How to Dry & Treat Wet Wood
Most wood sold for deck building is considered wet and has a moisture content of over 30 percent water weight. Wet wood will shrink as it dries out and is less stable, which can cause it to check and warp. It also provides an environment where fungi and bacteria produce rot and insects thrive. Dry wood is lighter, easier to work with and less likely to split. You can buy lumber that has been kiln dried, but this will cost you a premium price. If you have purchased green or wet lumber, you should dry it out as best you can before working with it by stacking it on spacers and storing it in a shaded, dry and well ventilated area so the air can circulate evenly. You can check the moisture content by using a moisture meter at your lumberyard or cross cutting a board and examining the interior wood. Wood shrinks in all dimensions as it dries, but most problems are caused in how the boards handle the shrinkage in width and thickness.
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.
Gorilla Deck
Gorilla Deck Vinyl Decking is manufactured by Homeland Vinyl Products in Birmingham, AL.
Waterproof Decking Materials & Options
Did you know you can ensure the space under your deck stays dry, or even waterproof your decking boards? Explore all waterproof decking options 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.
Layout Deck Foundations
Learn how to lay out your deck footings accurately using triangulation with our step-by-step instructions.
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
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.
Hurricane Ties: Uses and Installation
Hurricane ties provide your deck with additional stability against high winds and rain. Learn how to utilize and install hurricane ties on Decks.com.
Waterproof Decking Materials & Options
Did you know you can ensure the space under your deck stays dry, or even waterproof your decking boards? Explore all waterproof decking options at Decks.com.
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.
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.
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.
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