Loading

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.

Popular Materials Articles
Composite Decking

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.

Wood Materials

Pressure Treated Wood: Types, Grading Standards & More

Wondering if pressure treated wood is right for your project? Learn more about the different types of pressure treated lumber as well as how long they last at Decks.com.

Deck Hardware

Deck Screws vs Wood Screws

Your guide to understanding the differences between wood deck screws and composite deck screws.

Next Step: Footings Articles
Concrete

Cutting a Concrete Pad

Learn how to use a concrete saw to cut a hole in a patio slab to install a deck footing.

Concrete

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.

Footing Installation

Do I need to use rebar?

Our inspector discusses using steel rebar for deck footings.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic

Popular Materials Articles
Decking Reviews

Is Trex Decking Worth the Investment? Expert Insights and Reviews

Discover why Trex decking is worth the investment. Learn about its durability, low maintenance, eco-friendliness, and the long-term value it adds to your home.

Decking Reviews

TimberTech

TimberTech Decking is manufactured by Timbertech Limited in Wilmington, OH.

Composite Decking

Differences Between PVC & Composite Decking

Both PVC and composite materials can be a great alternative to traditional wood decking. Learn the pros and cons of each material with our full comparison.

Next Step: Footings Articles
Footing Installation

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.

Concrete

Protecting From Collapse

Learn how to use cardboard sonotubes and hole covers to protect your deck footing holes from caving in and flooding before pouring concrete.

Concrete

How to Buy Concrete: Hiring a Ready-Mix Truck

Hiring a truck to deliver ready-mixed concrete for your project may make better sense than mixing it yourself. Learn how to order concrete for your deck at Decks.com.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic