Planning Your Deck Project

Building a deck is one of the most rewarding DIY projects you can undertake. Not only does it add value to your home, but it creates an outdoor living space for years of enjoyment. However, choosing the right lumber is crucial for both the longevity and appearance of your deck.

Best Lumber Species for Decking

Western Red Cedar

Western Red Cedar is a popular choice for decking due to its natural beauty and resistance to decay and insects. Key benefits include:

• Natural oils provide resistance to moisture and insects
• Beautiful reddish color that can be maintained or allowed to weather to gray
• Lightweight and easy to work with
• Naturally stable with minimal warping
• Pleasant cedar aroma

Alaska Yellow Cedar

For those seeking premium decking material, Alaska Yellow Cedar offers exceptional durability:

• Superior rot and insect resistance
• Distinctive yellow color that weathers to elegant silver-gray
• Extremely stable and long-lasting
• Fine, tight grain for beautiful appearance
• Excellent for high-end outdoor projects

Pressure-Treated Lumber

For budget-conscious builders, pressure-treated lumber offers good value:

• Most affordable option for decking
• Treated for ground contact and moisture resistance
• Best for structural framing underneath
• Can be stained or painted after proper drying

Lumber Grades for Deck Building

Decking Boards

For visible deck surfaces, choose higher grades:

• Clear Grade: Best appearance, minimal defects, highest cost
• Select Grade: Good appearance with small, tight knots
• Common Grades: More defects but can add rustic character

Structural Framing

For joists, beams, and posts:

• Select Structural: Maximum strength for spans and loads
• No. 1 & Better: Excellent structural properties
• No. 2: Most common choice for deck framing

Calculating Lumber Needs

Decking Material

To calculate decking boards needed:

1. Measure deck length and width
2. Calculate square footage (length × width)
3. Add 10% for waste and cuts
4. Divide by coverage per board (varies by width)

Example: For a 12' × 16' deck (192 sq ft), using 5.5" wide boards:

• 192 sq ft + 10% waste = 211 sq ft needed
• 5.5" boards cover approximately 0.46 sq ft per linear foot
• Need approximately 460 linear feet of decking boards

Framing Material

For a typical deck, you'll need:

• Joists: 2×8 or 2×10, spaced 16" on center
• Rim/Band Board: Same dimension as joists
• Ledger Board: Same dimension as joists
• Posts: 4×4 or 6×6 for support
• Beams: Double 2×8, 2×10, or larger

Essential Tools and Fasteners

Tools You'll Need

• Circular saw or miter saw
• Drill with bits and drivers
• Level (4-foot minimum)
• Speed square
• Chalk line
• Tape measure
• Post level

Fasteners

• Deck screws: Stainless steel or coated, 2.5" for decking
• Joist hangers: Galvanized with appropriate nails
• Carriage bolts: For beam-to-post connections
• Lag screws: For ledger board attachment

Step-by-Step Building Process

1. Design and Planning

• Check local building codes and permit requirements
• Create detailed plans with dimensions
• Mark utility lines before digging
• Choose lumber species and calculate materials

2. Foundation and Framing

• Install footings and posts
• Attach ledger board to house
• Install beam and rim board
• Install joists with proper spacing

3. Decking Installation

• Start with full board along house
• Maintain consistent gaps (1/8" to 1/4")
• Pre-drill near board ends
• Stagger joints for better appearance

4. Finishing Touches

• Install railings if required
• Sand rough edges
• Apply stain or sealant if desired
• Clean up job site

Maintenance Tips

To keep your deck looking great and lasting longer:

• Clean annually: Use deck cleaner and soft brush
• Inspect regularly: Look for loose fasteners or damaged boards
• Reapply finish: Every 2-3 years for stained decks
• Keep gutters clean: Prevent water damage to nearby deck areas
• Trim vegetation: Maintain airflow around deck

Why Choose West Wind Forest Products

When planning your deck project, West Wind Forest Products offers several advantages:

• Quality lumber: We carefully grade all our lumber
• Competitive pricing: Direct-from-mill pricing saves you money
• Expert advice: Our team can help you choose the right materials
• Custom milling: Special dimensions available upon request
• Overstock deals: Higher grades at lower prices