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.

Composite Decking

Composite Decking Prices

Composite decking ranges in price from $2 to $6 per linear foot. Compare brands and costs with our composite decking pricing chart at Decks.com.

Decking Reviews

Fence Post Spacing: How Far Apart Should Fence Posts Be?

Spending a little more time and effort up front on determining the best fence post spacing for your deck project, could save you a bunch of time and money when it comes time to build it. Here’s how to do it…

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.

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.

Footing Installation

Deck Bracing

Learn how to install knee bracing in-between your deck support posts to provide extra strength against high winds and to prevent racking forces for tall decks.

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

CorrectDeck

CorrectDeck composite decking is manufactured by Correct Bldg. Products in Biddleford, ME

Decking Reviews

Gorilla Deck

Gorilla Deck Vinyl Decking is manufactured by Homeland Vinyl Products in Birmingham, AL.

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.

Footing Installation

Do I need to use rebar?

Our inspector discusses using steel rebar for deck footings.

Footing Installation

Installing footings on a sloped yard

Our inspector explains how to install concrete deck footings on uneven ground.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic