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.
Redwood Decking: Cost, Maintenace & Types of Redwood
Redwood is a popular wood decking material option with a fragrant, earthy reddish brown color. Learn about the types of redwood decking 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.
Retaining Walls
Avoid problems related to digging deck footings near retaining walls. Learn some tips from the pros for how to handle these difficult situations.
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.
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
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.
Pool Decking Options
When choosing a pool deck material, you should consider slip-resistance, heat absorption and more. Find the best material for your pool deck with Decks.com.
The Ultimate Guide to Composite Decking Profiles
Jump into this comprehensive guide to discover the best composite decking profiles. We reveal the secrets behind solid, scalloped, grooved, and hollow profiles, detailing their differences in purpose, design, size, material availability, and warranty.
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 Size
You don’t need to be an engineer to figure out what size footings your new deck will need to safely support it. Everything you need to know is right here.
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.
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