Pressure Treated Wood

Pressure-treated wood is wood used specifically for construction purposes that have been infused with preservative chemicals designed to protect the wood from rot and insect infestation. The boards after being treated with those chemicals are placed in a pressurized tank that removes the air pockets in the fibers of the boards and replaces it with the preservatives. The most important aspect of the pressurizing chemical treatment is the most effective way to avoid harmful rot and insects from affecting the wood but does not prevent weathering and corrosion. It will slow down the process of weathering and corrosion, but will not prevent it altogether. 

What are the benefits of pressure treated deck boards?

The key benefit of pressure treated decking boards is that they are made to withstand weathering that natural untreated boards would. Although the chemicals applied to the boards is a sealant in itself, you do still need to annually or bi-annually seal the decking surface boards to maintain the properties that repel decay. The chemicals baked into the wood fibers during the pressurization process are meant to prevent insects, rotting, and decay from happening to the boards when exposed to the elements outside. While most who choose to install pressure-treated wood for the natural oxidation look of the boards over time, they’re also able to take stain and deck-specific paint to change the color over time. 

How long will a pressure treated deck last?

The amount of time a pressure treated deck will last is subject to a lot of variables. The answer to this question will be provided assuming the concept of lasting is being used in relation to not rotting, disintegrating, or falling apart. The simplest answer is if your deck was built right and you maintain it properly as recommended, on average you should see about 15 years out of your deck. The factors that cause variation in this lifespan is weather, conditions, build quality, and maintenance, with only one of those being in your control. 

The maintenance required to ensure you see the longest life possible out of your deck is fairly simple, but it is also time-consuming. It comes down to making sure your wood surface is properly sealed and always clear of snow, ice, leaves and water collection. Whether you use a sealant or a stain, it’s important the treatment is done regularly every year. Think of your wood fibers like a sponge. If the sponge is saturated, it won’t be able to take on more liquid because the fibers are full, which is the same concept when considering your deck boards being exposed to the elements. The sealant or stain applied to the surface penetrates the wood fibers, filling them to capacity and creating a surface barrier from additional moisture also penetrating. Throughout the seasons, your wood fibers expand and contract, breaking up the soaked in sealant or stain, causing that protective barrier to weaken and allow water to seep in. Over time your fibers will become more and more invaded by moisture damage and break down the fibers all together causing mold and rot to occur.

It is important to take into account the climate in which your pressure treated deck is being built. In the south, pressure treated decks are not recommended. Not only will the extended amount of time UV rays are beating down on the surface shorten the lifespan and durability but humidity will also be its worst enemy. Consistent humid and hot weather will without a doubt cause the fibers of wood to break down much more quickly. On a similar note, midwestern climates with icy, frigid winters and hot, humid summers will also see a shorter than average use of their wood deck. It’s not to say that you should not have a pressure treated deck in those regions, but expect to take on higher demand for maintenance.

Cedar Wood Deck Builder

When thinking about the look and budget for your new outdoor deck, many homeowners consider cedar decking. Platinum Decking, a “decking company near me” builds both with composite, cedar and pressure-treated lumber, and knows the important pros and cons. When considering cedar decking, you should know about a few factors before making your decision. We’ll start with the pros to surfacing your deck with cedar decking.

First, cedar decking is aesthetically beautiful in its early years. Many homeowners would agree that while there are different benefits to high-end composite, there is nothing that looks like a more clean and natural space than a cedar deck. High-quality cedar can be smooth the touch for decking, or rough cut to add character. Secondly, cedar decking is cost-effective on the initial deck installation cost when compared to composite decking. Trex Enhance has comparative pricing to cedar, but by and large, it will be less expensive than many composite decking lines. Thirdly, if well-maintained annually, the deck can last up to 15 years without failing boards or popping screws.

Wood Deck Maintenance and Wood Deck Repair

Should I stain or seal my wood pressure treated deck?

Wood decks do need a protective coating to last longer. A stain will soak into the wood and protect it. In addition, the paint will also protect the wood but sit on top of the wood. In the long run, wood will need repairs or to be replaced. With Chicago weather, wood decks are not lasting as long as homeowners would like. It makes sense to investigate finding a deck builder or deck contractor and having a composite deck installed. Composite decks will last longer and do not require the same maintenance as a wood deck.

Different Grades of Wood

Wood deck- Quality materials

Is #1 or #2 Lumber Better?

# 2-grade lumber is almost exclusively used for framing and other non-visible construction projects. There are few defects in the lumber itself, and unlike # 1-grade lumber, knots are generally allowed. # 1-grade lumber, in contrast, has tight restrictions on knots. Because of this, the overall appearance of # 1-grade lumber is much more aesthetically pleasing. You can expect fewer defects, if any, in # 1-grade lumber compared to #2 grade. Additionally, # 1-grade lumber is stronger than # 2-grade lumber.

Debating whether one is better than the other comes down to what they are being used for. For example, if you are getting a 1st-story deck built, there is a small likelihood that you will ever see the frame. In this case, # 2-grade lumber will be your best option – you will never see its appearance, and the strength difference between #1 and #2 grades will not extend the life of your deck in any meaningful way. On the flip side, if a 2nd or 3rd story deck frame is being built, #1 grade may be a better option. If there is a patio or space underneath used for entertainment, better-looking lumber would be worthwhile. # 1-grade lumber is also applicable if you are on a coast or shoreline and could benefit from the extra strength and stiffness.

Deck Pergola

A deck pergola can be an excellent addition to your new deck in the Chicagoland area. When looking at different deck pergola options, we highly recommend the Trex deck pergola.

Trex Pergola

Many homeowners want to install something overhead to keep their deck cool, even in the hot summer months. When it comes to privacy, shade, and cover, Trex pergola provides many unique, functional and beautiful options.

Trex pergola is made of reinforced aluminum cellular PVC, which means it is resistant to warping, rot, termites, and splitting. Like Trex decking boards, Trex pergola is warrantied for 25 years for residential projects and 10 years for commercial projects.

Trex pergolas are chosen by homeowners mainly because of their design, color options, and overall beauty. The use of Trex’s “ColorLast paint process,” you may purchase your pergola in a variety of different colors to match or complement the space below. There are seven different base designs, with custom options available for even the most ambitious project. While “Trex Pergola” gives you a more traditional look, “Trex Pergola Balance” features a more modern finish and built-in retractable awning. “Trex Pergola Element” is an all-aluminum option with wider-than-usual overhead stringers, giving a more complete shade without an additional awning. “Trex Pergola Air,” as the name suggests, is a sleeker option than others, providing less overhead cover and more retractable options. 

Is Trex Decking recycled?

Surfacing your deck with Trex composite boards is one of the most eco-friendly options. Trex is one of the largest plastic recyclers in America, by saving more than 500 million pounds of plastic and wood from landfills annually. Their composite boards are 95% recycled plastic and wood, with the remaining 5% being necessary binding agents.  This ingenuity provides a unique and innovative way to take part in sustainable manufacturing.

For example: The average 16-foot Trex board contains recycled material from approximately 2,250 plastic bags. As noted on their website, Trex runs through a few examples of how much of an impact just one composite deck can make on waste-management and the environment. For more information visit this page on the TREX website: https://www.trex.com/why-trex/eco-friendly-decking/

Trex RainEscape

If your outdoor plans include a 2nd or 3rd story deck in back, you should consider the space beneath it. Many homeowners ask a local contractor to include a patio or screened-in porch for more opportunities to entertain or spend time outside. This area needs to be dry, no matter what the weather is – but with a deck and its openings overhead, how do you achieve this?

A great option is Trex RainEscape. The process for installing them is more time-consuming than other parts of a deck project, but the product is effective. Firstly, funneled openings called downspouts are placed at the end of the deck, attached to each joist. Secondly, a flexible material acting as the “trough” is rolled, cut, and laid over each joist. Using RainEscape Tape, each trough is attached, acting as a rain catch in between each joist. Installed properly, there should be no openings for water to get through. Finally, a gutter is installed that runs down the house and into the backyard or area where the deck is ending, funneling the water out just as a house gutter would. 

As you can see, anytime it rains or snows, the water will funnel down the troughs and exit through the downspout openings. These downspouts then funnel to a central horizontal gutter, that connects to a downspout on the side of the house, positing the water outside the left or right corner of your deck. Your space below will be dry, allowing for three-season rooms, patios and more to be functional year-round.

Other products and processes can be necessary while installing RainEscape as well. Applying flashing around each 4×4 post in the deck frame and caulking certain areas to ensure perfect seals are two examples of ways to ensure the project lasts a long time. Homeowners may want to add “flash tape” in between joists, or having a can light for dark work conditions are examples of options to ensure perfection. Your local deck builder can help you decide what is the best combination of RainEscape materials for your project.

Why Install Trex RainEscapes?

When you have your local decking company install RainEscapes on the underside of your deck, the space underneath suddenly has a variety of uses. When making your vision a reality for the space, consider all the different ways you can benefit from Trex RainEscape under your deck. 

First, many families are blessed with a cook (or two.) Rain or shine, grilling and the use of other appliances are a breeze with the benefit of Trex RainEscape overhead. Homeowners can use any of the three utilities and can now entertain and serve cuisine to friends and family in a whole new way!

Leapfrogging off of utilities – the use of electricity is a big win thanks to Trex RainEscape. Homeowners can now wire and use anything electrical with no threat of rain or snow. Ask your local deck contractor what they recommend, and consider all of the different options with electricity utilities in your space.

Light it up! Ceiling lights, wall lights, string lights and more can be installed to distinguish your space. This can make your space feel significantly more finished, and allow you to use it regardless of whether the sun is up. The use of unique lights and placement can set your space apart from the rest. 

Take over the temperature. If you envision using your space for all four seasons, ceiling fans, heaters, and more can be installed by a local contractor to allow a comfortable area for your family 24/7, while still feeling outdoors.

Nothing is cooler than having entertainment for family and friends and family to enjoy – even when rain tries to disrupt the party for an hour or two! Hook up your biggest TV to enjoy the big game. Hook up the gaming console and have your children hang out and scream OUTSIDE the house. Grab your favorite blu-ray and enjoy a movie in your space with crickets chirping in the background.

Clearly, Trex RainEscape allows you to furnish whatever space you have in mind. Whether it’s a simple patio to sip coffee on or a grand space for friends and family to love and enjoy, installing RainEscape will give you the ability to add whatever features you want with peace of mind.

First, many families are blessed with a cook (or two.) Rain or shine, grilling and the use of other appliances are a breeze with the benefit of Trex RainEscape overhead. Homeowners can use any of the three utilities and can now entertain and serve cuisine to friends and family in a whole new way!

Leapfrogging off of utilities – the use of electricity is a big win thanks to Trex RainEscape. Homeowners can now wire and use anything electrical with no threat of rain or snow. Ask your local deck contractor what they recommend, and consider all of the different options with electricity utilities in your space.

Light it up! Ceiling lights, wall lights, string lights and more can be installed to distinguish your space. This can make your space feel significantly more finished, and allow you to use it regardless of whether the sun is up. The use of unique lights and placement can set your space apart from the rest.