Bark Side Up vs. Best Side Up
Usually, the best policy to use for surfacing an attractive wood floor is to always expose the best side of the board. If your deck boards are wet, some carpenters prefer to install them bark side up to prevent cupping. This technique will orientate the visible growth rings in a downward arc like a dome to eliminate any protruding corners and allow water to run off the boards. Another reason to install the decking bark side up is because the pith side is prone to shelling, especially in trees that have dense latewood growth rings like southern pine. As a general rule, the drier the decking, the fewer problems you will have no matter how you install it. Also, consider that there is more sapwood on the bark side of a board, and sapwood more easily accepts stains than heartwood. We recommend you consult with your lumber supplier for a recommendation based on the species of wood and the climate in your region.
Capped Composite Decking
What is capped composite decking? It's a great option if you like the look of wood but not the maintenance. Learn about capped composite at Decks.com.
Common Wood Defects: Types & Causes of Lumber Issues
There are many common types of defects when it comes to wood decking, such as dead knots, shakes, twists and wanes. Learn about lumber defects at Decks.com.
How to Read Lumber Grade Stamping
Any lumber you purchase should have a grade stamp, which provides info about the characteristics of the wood. Learn how to read lumber stamps at Decks.com.
Cutting a Concrete Pad
Learn how to use a concrete saw to cut a hole in a patio slab to install a deck footing.
How to Install & Build Deck Footings
Learn how to install concrete footings to properly support your deck. Watch our step-by-step foundations video.
Digging Foundations
Learn how to hand dig or mechanically dig your deck footings with step-by-step instructions. Learn what to do if you hit a rock.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Eco Friendly Composite & Wood Decking Options
Looking for the most environmentally friendly way to add a gorgeous deck to your home? Learn how composite decking is made from recycled materials at Decks.com.
Common Wood Defects: Types & Causes of Lumber Issues
There are many common types of defects when it comes to wood decking, such as dead knots, shakes, twists and wanes. Learn about lumber defects at Decks.com.
Aluminum vs Composite Decking
Both Aluminum and Composite are great alternatives for traditional wood decking. Learn which material will best suit your home with our full comparison.
How many footings do I need?
Learn how to determine the number of footings and support posts you need for your deck when designing your deck frame.
Monolithic Pier
Compare the pros and cons of installing a solid concrete deck footing using a cardboard tube or engineered forms.
Prevent Deck Sinking
Sinking deck footings can lead to serious problems. Learn what can cause concrete footings to sink. Properly installed footings will resist sinking.
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights