Category: Pro Tips

Summer is gone. The heat has died down. In its place is the crisp air and colorful leaves of fall. Though it’s getting colder, we have a few months to go until the harsh weather of winter comes knocking. With these mild temperatures in mind, it’s the perfect time to give your fence a little TLC. Let’s explore what you can do to keep your metal, vinyl, or wood fence healthy and sturdy through the winter. Inspect for Damage Before you make any repairs or replacements, you should identify any areas of concern by walking along the length of your fence with a keen eye for damage. If you have a wood fence, be on the lookout for signs of rot. Pay special attention to the base where moisture is most likely to collect. Additionally, look for warping and loose boards. If you have a metal fence, look for rust, corrosion, and loose connections. If you have a chain link fence, make sure there are no gaps or sagging areas that could become a detriment to the fence’s strength. Finally, if you’re inspecting a vinyl fence, keep your eyes peeled for holes and cracks that might have developed as a result of fluctuating temperatures or physical impacts. If any posts are wobbling or leaning, they should be fixed to maintain the stability of the structure. Clean the Fence Now that your inspection is complete, it’s time to clean the fence—we promise we’ll eventually get to the actual repairs, so bear with us. It’s important to clean your fence because it means you’ll be ridding it of things that could cause erosion, like mold or mildew. Cleaning Tips: Wood Fence Use a mild detergent and water to remove unwelcome substances from the surface. If you’re using a pressure washer, take care to use it on a lower setting to avoid causing damage to the wood itself. Cleaning Tips: Metal Fence Mild soap and water are a great combination for cleaning your metal fence, as well. It will effectively remove grime that can cause corrosion and make your fence look unsightly. Once you finish cleaning, dry it thoroughly to reduce its chances of corrosion. Cleaning Tips: Vinyl Fence One big benefit of a vinyl fence is its low upkeep requirements. Because of this, you’ll find fence maintenance to be a rare event. Even so, cleaning dirt and grime off of it can only help to keep it in top condition. Use a garden hose and soft brush, as harsh materials could scratch the surface of your vinyl fence. Repair or Replace If you notice a small issue in the fall and fail to fix it, you may be regretting that neglect in the midst of a cold winter when the problem has grown. Best to do it now! Repair Tips: Wood Fence Replace damaged or rotting boards on your wood fence that are beyond repair, as well as rusted or loose nails, screws, and other hardware. If you notice your fence has suffered significant warping, it may be wise to replace the entire affected section. Repair Tips: Metal Fence Notice any rust when you performed your inspection? Time to make it go away! Sand down the affected areas and apply a rust-inhibiting primer before you paint over any spots that need attention. While you’re at it, tighten any loose screws or bolts. Repair Tips: Vinyl Fence If you came across any cracks or holes during your walk along the fence, utilize a vinyl repair kit to fill them in. Once that’s done, make sure all the fence posts are secure. If there are any loose ones, position them and stabilize them by filling in the post holes. Apply a Protective Coating A protective coating is a great way to protect your fence from the elements. This helpful layer of defense can minimize moisture, rust, and ultraviolet (UV) damage. Wood Fences: Wood stain sealant is the star here, as it helps prevent moisture and rot. Reapplication is recommended every couple of years to make sure you’re maximizing protection. Metal Fences: Once you remove dirt and dust from your metal fence, give it a coat of rust-proof paint to avoid corrosion in the future. Vinyl Fences: While this material has a natural resistance to rot and rust, a UV protectant can give your fence the help it needs to defend against fading and cracking. Trim Nearby Foliage If you notice any trees, bushes, or shrubs getting a little too cozy with your fence, it’s time to trim them back. This can help prevent scratches, buildup of moisture, and mold. As a general rule, it’s good to keep greenery at least six inches away from your fence to give it some breathing room. This can help airflow and keep stains at bay. Under no circumstances should vines or other plants be growing through the boards of your fence (that’s what trellises are for). Conclusion We’ll say it again: Fall is the best time to perform fence maintenance. The mild temperature and air quality create the ideal circumstances to address dirt, mold, and other damage. Whether your fence is wood, vinyl, or metal, there are plenty of steps you can take to maximize its lifespan. If you find that parts of your fence need to be repaired, our lumberyard is the perfect place for high-quality materials. Stop by when you need to, or get in touch with us with further questions. Have a great fall!

A car without seatbelts. A climbing wall without harnesses. A bike without a helmet. What do these have in common? They’re all missing vital safety features… and a deck without a railing would be right at home on that list. A deck railing is an absolute must, for reasons that are (hopefully) obvious. It’s a crucial safety feature that needs to be sturdy, but luckily there are plenty of options to also make it an aesthetically striking part of your outdoor space. Whether you want a sleek design or a more traditional look, choosing the right railing is key to your personal style. In this guide, we’ll give you a few pointers—safety and aesthetics—so you can make an informed decision you’ll be happy with. Understand Your Needs Before making any material or design selections, it’s important to understand your needs in terms of your deck railing. Here are the “big three” things you should take into consideration: Primary Function: Do you plan on prioritizing safety, visuals, or a combination of the two? If your deck is elevated or frequently used by pets and children, safety will likely be a priority for you. If those things aren’t a concern and you want to create a visual focal point, though, aesthetics may take precedence. Environment: When working with any outdoor project, it’s important to take weather into consideration. When choosing materials for your railing, keep in mind that their durability can be affected by rain, ice, direct sunlight, and more. Some materials deal with these things well, while others may need frequent maintenance because of it. Budget: Railing options cover a wide price range, so it’s important to set an amount you’re willing to spend. This process will generally help you eliminate several options you’re on the fence about. Material Options Now that you’ve identified your needs, it’s time to select what your deck railing will be made of! Wood Pros: Wood railings are perfect for offering that natural, classic aesthetic that helps bridge the gap between nature-made and man-made. It offers versatility thanks to its ability to be stained, painted, or carved. Cons: Wood requires more maintenance than most other options, as it can warp, crack, or rot. Metal (Aluminum, Steel, Iron) Pros: Known for its durability, metal has low maintenance requirements thanks to its weather resistant capabilities. In addition, it gives a sleek look that’s perfect for the more modern-minded. Cons: Metal options—steel and iron in particular—are often more expensive than other materials. With the exception of aluminum deck railing, they may rust if not treated properly. Composite Pros: If you want low maintenance requirements and a range of style options, composite deck railings are the way to go. Composite materials are designed to mimic the style of wood without the upkeep requirements. Cons: Those with a keen eye can tell the difference between composite and wood, and feel composite lacks the charm of more traditional materials. In addition, composite deck railing options typically have higher price tags than metal or wood. Glass Pros: If you want unobstructed views, a glass railing is a great option. Enjoy your scenic surroundings on your modern-inspired deck! Cons: This option will require more frequent cleaning to remove dirt and smudges (just think of how often you have to clean your windows). Style and Design Considerations Just as two cars with the same engine can look vastly different, two well-built decks can give off entirely different visuals as well. Let’s consider the options that will determine your railing’s appearance. Balusters and Spindles: These are the vertical pieces that connect top and bottom rails. There are plenty of designs you can choose for them, from traditional straight wood to stylish metal spindles. Top Rails and Handrails: When selecting your top rail, comfort and grip should be the priority. Go with a style that looks good, but also feels comfortable to the touch. After all, guests will likely be leaning on the railing frequently. Color and Finish: Perhaps the first thing most people notice about many things in life—be it a house, a car, a dog, etc.—is its color. A deck railing is no different. Select something that complements your deck and home well. As for the finish, we suggest one that offers good UV protection to prevent fading. Installation and Maintenance Once you’ve made all your selections, it’s time to install your railing! Should you do it yourself or hire a professional? DIY Versus Professional Installation If you’re handy and enjoy tackling home improvement projects, this is definitely up your alley. It could save on labor costs, but will take more time and effort. Another thing to consider is your skill level. You may love doing projects yourself, but this is a significant safety feature we’re dealing with. Be honest with yourself when considering a DIY project. Do you have the skills to do it right? Conversely, professional installation will ensure the railing is installed correctly and follows any safety codes and regulations. The up-front cost may be higher, but the money you’ll likely save in maintenance costs over time will easily make up for it. Maintenance Tips Even if you select materials that boast low maintenance requirements, there’s still some upkeep that can be done to extend the life of your railing even more. Here are a few tips: Clean your railings regularly to remove dirt, grime, and other forms of debris. Conduct an inspection every season to make sure you aren’t missing signs of warping, rot, or other damage. Apply protective coatings and treatments as needed. This is especially vital for metal and metal deck railing installations, as it helps them last much longer. Safety and Compliance As we’ve said plenty of times already, safety should be your top priority; people won’t care how pretty your deck is if there’s a serious accident. It’s important to adhere to local building codes and safety standards. Building Codes: These will dictate requirements such as the height, spacing, and strength of the railing. For instance, standard regulations typically dictate that your railing needs to be at least 36 inches tall. Safety Standards: It’s important to ensure that the spacing between balusters is small enough that pets and children won’t be able to fit through. Your railing’s strength should also be able to withstand a large amount of weight and pressure without breaking or even bending. It’s Time to Install Your Deck Railing Making the right choices around your deck’s railing requires a careful balance of functionality, safety, and aesthetics—though those three things shouldn’t be equally weighted. Safety should always be a priority, especially on decks that are high above the ground. By considering your preferences, making smart material selections, and ensuring you’re in compliance with all safety regulations, you can make a decision that checks all the boxes! Though a DIY project may be enticing, we recommend hiring the professionals to make sure everything is installed correctly and you have a deck that serves you well for years to come. Get in touch with us and we’ll help you along in the railing selection process!

Decking takes a beating. It must endure sun, snow, storm, hail, heat, wind, rain, and ice. Day after day. Year after year. So while building a deck is an exciting home improvement project–offering family and friends a lovely space in which to enjoy the outdoors–because of the harsh environment it lives in, it's important to choose the right material so it stays looking good. But with the variety of decking materials available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. The material you select not only impacts the deck's appearance but also its durability and maintenance needs over time. Among the options available, composite decking has emerged as a top contender for homeowners looking for a blend of beauty and resilience. Here’s why. What Is Composite Decking? How Composite Decking Is Made Composite decking is a man-made building product. So-called “engineered building products” are ubiquitous in construction these days, for both interior and exterior use. Composite decking boards include an equal mix of recycled wood fibers and recycled plastic that are bonded together. These materials combine to create a composite board that mimics the look of wood but comes with enhanced durability and a reduced need for maintenance. Composite decking boards are often capped with a polymer shell for even greater resistance to the elements. Comparison With Traditional Wood Decking Wood is wood, and while beautiful, when used for decking it can warp and splinter. It also requires regular upkeep, including staining, sealing, and the occasional replacement of damaged boards. Composite decking is engineered to resist these common issues. The beauty of composite decking is that it provides the aesthetic appeal of wood without the hassle–able to maintain its appearance and structure for years with minimal effort or expense on your part. Benefits of Composite Decking Boards Durability: Resistant to Rot, Mold, and Insects Wood will rot. Maybe not the wood inside your house, but with enough exposure to the elements all exterior woods–even those that are pressure treated–will eventually break down. As such, one of the most significant advantages of composite decking boards is their durability: their stubborn resistance to the common issues that plague wood decks, such as rot, mold, and even insect infestations. This means your deck will maintain its structural integrity and appearance. Low Maintenance: No Need for Staining, Sealing, or Painting Wood requires upkeep. Painting. Staining. Sealing. Composite decking is very low-maintenance by comparison, as there’s no need for any of the aforementioned tasks. A simple occasional cleaning is all that’s required to keep your composite board deck looking great. This ease of maintenance allows you to spend more time enjoying your deck versus working on it. Aesthetics: Wide Variety of Colors and Textures that Mimic Wood There was a time when composite decking boards came in a limited range of colors. No longer. With their increasing popularity and advancements in manufacturing technology, there’s now a wide range of composite decking colors available for homeowners to choose from. Textures have come a long way, as well, with finishes that make composite decking essentially indistinguishable from natural wood–whether you prefer the look of oak, cedar, or walnut, These boards also maintain their color and finish over time, without fading, unlike traditional wood. Eco-Friendly: Made From Recycled Materials For environmentally-conscious homeowners, composite boards also make a great decking choice. The wood fibers and plastics they’re made from are recycled materials, which means less waste going into landfills and fewer trees being cut down. Thus, a composite deck installation supports sustainability efforts–reducing your environmental footprint. Long-Term Cost Efficiency: Lower Maintenance and Replacement Costs Over Time Composite boards can be more expensive to buy upfront, it’s true, but they’re cheaper in the long run. The reduced need for maintenance, combined with greater durability, means composite decking requires fewer repairs and replacements over the lifespan of your deck. Common Misconceptions About Composite Decking Myths: "Composite Decking Looks Fake" And "It’s Too Expensive" Despite its demonstrated benefits, myths about composite decking persist. One common myth is that composite decking looks fake, or that it looks like plastic. Again, this is no longer the case. Advancements in materials technology and manufacturing mean modern composite decking is almost indistinguishable from natural wood. Another persistent myth is that composite decking is prohibitively expensive. Again, while the upfront cost may be higher, the savings on maintenance and replacement boards more than make up for it over the lifespan of the deck. Advancements in Technology That Make Composite Decking a Viable Option Technology marches on, and not just in the obvious industries, like electronics. The construction industry benefits from technological advancement, too. Innovations in materials manufacturing have enhanced the durability, texture, and eco-friendliness of composite decking boards, not to mention the expansive range of composite decking colors now available. All of this makes a composite deck installation a superior option for those who want a long-lasting, beautiful deck. Strong, Stylish, Smart Outdoor spaces are an important part of any home. As much as having a home is about a place to stay warm and dry in comfort and style, being able to get out into the fresh air and entertain or just relax is arguably just as important. So if you’re building a deck you want it to last, and you want it to look good for a long time. Composite decking offers a compelling combination of durability, low maintenance, aesthetic appeal, and environmental benefits. It stands out as a smart investment for any homeowner looking for a long-lasting and beautiful outdoor space.

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!