Composite wood decking is a fairly new technology that combines recycled materials and plastic to form a durable, more resilient decking surface.  Many think that composite wood decks are superior to traditional wood, but the jury is still out on that one.

Anyone who has ever owned wood decking knows how much maintenance it can need.  Constantly having to paint and waterproof a wooden deck can get very old, not to mention the fact that wood can become warped over time and needs to be replaced.  The makers of composite wood decking say that you no longer have to go through all this work to make your deck looking nice.
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Composite Wood Decking: A New Decking Alternative

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The new kid on the block in decking is composite decking.  As the new kid, not many understand it very well, even thought there is not much difference in it and the wood it comes from.  Composite decking is a mixture of sawdust and a binder to give it form and structure.  This recycling makes it a good environmental choice, as the wood that goes into its construction is the waste from other wood products, and no trees have to be cut down specifically to make it.

How to Use Composite Decking

Composite decking responds to similar procedures as wood itself.  It is designed to be cut with a saw, nailed, or screwed in place like wood as well.  Yet for all its similarities it can surprise you with its subtle differences.
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Composite Decking: An Environmental Choice

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There are a number of different types of wood available to work for your deck, including a composite decking that is made up of recycled materials and a form of wood waste. Cedar decking falls into the wood category, and is one of the most popular choices for decking. Whether you’re planning on completing your cedar decking project yourself, or hiring a professional to do it for you, there are a few important things to know before continuing any further on the idea.

What You Need to Know When Working with Cedar Decking

Cedar is a wood that is naturally resistant to decay and insect damage, and no further chemical treatment is needed unless the lumber is in direct contact with the ground. When compared to the other available woods, cedar is prime because it does not swell or shrink as much as the other woods, lies flat, stays straight, retains fasteners, and provides a firm base for paints and stains. Added onto this is its physical beauty; cedar has a rich grain, texture, and color that compliments any architectural style.
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Working with Cedar Decking

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I believe the old saying says, the happiest day of a boat owner’s life is the day he bought his boat, the second happiest day is the day he sells it. This is because of all the maintenance that goes into a boat to keep it running well and looking good. Let’s take a look at some solutions for boat decking that will make the maintenance a bit easier for all you boat owners out there.

Wood Boat Decking

A traditional wood deck consists of planks which are caulked and tarred. High class boats might have the deck canvassed with the fabric laid down in a thick layer of paint or sealant. This style of boat decking has been replaced mainly with a fiberglass deck that is laid over treated plywood layers for easier repair and cost effectiveness, as well as options in color and weight.
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Boat Decking Alternatives

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Anyone who has had wooden decking outside of their home knows what it is like to maintain it. Constantly having to pull up wet or warped boards, constant staining and waterproofing, not to mention the fact that it gets so slippery when coated with water that it makes wooden decking seem more like a chore than a nice addition to your yard.

With aluminum decking, there is no need to ever have to worry about replacing boards. You no longer have to apply waterproofing materials, paint or worry that your children or guests are going to slip and fall due to slippery boards. Aluminum decking is the best idea you could consider for all of your decking needs.

No More Warped Wood
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Aluminum Decking

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Anyone who has had wooden decking outside of their home knows what it is like to maintain it. Constantly having to pull up wet or warped boards, constant staining and waterproofing, not to mention the fact that it gets so slippery when coated with water that it makes wooden decking seem more like a chore than a nice addition to your yard.

With aluminum decking, there is no need to ever have to worry about replacing boards. You no longer have to apply waterproofing materials, paint or worry that your children or guests are going to slip and fall due to slippery boards. Aluminum decking is the best idea you could consider for all of your decking needs.

No More Warped Wood
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A Revolution in Outdoor Decking

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Above ground pool decking is a great addition to any yard with an above ground pool.  Above ground pool decking allows your friends and family to be able to bask by and walk around the pool.  Not to mention the above ground pool decking looks much better than no decking at all.

Bask in the Sun

When you have a pool in your yard, even an above ground pool, people are going to want to come over to go swimming.  More than likely, your friends and family are all going to want to come and take a dip to cool off during the hot summer months.  Above ground pool decking allows your guests a place to rest and bask in the hot sun and acts just like the surface area around an underground pool.  Many styles of decking allow for lounge chairs to be set up, towels to be laid down, or whatever your guests choose to get their suntans on.
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Above Ground Pool Decking: Adding Beauty to Your Above Ground Pool

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While most people might not believe it to be so, building and laying your own garden decking can actually be a relatively easy task. By following the proper instructions and taking care and consideration in what you’re doing, you can actually complete your own garden decking assignment, efficiently and effectively.

Starting Off

The materials required should be attained of course before you plan out or begin any garden decking job, and some of the supplies that you will need to build your own garden decking are: flashing, caulking compound, pre-mixed concrete, gravel or crushed stone, cinder blocks, post caps, post bases, seismic ties, joist hangers, cardboard tube concrete forms, rebar, stainless steel or HDG nails, joist hanger nails, HDG bolts or lag screws, and washers. Some of the tools that you will most likely need for this project are: shovel, carpenter’s level, carpenter’s square, plumb bob, wheelbarrow, caulking gun, drill, wrench, hammer, circular saw, tape measure, safety eyewear, and scrap lumber for bracing.
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How to Build and Lay Your Own Garden Decking

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Finishing the top of you deck for quality, stability, and appearance can be a chore, but the finished look can be enhanced by tongue and groove decking. Done right, it will last a long time, and a smooth surface can be obtained easily.

That decision made, proper preparation is essential to making the finished surface livable and easily maintained. Too many times, tongue and groove decking is installed improperly with nail heads showing, ill-fitting joints, and rotting or cracked edges.
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Appearance Enhanced by Tongue and Groove Decking

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You can be certain if a contractor is using Elk composite decking, under the trade name of CrossTimbers, they have been scrutinized by Elk Building Products thoroughly. The company only accepts qualified contractors with a clean record from the Better Business Bureau, a background check, and is fully insured.

The decking division was recently added to the suppliers’ list and they offer Elk composite decking in a variety of designs and colors to satisfy just about every taste. They also offer a 20-year-warranty on their Elk composite decking products.
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Many Uses Found for Elk Composite Decking

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