Dear Prospective Deck Owner,
When embarking on the journey of building a new deck, you likely have numerous questions about the entire process. I once proudly boasted about having the best deck on the block, only to watch it deteriorate over time due to the shortcomings of composite decking. The realization struck me that composite materials may not look as appealing after a few years, leading to costly repairs. Today, as I admire my newly restored deck, I can affirm that the journey was indeed worthwhile. In the hope of preventing others from making the same mistakes, I’d like to share some valuable tips to make the process less daunting.
One aspect I once underestimated, which turned out to be the most challenging part of my experience, was finding the right contractor. Overconfident in my own handy skills, I believed I knew best and that every contractor was beneath me. Admitting that I was wrong was a humbling experience. Finding a knowledgeable and trustworthy contractor to entrust with your money is no easy task. After all, you are investing your hard-earned money in someone you likely don’t know personally, entrusting them with the construction of a deck for your family’s enjoyment. Conducting thorough research, including background checks, can lead you to the right professional. If you are fortunate, you may develop a lasting relationship with a contractor you can rely on for future projects.
In an oversaturated market, the decking industry constantly introduces new materials, each claiming to be superior to the rest. However, it can be challenging to determine what is genuinely reliable in such a sea of options. For instance, composites often advertise themselves as “green” and “maintenance-free.” Nevertheless, my experience has taught me that these claims are far from the truth. The plastic used in composite boards can contain toxic chemicals. Moreover, no deck is truly “maintenance-free.” Regular cleaning and care are essential for ensuring the longevity of your investment.
While softwoods like pine and cedar look attractive immediately after installation, the elements can take their toll over the years, turning these materials into eyesores.
Through extensive research following my composite decking mishap, I discovered that exotic hardwoods possess outstanding qualities. They are renowned for their density, strength, and natural resistance to mold and bacteria. Teak was once considered the pinnacle of decking materials, but there is an even better option available: Ipe decking. It boasts stunning aesthetics and surpasses the performance of teak. Its strength and density contribute to its structural integrity. Notably, if you decide to allow your Ipe decking to mature into a patina gray and later wish to restore its original colors, it is entirely possible. A pressure washer and a bit of Ipe Oil™ can bring back its rich hues. Composite materials simply cannot offer this level of flexibility.
My purpose in sharing my experiences is to encourage you to remain open-minded. If, like me, you sometimes feel overconfident and believe you possess an exhaustive knowledge of everything, avoid letting your pride obstruct sound judgment. Learn from my past arrogance and work toward creating the finest deck in your neighborhood.
Sincerely,
A Content Deck Owner
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Avoiding the Common Pitfalls of Deck Building: A Lesson in Integrity The 7 Deadly Sins of Deck Building: A Comprehensive Guide Building the Perfect Deck: Lessons from Envy and Greed Deck Building: Balancing Quality and Cost The Art of Deck Construction: Avoiding Common Mistakes
