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It’s time to light up the night! While you may want a bit of shade during the day, it’s essential to have enough light after the sun goes down. More than just a practical addition to your already-stunning outdoor space, deck lights are an essential component that can provide safety, functionality, and of course, great aesthetics. Quality lighting can be the difference between a simple deck and a neighborhood hotspot for gatherings. The demand for well-lit decks keeps growing as homeowners are aiming to improve their outdoor space experiences—whether it’s dining, relaxing, or entertaining. None of those things are enjoyable if the lighting is underwhelming or missing altogether. To make sure your deck is the talk of the neighborhood, let’s take a look at some ways you can get the most out of outdoor deck lights. Planning and Design Assess the Deck Layout The first step to great deck lighting is figuring out where to position it. Instead of installing it in random places, consider the whole design of the deck. This will help you identify challenges and opportunities to place your lights in ideal locations. Be sure to focus on stairs, railings, and seating areas, as these are the spots that will help you maximize enjoyment and safety. Choose the Right Type of Lighting You have options when choosing the type of lights for your deck: Post Cap Lights: These provide great mood lighting. Thanks to their positions on top of deck posts, they provide even, subtle lighting. Recessed Lights: These are installed flush with the surface of the deck, which helps to highlight important focal areas. String Lights: These are the most versatile of the bunch. They’re decorative and allow you to create a cozy atmosphere. When you’re choosing your light types, think of the ambience, functionality, and even energy efficiency they offer. Low voltage deck lighting is a great option thanks to their long lifespans and energy-saving features. Electrical Considerations Power Source There are a few different ways to power your deck lights: Solar: This is easy to install and energy-efficient. Just take care to place the panels where they’ll get enough sunlight to provide illumination when you need it. Low Voltage: This is possibly the most versatile option, thanks to its safety and efficiency. Line Voltage: This is often found on larger or commercial decks due to the brighter lighting it provides. There are advantages and drawbacks to each power source option. While solar lights are environmentally friendly, they’re not recommended in regions that don’t get much sunlight. Low voltage deck lighting is safe and easy to install, and line voltage boasts the most power but requires careful planning and installation. Wiring and Safety It’s vital that you have proper wiring before installing your outdoor deck lights. Why? There are plenty of aesthetic and troubleshooting considerations, as well as safety and compliance concerns. Weather-resistant materials are an important implementation to ensure every connection is protected from rain and other elements. Your local electrical codes should be a driving factor in your wiring and installation. It’s recommended that you familiarize yourself with them, hire a qualified electrician, or both. Safety is the number one concern when working with electricity, so be sure you aren’t putting too much strain on your circuits. An overload could spell disaster under certain circumstances. Furthermore, ensure you’re using GFCI outlets, proper insulation, and grounded wiring. Installation Techniques Preparing the Deck Preparation can make or break an installation!. Make sure you clear the deck of any and all obstacles, and make sure the whole surface is clean and dry before you benign. Make sure there’s no damage to the deck that needs to be addressed before installation. A clean deck ensures good adhesion and an installation that lasts for a long time. Installing Different Types of Lights The installation process can vary significantly depending on the type of deck lights you’re installing. Cap lights need mounting brackets, and recessed lights call for holes to be drilled into the deck surface itself. No matter which lights you choose, make sure you space them out and properly align them to provide even distribution across the area you want to cover. Weatherproofing and Durability As we mentioned earlier, weatherproofed wiring and equipment is crucial not only to the longevity of the lights themselves, but also the safety of anyone using the deck in the future. We reiterate that you should be using waterproof connectors and sealant where it’s necessary. Despite all that, regular maintenance is recommended to make sure everything is in working order. Checking for loose connections and making sure all light lenses are clean can make for a long lifespan for your lights. No matter what choices you make, you’ll need the proper tools to bring it all together. The one-stop hardware store at Ladiesburg Lumber is happy to supply you! Aesthetic Considerations Ambiance Aside from providing visibility, deck lights are primarily used to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere for its visitors. We’ve already covered the importance of placing your fixtures strategically, but the color of the light itself can make a noticeable difference in the mood. Opt for warm lighting that helps people relax. Dimmers and other smart controls can also play a significant role in your deck’s ambiance. Highlighting Key Features Though accent lighting isn’t great for visibility, it can highlight significant architectural features like pergolas or hedges. Draw attention to key fixtures with spotlights and uplights. Troubleshooting and Maintenance Common Issues and Solutions As with all electrical equipment, there’s always the possibility of troubleshooting issues. Given enough time, you can even consider these issues inevitable. If you notice flickering lights, malfunctioning fixtures, or inconsistent lighting, you should address it to make sure there’s no damage. Check all connections, replace bulbs, or adjust your power sources if necessary. In more extreme cases, resetting the entire system or replacing faulty components entirely may be required. Regular Maintenance If you have a regular maintenance and inspection routine established, many of the issues above can be addressed promptly or avoided altogether. This includes damage checks, fixture cleaning, and the replacement of worn out parts. If you need to perform cleaning on lenses and fixtures, be sure to use mild cleaning agents and stay away from abrasive materials that may damage your equipment. Time to Light Up Your Deck If you want your deck lights to be installed perfectly, careful planning is required. By making sure you’re selecting the right equipment, considering your visual preferences, and accounting for troubleshooting, you’re setting yourself up for success with your lighting installation. Get in touch with us at Ladiesburg Lumber for additional tips related to expert decking!

You’ve got the contract. You’ve got the lumber. But what about the actual strategy for building a deck? For deck builders new to the profession, there are a few tips that shouldn’t be ignored when you’re constructing decks for your customers. To maximize customer satisfaction and make work you’re proud of, take account of these current building tactics in your deck contracts. 1: Plan Thoroughly We know you’re eager to start swinging hammers and spinning the buzzsaw, take care to plan everything—and we mean everything. What are your customer’s preferences? This is the obvious one, as no homeowner is going to simply tell a contractor to build a deck with no further specifications. But past the customer’s needs, consider the setting. Available space is a major factor here. You won’t be limited if the property you’re working on is huge, but you’ll need to get creative when space is tight. In addition, consider the deck’s height and how it will affect the stairs. Utilizing software and other tools can help you be precise in your planning, providing accurate measurements and renderings that will help you work and give your customers a thorough understanding of the plans. 2: Choose Quality Materials We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention top-quality materials here. Because not every kind of lumber is made equal, the choice you make could have an impact on the longevity and even safety of the deck you build. Smart deck builders will educate their customers on the benefits of choosing materials that may not be the cheapest but will require minimal maintenance and repairs in the long run. But what are the determining factors in the quality of decking materials? It goes without saying that flimsy wood of any kind should be avoided at all costs, but other factors aren’t so apparent. Durability against weather elements, resilience to pests, and lasting aesthetics all contribute to the need (or lack thereof) for maintenance. Generally, the higher quality materials offer great durability features. Want to step up the quality even more? Composite decking boards offer yet another layer of protection from the elements! 3: Prioritizer Structural Integrity Under no circumstances should you compromise on the structural integrity of any deck. Without proper foundational aspects like proper support, framing, and anchoring translates to a long-lasting structure. It also means the deck you’re building will be up to code and free of any safety risks. And speaking of safety risks… 4: Incorporate Safety Features Deck builders should always prioritize safety. You don’t want to bear the financial or conscious burden of one of your decks collapsing or causing some other form of injury. Those staircases and decks with questionable railings may look cool and modern, but they’re injuries waiting to happen. Consider the often overlooked issue of sunburn, as well. Being outside is great, but too much sun can do a lot of damage to the skin. If your customers are looking for some shade options, an awning is just the ticket! Of course, no deck comes with a rock solid guarantee that there won’t be an injury; humans can be chaotic and unpredictable no matter what safety tips their deck contractor gives them. What if kids are being rowdy and one of them falls? That’s why you should always have adequate liability insurance coverage. If the unthinkable happens on a deck you built, it’s good to have taken precautions. 5: Regular Maintenance and Inspections When that final nail has been hammered, the work is done, right? Wrong! Encourage your customers to take care of their new deck so they can enjoy it for years to come. We’ve already discussed choosing durable materials, but wear and tear is bound to happen no matter what you use. Given enough time, deterioration happens. Sometimes it’s not apparent, which is why you should encourage regular inspections by a professional deck contractor. Educating your customer on basic maintenance routines can also build invaluable trust! Conclusion In following these five tips, new deck builders (and those who are a bit rusty) can provide consistent quality in all their projects. Thorough planning, quality materials selection, safety prioritization, and more can help you build an impressive reputation and goodwill in your target customer base. When you’re ready to purchase those quality decking materials, give Ladiesburg Lumber a visit. With so many options, deck contractors can make great things happen!

What if we told you that you could have a beautiful, durable deck to make memories on for years to come without constant maintenance worries? Composite decking is rapidly becoming a popular choice, and for good reason! It offers a great alternative to traditional wooden decks because of its durability, attractive appearance, and of course, low maintenance. But before you take the plunge and start building, there are some things to take into consideration. Taking some time to research options like contractors, prices, and your own needs will guarantee an ideal finished product. Factors to Consider We’ll take a look at specifics of materials soon, but first let’s glance at some factors that will help you make a decision. Durability Not every composite decking material is the same. Keep an eye out for decking that will keep itself together and resist staining, fading, scratching, and mold. It’s also a big advantage to have a deck that holds its own against harsh weather. Low price points may be enticing in the moment, but if they mean you’re getting a deck that will look faded and warped in the near future, cross them off your list. Maintenance Do you have a busy lifestyle? If so, you probably don’t want to spend your leisure time making fixes to this area that’s meant to help you relax. Though this decking option is known for requiring less maintenance than wood, some brands are simply better at keeping that promise than others. At Ladiesburg Lumber, we prioritize quality materials by partnering with trusted manufacturers like Fiberon, Trex, and TimberTech. Aesthetics Nobody wants an ugly deck, but you certainly don’t want a deck that looks completely different than your home. When you’re shopping around, keep in mind how yours will look in comparison to your house. You’ll be kicking yourself if you go with an option that clashes heavily with everything around it. You don’t want a light-colored deck when the trim elsewhere on your property is much darker. Another factor to keep in mind is fencing. If possible, choose a look for your deck that matches that of your existing fence. The colors will all come together for a satisfying scheme! And of course, if you need a hand in making your choices, we’re always happy to help! Take a look at our gallery for some inspiration. Price Wooden decks tend to require comparably more maintenance and repairs, and they often aren’t cheap. While the price tag for composite boards is higher than wood decking, that cost is made up over time thanks to low maintenance needs. The question here is, “Can I cover the initial price?” If so, this is an investment worth making. With good care, that price tag is going to be a no-brainer when you look back on it years from now. Different Composite Decking Boards This stuff is made to be strong! The combination of recycled wood fibers, plastic, and chemical binding agents makes for an impressively sturdy material. This formula isn’t the same across the board though (pun intended). Again, some manufacturers just make better stuff than others, so here are some variables to look for. At Ladiesburg Lumber, we make it a point to offer high-quality products from the best brands! Composition: The fiber/plastic/chemical ratio of the material varies from brand to brand, which can affect its appearance and performance. Capped vs. Uncapped: Some brands make their materials even more durable by capping it with a protective layer, so keep an eye out for this valuable feature! Texture and Color Options: Another big advantage of composite decking boards is the variety of textures and colors available. Get creative with your choices so you end up with a deck that is 100% you! Assessing Your Needs No two homeowners are alike. What may be an end-all-be-all feature to one person might not matter in the slightest to another. Due to this diversity in needs across the spectrum of homeowners, a huge array of options are available. Now it’s time to narrow those options down! Here are a few things to think about Climate If you live in a place that sees a lot of humidity and rain, you probably won’t want to use the same materials as someone living in a dry region. You’ll want to prioritize mold resistance, whereas they won’t have as much of a need for it. Usage What is your deck going to be used for? Relaxation? Cookouts? A little bit of both? Having a solid answer will help with material selection as well as design! Local Regulations As with any construction project, you need to make sure your planned deck won’t be violating any local regulations with its materials. Researching Brands and Reviews In any given area, there are several materials manufacturers and sellers on the market. Naturally, some are more reputable than others. Researching the best one for your project can be the difference between total satisfaction and an expensive piece of regret. Reputation What do other people say about the brands you’re considering? Do they have a good reputation with the community and people you know personally? Our experts can help guide your decision-making. Just give us a call! Customer Reviews Similarly, online reviews can be a big help when making your decision. Check out Google, Yelp, and other reputable sources for customer feedback. Keep a keen eye out for common praises and complaints to help you identify the worthwhile contributions. Warranty Length and coverage of the warranty on your deck should never be overlooked. If the unfortunate happens and you do require repairs or replacement, you want to have the reassurance that you’re covered. Making Your Decision So you’ve researched the best results for “composite decking near me”, weighed the factors, and assessed both your needs and buying options. It’s time to make your decision! Don’t be afraid to get in touch with the pros or even visit their showroom to see everything (and everyone) in person. Building a deck is a huge step in the journey to having a wonderful home. By understanding your options as well as the start-to-finish process, you’re setting yourself up for an investment that will bring you joy and relaxation for years to come. When you’re ready for this big leap, get in touch with us at Ladiesburg Lumber. Are you ready to make your deck the best place for cookouts, hangouts, and everything in between?