The Deck Store has been helping home owners, business owners, and professional contractors better understand deck and patio construction for decades. We hope to expand the reach of that knowledge through our blog.
Deck Design & Build Blog
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Read the full post »Taking care of your deck doesn't have to harm the environment. We can use products and practices that are good for our decks and the planet. Let's look at some eco-friendly ways to keep your deck looking great while minimizing environmental impact.
Key Takeaways
Aspect Eco-Friendly Approach Cleaning Use natural cleaners or eco-friendly products Wood Care Choose natural oils and sealants Pest Control Opt for natural repellents and plants Water Conservation Employ efficient cleaning methods and rainwater collection Materials Select sustainable or recycled decking options Clean Your Deck the Green Way
Cleaning your deck is important, but you don't need harsh chemicals. There are eco-friendly options that work well. DeckWise Wood Deck Cleaner is a good choice. It's part of a two-step cleaning system that's tough on dirt but easy on the environment. You can expect it to ship in 1-3 days.
If you want to try something different, there are natural alternatives to chemical cleaners. You can use things you might already have at home, like vinegar or baking soda. These work well and won't hurt your plants or grass. A mixture of warm water, mild dish soap, and white vinegar can effectively clean most deck surfaces. For tougher stains, create a paste with baking soda and water. Check out our blog for more natural cleaning ideas.
Keep Wood Looking
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Read the full post »Taking care of your deck doesn't have to harm the environment. We can use products and practices that are good for our decks and the planet. Let's look at some eco-friendly ways to keep your deck looking great while minimizing environmental impact.
Key Takeaways
Aspect Eco-Friendly Approach Cleaning Use natural cleaners or eco-friendly products Wood Care Choose natural oils and sealants Pest Control Opt for natural repellents and plants Water Conservation Employ efficient cleaning methods and rainwater collection Materials Select sustainable or recycled decking options Clean Your Deck the Green Way
Cleaning your deck is important, but you don't need harsh chemicals. There are eco-friendly options that work well. DeckWise Wood Deck Cleaner is a good choice. It's part of a two-step cleaning system that's tough on dirt but easy on the environment. You can expect it to ship in 1-3 days.
If you want to try something different, there are natural alternatives to chemical cleaners. You can use things you might already have at home, like vinegar or baking soda. These work well and won't hurt your plants or grass. A mixture of warm water, mild dish soap, and white vinegar can effectively clean most deck surfaces. For tougher stains, create a paste with baking soda and water. Check out our blog for more natural cleaning ideas.
Keep Wood Looking
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Read the full post »1. Introduction: The Importance of Innovative Lighting for Commercial Decks
Proper lighting is crucial for commercial outdoor spaces. It's not just about making things look nice - it's about safety, creating the right mood, and saving energy. These days, businesses are looking for smart ways to light up their decks that don't waste power or money.
Let's look at some cool new lighting ideas that can make your commercial deck shine. We'll cover everything from hidden lights to solar-powered options. These aren't just any old lights - they're designed to make your deck look amazing while being kind to your wallet and the planet.
Key Takeaways: DIY Deck Drainage Systems
- LED recessed lights offer sleek
- Smart rail systems provide customizable and controllable lighting
- Solar-powered options offer sustainable, cost-effective solutions
- Step lights enhance safety and aesthetics
- Color-changing
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Read the full post »Living in the city often means dealing with limited outdoor space. But that doesn't mean you can't have a beautiful and functional deck! Here are some smart solutions for making the most of your urban outdoor area, turning it into a cozy retreat or an entertainment hub that uses every inch wisely.
Key Takeaways for Small Space Deck Design
Clever Deck Ideas for Small Urban Spaces
- Use vertical space wisely with wall-mounted planters and vertical privacy screens
- Choose multi-functional furniture like storage benches and folding tables
- Add built-in storage with under-deck compartments and hollow seating units
- Pick space-saving railings such as slim cable railings or glass panels
- Use lighting to create ambiance with string lights and LED strip lighting
1. Making the Most of Vertical Space
When you're short on square footage, think up! Vertical space is your friend in small urban decks. Wall-mounted planters are a great way to add some greenery without taking up precious floor space. You can grow herbs, flowers, or even small vegetables right on your deck walls. Consider creating a living wall with a variety of plants to add texture and color to your outdoor space.
Privacy screens that extend upwards are another smart use of vertical space. They not only give you some shelter from prying eyes but can also add a decorative touch to your deck. Check out these decorative screen panels that can add both privacy and style to your space. These screens can also serve as a backdrop for climbing plants, further enhancing your vertical garden.
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Read the full post »Deck lighting can make your outdoor space safer and more inviting. Smart systems give you control and customization options. Here are some popular smart deck lighting choices and their features.
Key Things to Know About Smart Deck Lighting
Smart Deck Lighting Systems
- Enhances safety and ambiance of outdoor spaces
- Uses LED technology for energy efficiency and long life
- Popular types: post cap lights, accent lights, light strips
- Key features: brightness levels, color options, weather resistance
- Smart home integration for easy control
- Post cap lights: mounted on railing posts, provide light and style
Types of Smart Deck Lights
Post Cap Lights
Post cap lights sit on top of deck railing posts. They light up the deck and add a nice touch to the railing design. These lights serve a dual purpose of illumination and decoration, enhancing the overall look of your deck. Check out our selection of post cap lights to see different styles that can complement your deck's aesthetic.
Accent Lights
Accent lights are small lights you can put in different spots on your deck. They can highlight certain areas or create a nice glow. These lights are great for
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Read the full post »Deck drainage systems protect your investment and make the most of your outdoor living areas. These systems can add years to your deck's life and create usable space underneath. Let's look at how you can install one yourself and explore the benefits, types, and installation process.
Key Takeaways: DIY Deck Drainage Systems
- Extends deck lifespan by 5-10 years
- 85% of deck failures due to poor water management
- Average installation time: 10-15 hours
- Can reduce lifetime costs by 30%
- 3 main types of deck drainage systems available
- Proper planning and material selection are crucial
- Regular maintenance ensures long-term effectiveness
- DIY installation can lead to significant cost savings
Why Install a Deck Drainage System?
Water is a deck's worst enemy. Without proper drainage, moisture can seep into the wood, causing rot, mold, and structural damage. A good drainage system keeps your deck dry and extends its lifespan by 5-10 years. Plus, it turns the area under your deck into a dry, usable space perfect for storage or even an extra outdoor room.
Here's why a deck drainage system is a smart move:
- Proper drainage can extend deck lifespan by 5-10 years - 85% of deck failures are due to improper water management - Installation typically takes 10-15 hours for an average-sized deck - Regular maintenance can reduce deck costs by up to 30% over its lifetime
A well-installed drainage system can increase your property value and enhance the overall functionality of your outdoor space. It allows you to utilize the area beneath your deck, effectively doubling your usable outdoor area. This can be particularly beneficial for homes with limited
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Read the full post »Living in the city often means dealing with limited outdoor space. But that doesn't mean you can't have a beautiful and functional deck! Here are some smart solutions for making the most of your urban outdoor area, turning it into a cozy retreat or an entertainment hub that uses every inch wisely.
Key Takeaways for Small Space Deck Design
Clever Deck Ideas for Small Urban Spaces
- Use vertical space wisely with wall-mounted planters and vertical privacy screens
- Choose multi-functional furniture like storage benches and folding tables
- Add built-in storage with under-deck compartments and hollow seating units
- Pick space-saving railings such as slim cable railings or glass panels
- Use lighting to create ambiance with string lights and LED strip lighting
1. Making the Most of Vertical Space
When you're short on square footage, think up! Vertical space is your friend in small urban decks. Wall-mounted planters are a great way to add some greenery without taking up precious floor space. You can grow herbs, flowers, or even small vegetables right on your deck walls. Consider creating a living wall with a variety of plants to add texture and color to your outdoor space.
Privacy screens that extend upwards are another smart use of vertical space. They not only give you some shelter from prying eyes but can also add a decorative touch to your deck. Check out these decorative screen panels that can add both privacy and style to your space. These screens can also serve as a backdrop for climbing plants, further enhancing your vertical garden.
-
Read the full post »1. Introduction: The Importance of Innovative Lighting for Commercial Decks
Proper lighting is crucial for commercial outdoor spaces. It's not just about making things look nice - it's about safety, creating the right mood, and saving energy. These days, businesses are looking for smart ways to light up their decks that don't waste power or money.
Let's look at some cool new lighting ideas that can make your commercial deck shine. We'll cover everything from hidden lights to solar-powered options. These aren't just any old lights - they're designed to make your deck look amazing while being kind to your wallet and the planet.
Key Takeaways: DIY Deck Drainage Systems
- LED recessed lights offer sleek, energy-efficient illumination
- Smart rail systems provide customizable and controllable lighting
- Solar-powered options offer sustainable, cost-effective solution
- Step lights enhance safety
-
Read the full post »Deck lighting can make your outdoor space safer and more inviting. Smart systems give you control and customization options. Here are some popular smart deck lighting choices and their features.
Key Things to Know About Smart Deck Lighting
Smart Deck Lighting Systems
- Enhances safety and ambiance of outdoor spaces
- Uses LED technology for energy efficiency and long life
- Popular types: post cap lights, accent lights, light strips
- Key features: brightness levels, color options, weather resistance
- Smart home integration for easy control
- Post cap lights: mounted on railing posts, provide light and style
Types of Smart Deck Lights
Post Cap Lights
Post cap lights sit on top of deck railing posts. They light up the deck and add a nice touch to the railing design. These lights serve a dual purpose of illumination and decoration, enhancing the overall look of your deck. Check out our selection of post cap lights to see different styles that can complement your deck's aesthetic.
Accent Lights
Accent lights are small lights you can put in different spots on your deck. They can highlight certain areas or create a nice glow. These lights are great for
-
Read the full post »Deck drainage systems protect your investment and make the most of your outdoor living areas. These systems can add years to your deck's life and create usable space underneath. Let's look at how you can install one yourself and explore the benefits, types, and installation process.
Key Takeaways: DIY Deck Drainage Systems
- Extends deck lifespan by 5-10 years
- 85% of deck failures due to poor water management
- Average installation time: 10-15 hours
- Can reduce lifetime costs by 30%
- 3 main types of deck drainage systems available
- Proper planning and material selection are crucial
- Regular maintenance ensures long-term effectiveness
- DIY installation can lead to significant cost savings
Why Install a Deck Drainage System?
Water is a deck's worst enemy. Without proper drainage, moisture can seep into the wood, causing rot, mold, and structural damage. A good drainage system keeps your deck dry and extends its lifespan by 5-10 years. Plus, it turns the area under your deck into a dry, usable space perfect for storage or even an extra outdoor room.
Here's why a deck drainage system is a smart move:
- Proper drainage can extend deck lifespan by 5-10 years - 85% of deck failures are due to improper water management - Installation typically takes 10-15 hours for an average-sized deck - Regular maintenance can reduce deck costs by up to 30% over its lifetime
A well-installed drainage system can increase your property value and enhance the overall functionality of your outdoor space. It allows you to utilize the area beneath your deck, effectively doubling your usable outdoor area. This can be particularly beneficial for homes with limited