# Facts About Decks
-
Wood
-
Homeowners often choose wood for their decking material since it has a natural look that connects the space with the outdoors. Two types of wood usually provide the lumber for backyard decks. Naturally durable species, such as cedar and redwood, have a strong resistance to disease and insect damage, making them an excellent decking material. Homeowners also have the option of using pressure-treated wood. In this process, wood that is not naturally durable, such as pine, undergoes treatment with preservative chemicals to improve its resistance to decay.
Non-Wood
-
Retail outlets also offer decking made from materials other than wood. Composite lumber and all-plastic lumber make up the main alternatives. Composite decking consists of plastic and a fiber, such as saw dust. All-plastic lumber consists of plastic and a few additives, such as pigments for color. Composite decks look much more like traditional wooden decks and do not need any type of finish. An all-plastic deck has the advantage of needing very little maintenance. However, the sun tends to fade the colors from the plastic over time, and some all-plastic decks retain too much heat in hot weather, making them difficult to walk on barefoot.
Permit
-
Many localities in the United States require a building permit for the addition of an outdoor deck, particularly when the deck is more than 30 inches from the ground or attached to your home. Obtaining a building permit typically involves paying a fee. The fee covers the cost of reviewing your plans and any site inspections after construction begins. Always check with your local building department before starting any major home improvement projects.
Railings
-
Railings ensure that young children playing on the deck do not injure themselves. Deck railings should cover the entire deck and reach at least 36 inches high. Spacing of the rails must prevent children from squeezing through or getting their heads stuck. To prevent accidents, home improvement expert Don Vandervort advises placing rails no more than 2-3/8 inches apart.
-
