New Decks: What to Expect

So you are having a deck builder out to build a new deck. This can be both an exciting and frightening time because on one hand you will have a new deck, more outdoor living space, more entertaining space, while on the other hand the layout of your yard and house will also change. It scares many of us to see a dramatic change in our daily lives, but rest assured your new deck will not only be a great addition this year, but it will also continue to give for many years to come.

There are some things you might want to prepare for just so that you are not caught unawares once the process begins.

Decking Material Stockpile
All of the decking material is going to be stockpiled close to where the deck will go. This will mainly be lumber and concrete, but it could also include many of the deck builder's tools. It is often fascinating to see the pile of lumber become an actual structure.

Use of Your House
The deck builders and laborers will need use of your house for several things. First and foremost, your contractors will need access to an outside power source to run their saws, drills, and other power tools. If there is not one in the vicinity, they may need to use a power source in your home. This is a rare case, as there are usually ample outlets scattered around the outside of your home.

They will also need access to a water source. If you have a water hose or just a spigot they will need this water to mix the concrete for the footers and piers, not to mention for an occasional drink.

The last way a deck builder will use your house is to attach a ledger board. A ledger board basically acts as a row of piers and connects the deck to your home. This way when you step from your house onto the deck, you are stepping onto another part of your house, instead of a separate entity. This ledger board just makes the deck more solid. Deck builders often have to remove a few pieces of siding so that this board is flush with the house.

Deck Staining and Treating
If you are having composite decking installed then this portion will not pertain to you. Wood decks need to be treated every 3-5 years depending on your particular climate, the exposure to the sun, and the amount of precipitation your deck receives. Once your new deck is installed, deck builders will come back in a month or so after the deck has had some exposure to the sun, and they will drape all of your plants and landscape with drop cloths so that overspray will not get on them. After this initial treatment, it is up to you to keep a close eye on your deck each year. If the deck gets water damage, the wood will turn gray and needs to be treated soon.