsafe surface prone to premature wear and tear. On the other hand, joists that are too close together can be an unnecessary expense and may complicate the installation process.
The appropriate spacing of deck joists depends primarily on the type and thickness of the decking material used. For example, composite decking materials might require closer joist spacing compared to more robust materials like certain types of wood. Typically, joists are spaced 16 inches on center for standard straight decking installations, but spacings of 12 inches may be necessary for diagonally laid or heavier boards. Always refer to the decking material’s installation guidelines and local building codes to determine the correct spacing. Properly spacing your deck joists ensures a safer, more durable deck that maintains its appearance and structural integrity over time.
7. Improper installation
Improper installation of a deck can lead to a variety of significant problems, ranging from minor inconveniences to major safety hazards. Mistakes in the installation process, such as uneven spacing between boards, incorrect fastening techniques, or inadequate structural support, can compromise both the functionality and longevity of the deck. For example, failing to properly secure deck posts or not using enough support beams can lead to an unstable deck that sways or sags. Similarly, incorrect fastener placement or using the wrong type of fasteners can weaken the deck’s structure, making it susceptible to damage from weather conditions or daily use.
Moreover, improper installation can also result in non-compliance with local building codes, which might necessitate costly repairs or even complete reconstruction to meet safety standards. This is why it’s crucial to either thoroughly understand decking construction principles or to hire a professional with the right expertise and credentials. Ensuring that every part of the deck—from the foundation to the railing—is properly installed not only enhances its safety and aesthetic appeal but also extends its service life, providing lasting value and enjoyment.
1. Make Sure its up to code
When embarking on a deck-building project in Alberta, one of the most crucial steps is ensuring that your deck adheres to the Alberta Building Code. This isn’t just about compliance; it’s about safety, durability, and legalities. The building code covers everything from the depth of your footings to the height and strength of your railings. Failing to meet these standards can lead to costly fines, delays, and even the need to rebuild parts—or all—of your deck. Before you drive the first nail or cut the first board, consult with your local building authority to obtain the necessary permits and a full understanding of what the Alberta Building Code requires for decks. This preliminary step will save you from potential headaches and ensure that your deck is safe and enjoyable for years to come.
2. Base Selection
Selecting the right foundation for your deck is just as important as the design and materials you choose. The base of your deck not only supports the entire structure but also determines its longevity and stability. Depending on your location, soil type, and climate, the foundation options may vary. For instance, concrete piers going deep into the ground are a popular choice in areas with freeze-thaw cycles, as they help prevent the deck from shifting with seasonal soil changes. Another option might be ground-level pads for decks that don’t require steps and where the ground is stable. It’s essential to assess the terrain and environmental factors of your property to decide on the best type of foundation. A well-chosen base ensures your deck remains firm, level, and functional for many years, making it a crucial step not to overlook in the deck-building process.
3. Expansion & Contraction
Allowing room for expansion and contraction is a critical aspect of deck construction that often goes overlooked, yet it is essential for maintaining the longevity and appearance of your deck. As temperatures fluctuate, deck materials, particularly those made of wood and composite, naturally expand and contract. Without sufficient space between the boards and around the perimeter of the deck, these movements can lead to buckling, warping, or cracking. To prevent such issues, it is vital to space the decking boards appropriately—usually about 1/8 to 1/4 inch apart—depending on the type of material used and the climate conditions in your area. Additionally, ensure there is adequate clearance between the deck structure and any permanent fixtures or walls. This attention to detail will not only enhance the deck’s structural integrity but also its aesthetic appeal, ensuring that it remains functional and attractive through varying weather conditions.
4. right time to stain
Waiting before staining your new deck is essential for optimal results. Newly constructed decks, especially those made with pressure-treated wood, often contain moisture that needs to evaporate before applying any stain or sealant. This acclimation period allows the wood to release trapped moisture and adjust to the external environment, typically requiring several weeks to a few months, depending on the climate and wood type. To check if your deck is ready for staining, perform a simple water test: sprinkle a few drops on the surface, and if the water soaks in rather than beads up, the wood is ready to be stained. This patience ensures that the stain adheres properly and penetrates deeply, enhancing the deck’s aesthetic appeal and durability by providing robust protection against weathering and wear.
5. using appropriate fasteners
Choosing the right fasteners is crucial for ensuring the durability and safety of your deck. Whether you opt for nails, screws, or hidden clips, it’s important to select materials that are compatible with your decking material and local environmental conditions. For instance, stainless steel or coated fasteners are ideal for pressure-treated wood or areas prone to moisture and corrosion. Incorrect fasteners can lead to rapid deterioration and potential structural failures due to rust or chemical reactions with treated lumber. Screws typically offer a more secure and lasting hold than nails, as they are less likely to loosen over time with the wood’s natural expansion and contraction. Investing in the correct, high-quality fasteners will help maintain the integrity and appearance of your deck over the years.
6. incorrect spacing
Incorrectly spacing deck joists is a common yet significant error that can compromise the structural integrity and longevity of your deck. Joists are the horizontal supporting structures that run beneath the decking boards, and their correct spacing is crucial for creating a stable, durable deck surface. If the joists are spaced too far apart, the decking boards may sag or bounce, creating a potentially unsafe surface prone to premature wear and tear. On the other hand, joists that are too close together can be an unnecessary expense and may complicate the installation process.
The appropriate spacing of deck joists depends primarily on the type and thickness of the decking material used. For example, composite decking materials might require closer joist spacing compared to more robust materials like certain types of wood. Typically, joists are spaced 16 inches on center for standard straight decking installations, but spacings of 12 inches may be necessary for diagonally laid or heavier boards. Always refer to the decking material’s installation guidelines and local building codes to determine the correct spacing. Properly spacing your deck joists ensures a safer, more durable deck that maintains its appearance and structural integrity over time.
7. Improper installation
Improper installation of a deck can lead to a variety of significant problems, ranging from minor inconveniences to major safety hazards. Mistakes in the installation process, such as uneven spacing between boards, incorrect fastening techniques, or inadequate structural support, can compromise both the functionality and longevity of the deck. For example, failing to properly secure deck posts or not using enough support beams can lead to an unstable deck that sways or sags. Similarly, incorrect fastener placement or using the wrong type of fasteners can weaken the deck’s structure, making it susceptible to damage from weather conditions or daily use.
Moreover, improper installation can also result in non-compliance with local building codes, which might necessitate costly repairs or even complete reconstruction to meet safety standards. This is why it’s crucial to either thoroughly understand decking construction principles or to hire a professional with the right expertise and credentials. Ensuring that every part of the deck—from the foundation to the railing—is properly installed not only enhances its safety and aesthetic appeal but also extends its service life, providing lasting value and enjoyment.
