Deck Joist Water Protection
There are a number of shield barrier products available to wrap your pressure-treated deck framing materials to prevent water damage and hardware corrosion. Most of these products are sold as rolls of self-adhesive peel-and-stick flashing tape. Some builders install this material over the tops of joists for extra insurance against rot caused by water. Other builders use this material as a barrier between ACQ pressure-treated wood and hardware to prevent corrosion.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
How to Sister Deck Joists
Learn about how to sister deck joists over a beam for framing a large deck or adding onto an existing deck.
Building a Round or Curved Deck
Learn how to build a curved deck using standard wood-framing materials. Composite decking material is more flexible for curved decks than wood.
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
How to Install Composite Decking
Learn about how to install composite decking. Topics include expansion and contraction issues and hidden fastener systems.
Best Time to Build a Deck
People often wonder when the best time to build a deck is. Learn why building a deck in winter or fall might be your best bet.
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
Why is Joist Protection so Important for Your Deck?
If you’ve ever seen a piece of wood left out in the weather for any period of time, you know what happens: decay. Whether through wet rot, insect damage, or mildew, the fibers begin to break down.
Framing a Deck Parallel to a House
Learn about an alternative framing method that allows you to install your decking perpendicular to the house and makes the deck free standing.
How to Install Deck Post Wraps and Sleeves
Learn how to install trim or post sleeves over your pressure-treated support posts for a cleaner finish and to protect the material from checking.
Building an Outdoor Space with James DeSantis
Composite decking can not be placed directly on concrete. But a substructure can solve for this. Explore this deck project with James DeSantis
How to Install Composite Decking
Learn about how to install composite decking. Topics include expansion and contraction issues and hidden fastener systems.
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