Is Cedar a Good Choice for Decks?

If you are looking to remodel your deck or construct one from scratch, it can be difficult to determine which material is best for your needs. As a leading provider of high-quality decking products, the team at Country Lumber knows that the materials you choose will have a massive impact on the durability, appearance, and maintenance requirements of your deck. If you are looking for a versatile and appealing material, cedar may be the best option for your project. To help you determine if cedar is a good choice for your deck, we have compiled a list of the advantages and potential disadvantages it provides.

Learn how to replace deck boards.

Advantages of Cedar

Ceder offers many advantages for decks including:

Durability

Cedar is an exceptionally durable wood that is naturally resistant to rot, decay, insect attacks, and moisture damage. This means that it typically lasts longer, needs less maintenance, and does not warp or split as easily as other lumber.

Versatility

With the ability to be sanded, stained, and finished in a variety of colours, cedar is a highly appealing decking option that can be customized to your precise preferences. Cedar is pitch and resin free, making it better for accepting and holding many different stains, bleaches, colours, and translucent finishes. Cedar is also available in many different dimensions, textures, and grades, further increasing its versatility.

Sustainability

If you are looking for a sustainable and eco-friendly decking material, cedar is a great option. It has a net negative greenhouse gas effect, is biodegradable, and highly sustainable as it is mostly produced from well-managed forests to ensure that there is a reliable supply available.

Affordability

While cedar is not considered a cheap option by any means, it has a lower cost than many other types of lumber. This allows you to reduce costs while maintaining a high level of quality and durability.

Potential Disadvantages of Cedar

While cedar is a great decking material, it can present a few disadvantages when compared to other types of lumber:

Easier to Damage

As a softer wood, cedar decking can be more easily scratched or dented by furniture, pet claws, and dropped items. While these forms of damage do not affect the overall durability of the deck, they can detract from its appeal.

Needs to be Stained or Sealed

Cedar needs to be regularly stained or sealed to protect it from rot or moisture damage. While you can leave cedar unstained for a rustic look, you will still need to seal it every few years to ensure lasting durability. This is especially true for ground-level decks or decks constructed in shaded areas.

To learn more about our selection of decking products or for assistance choosing the correct material for your deck, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products.

What to Consider Before Building a Deck

If you are considering building a deck for your backyard, there are many factors to consider before construction begins. Understanding what these factors are is crucial for ensuring that your deck is perfect for your home and family. From the location to your budget, every factor plays a vital role in determining how your deck will be constructed. As leading providers of decking products and quality materials, Country Lumber knows what it takes to build the perfect deck. That is why our team has provided some information on what to consider before building a deck to ensure the best possible results.

Learn how to replace deck boards.

5 Things to Consider When Building a Deck

Before building a deck, it is worth considering the following:

1. The Purpose and Function

While planning your deck, most of the design decisions you make will impact future elements and choices. To ensure that your design matches the function, it is important to think about the purpose of your deck. Whether it will be used for family dinners, entertaining, or an outdoor garden, this purpose should be determined before construction begins.

2. The Location

The location of your deck will vary greatly based on the size of your property and the layout of your home. If you have several placement options, you will need to consider a few different factors. The proximity of the deck to various home entrances, privacy options, and views will all influence the final location of your deck.

3. Total Budget

Your total budget will influence every aspect of your deck from the materials used to the final size. The amount of funds you have available will also determine if you will be building it by yourself or hiring a contractor to handle the job.

4. The Materials and Design

The materials used to construct your deck will have a substantial impact on the durability and design. From pressure-treated woods to premium hardwoods, there are many different materials to choose from based on their price and appearance. In addition to the materials used, your design will be impacted by the colour of your home, the size of your yard, your fence, and other elements.

5. Codes and Safety

Whether you are building your deck yourself or are hiring a contractor, it is worth learning about the relevant codes and permits required for the project. This can save you money and ensure that your deck is safe for you and your family.

To learn more about our selection of decking products and other materials, get in touch with the Country Lumber team. We can be reached at 604-533-4447 and are ready to answer any questions you may have.

How to Replace Deck Boards

If your deck is starting to show signs of wear or damage, it may be time to replace some of the boards. Also known as decking, common signs of damage include rotting, splitting, or warping of the wood. Each of these signs are unsightly and potentially unsafe if left unfixed. That is why it is important to have a plan to replace damaged deck boards as soon as possible. At Country Lumber, we know that it can be difficult to determine where to start when replacing deck boards. That is why our team of experts have created a guide outlining how to replace deck boards safely and effectively.

Steps for Replacing Deck Boards

When replacing deck boards, it is important to know the whole process before starting the job. This will ensure that the job is completed smoothly and in less time. To replace your decking, ensure that you have the required tools, then follow these steps:

1. Mark the Damaged Boards

Examine the deck and mark the locations of the damaged boards. Measure the portions of the board that will be removed to ensure that you are cutting the proper length for replacement decking. Ensure that these new pieces of lumber are supported at each end and by one joist.

2. Remove the Damaged Boards

Remove all nails or screws from the damaged boards or cut the damaged portions away from existing boards.

3. Seal any Joist Rot

Check the spaces under the removed decking for any rot. The lumber under the decking is known as the joist. If there is any rot on the joist, remove it and apply two coats of clear sealer to protect it.

4. Reinforce the Joist

After sealing the joist, it is recommended to reinforce it with another joist. Position the new joist tightly against the existing one and attach it with industrial nails or screws.

5. Secure Reinforcing Joist

Attach the reinforcing joist to the ledger and header joist. This will ensure that it remains secure when adding new decking.

6. Measure and Cut the new Decking

Use the measurements from the removed pieces of decking to cut new pieces. This new decking should fit snugly in the open space. If there is any cupping, position the decking with the convex/crowned side facing up. 

7. Finish the Wood

Stain or finish the wood to match your existing finish.

8. Install the new Decking

After the finish is set, install the new boards with galvanized screws or nails. Ensure that the replacement decking matches the size of the old boards.

Following these steps will ensure the safe replacement of damaged decking. For more information on decking or other lumber products, please reach out to the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached at 604-533-4447 or through our online contact form.

How to Waterproof a Deck

Rebuilding a deck can be expensive and time consuming, so it is important to ensure that your deck lasts as long as possible. One of the biggest challenges for wooden decks in British Columbia is the massive amount of rain that we tend to receive. In order to combat this abundance of moisture, it can help to know how to waterproof a deck. At Country Lumber, we provide a massive variety of different decking products for both construction and maintenance and we can help you to ensure your deck looks fresh and finished for years to come.

Different Deck Waterproofing Products

Over time, the finish on a wooden deck can wear off due to foot traffic, sunlight, and moisture. When this happens, the deck can start to rot or mould, and it can also become discoloured and unattractive. There are various products that will help you to waterproof your deck, and the product you should use will depend on the finished look that you are hoping to achieve. Some of the different products for waterproofing or sealing a deck include:

·      Stain

·      Solid stain

·      Paint

·      Wood protectors/wood preservatives/wood treatment solutions

·      Timber oil

·      Waterproof sealer

Waterproofing Your Deck

Once you have selected your deck sealing solution, the steps to waterproofing the deck are as follows:

1.     Prepare the Area Around the Deck

Make sure that you clear off any old furniture, plants, or other obstacles from the deck before beginning. It is also important to cover any plants that are located close to the deck to ensure that none of the waterproofing materials can harm your garden.

2.     Wash the Deck

Using a pressure washer or a hose and scrub brush, clean off the surface of the deck. Make sure to remove any debris or grease that might be stuck to the deck’s surface. If you are using a pressure washer, do not hold the nozzle too close to the deck’s surface or you could damage the wood. Ensure that you get in between the boards when cleaning by using a small brush or scraping tool.

3.     Sand the Deck Surface

Use a sander with medium grit sandpaper to sand down the deck. It is most important to smooth out rough patches, but you can sand the whole surface to improve the deck’s receptiveness to the new waterproofing treatment.

4.     Apply the New Deck Waterproofing Solution

The application process will differ depending on what kind of deck waterproofer or sealant solution you are using. Many solutions will require you to apply numerous coats for best results. It is also good to observe whether you can use a sprayer or if you should use a brush. In most cases, you should use a stain brush and apply at least two coats, leaving 12-24 hours between coats and making sure to get in all the cracks. Inspect the instructions that come with your waterproofing solution or consult with a professional for more information.

If you are interested in learning more about how to waterproof a deck, or if you would like to find out about any of the other services and supplies available from Country Lumber, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Benefits of Treated Lumber

One of the biggest issues with building with wood is that most types of wood have a limited lifespan when left out in the elements. Sun and moisture tend to take a toll on most types of lumber. In order to mitigate this issue, one of the most commonly used types of wood for outdoor construction or landscaping purposes is treated lumber. Treated lumber, also frequently called pressure treated lumber, uses intense pressure to force a chemical compound into the grain of the lumber that makes it resistant to rot and decay. At Country Lumber, we know when the benefits of treated lumber make it a necessity to use for building projects and our knowledgeable staff can help you to get the right type of wood for your upcoming project.

Advantages of Pressure Treated Lumber

Although treated lumber often costs more than natural wood, it is more than worth the extra money that it might cost in many circumstances. Some of the best reasons to use treated lumber for a project with exposure to the elements include:

Moisture Resistance

The best reason to use treated lumber is for its resistance to moisture. While most types of natural wood will absorb moisture and soften, treated lumber will repel moisture. Moisture in wood provides ground for many different microorganisms to grow and cause the wood to rot, so using treated lumber is a necessity in areas where moisture will be present, such as landscape features, decks, gazebos, bridges, and even docks and piers.

Resistance to Microorganisms

Pressure treated lumber is designed to repel moisture so that there is no ground for microorganisms to gain a footing on, but it is also designed to repel the microorganisms themselves. The chemical compounds used to treat lumber are all copper based in order to create an environment in which fungus, bacteria, and other microorganisms are unable to survive.

Insect Repellence

Insects such as carpenter ants or termites can cause big problems for wood structures, especially if the wood is prone to moisture. Many types of treated wood are designed to repel insect activity. Not only can treated lumber repel insects that can cause structural damage, but it can also work to keep bugs that are a nuisance, such as spiders, from becoming a problem.

If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of treated lumber, or if you would like to find out about any of the other services and supplies available from Country Lumber, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

How to Lay Concrete Pavers

If you are looking into putting in a patio on your property using pavers, it can be useful to get some pointers from people who have experience with this kind of work so that you do not run into difficulties. At Country Lumber, we provide a variety of concrete products and other patio products and our team is always happy to offer advice on how to lay concrete pavers. 

Steps for Laying Concrete Pavers

When installed properly, concrete pavers can make for a beautiful, stable patio but, if not installed correctly, the pavers can be unstable and unsightly. The steps for installing concrete pavers are as follows:

1.     Excavate the Area

Mark off the area where you intend to lay your pavers using rope, sticks, or marking paint. The area within the lines that you have marked will need to be excavated in order to keep your pavers from resting too high off the ground. Dig out 7 to 9 inches from the surface, depending on the thickness of the pavers you are using, and level the ground at the bottom as much as possible.

2.     Lay a Base

The base material used underneath concrete pavers should be gravel. The gravel should be about 3 to 6 inches deep. Once the gravel base is laid, it will need to be compacted to ensure that it is level and does not settle after the pavers are installed.

3.     Lay Sand

Bedding sand should be laid on top of the gravel to provide a stable, level surface on which to install the pavers. The sand should be somewhat loose but perfectly level when the pavers are being placed.

4.     Install the Concrete Pavers

Starting at one corner, begin to lay the concrete pavers. Work your way across the patio space one row at a time. Lightly compact your pavers as you go.

5.     Firmly Compact the Pavers

Make sure that each paver is securely in place by compacting all of the pavers firmly once you have placed the entire patio. Ensure that there are no proud edges on any of the pavers that could become a tripping hazard.

6.     Add Sand

Pour sand across the top of the pavers and try to get as much of it between the pavers as possible. This will help to keep them from shifting. If you use polymeric sand, it can help to prevent weeds from growing up between the concrete pavers. Sweep off the excess sand and spray down the patio with a hose.

If you would like to learn more about how to lay concrete pavers, or if you would like to find out about any of the other services and supplies available from Country Lumber, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

What Supplies are Needed to Pour a Concrete Patio?

Spring and summer are the ideal times to do home improvement projects on your home’s exterior. If you have a concrete patio that needs to be redone or if you have the space for a patio and want to install one while the weather is suitable for pouring cement, it is useful to know what supplies are needed to pour a concrete patio. At Country Lumber, we provide a wide range of supplies for all kinds of building projects, including concrete supplies and tools.

Concrete Pouring Supplies

Pouring a concrete patio can be a messy and frustrating job even with the right tools, so it is important to make sure that you have everything prepared for the job to go as smoothly as possible. Some of the supplies that you will need to pour a concrete patio include:

Concrete

The type of concrete that you will require will depend on a variety of factors, as there are many different types of ready mix concrete available. Consult a building professional to find the right type for your project.

Rebar, Wire Mesh, and Tie Wire

In order to keep your patio from cracking and shifting, you will need concrete mesh, rebar, and tie wire to hold it all in place.

Wood for Forms

Unless you are using premade concrete forms, you will need to purchase 2x4 or 2x6 boards to build forms for your concrete patio. If your patio only consists of one slab, you will only need to purchase enough wood to frame the outside edge of the patio.

Concrete Mixer

You will need a mixer to create the concrete you use for your patio and to prevent your cement from hardening while you pour the different sections of the patio.

Shovels, Rakes, and Wheelbarrows

In order to place your concrete, you will need a wheelbarrow and tools to move it across the surface being used. Shovels and rakes can be used to spread the concrete once it has been poured.

Screeds, Floats, and Trowels

Once your concrete patio is poured, you will need various tools to flatten it and shape it. A screed is a large, straight, flat device (which can also be a 2x4) used to flatten the surface of your concrete patio, and floats and trowels are used to touch up the edges and rough spots.

If you would like to learn more about what supplies are needed to pour a concrete patio, or if you would like to find out about any of the other services and supplies available from Country Lumber, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Surrey Composite Decking Designs

There is a massive variety of different types of decking and, at Country Lumber, we provide many of these types of decking materials. The different decking types have various benefits and are well suited to different climates. In the Surrey area, one of the best types of decking materials to work with is composite decking due to its durability, longevity, variety, attractiveness, and its ability to stand up to changing weather patterns. For this reason, it can be useful to be aware of some different ideas for Surrey composite decking designs.

Composite Decking Design Ideas for Surrey Homes

With the high amounts of both moisture and sunshine that are common in Surrey, it is important to get a type of decking that is long lasting, resistant to rot, and low maintenance. Composite decking is the ideal candidate to meet these needs and, with the massive variety of colours and aesthetics that are available, it is possible to create many different deck designs. Some design ideas for composite decking include:

Multiple Colours

With composite decking materials, it is possible to create a deck that uses multiple colours to stand out from other monochromatic decks in your Surrey neighbourhood. By using a regular brown wood look for the majority of the deck and using grey or a darker or lighter brown for the trim and stairs, you can create a unique, interesting look for your backyard.

Bent Boards

Give your deck a rounded edge by using bent composite decking boards. Composite boards are much easier to bend than wood and can be bent much more quickly, as they only require the proper application of heat. If you have your heart set on a round deck for your Surrey home, it is worth going with composite decking.

Masonry or Faux Masonry Trim

While it can be expensive to use masonry for the entirety of a deck, it is possible to build a deck out of composite materials and then use masonry for the trim and side panelling. There are also many types of faux masonry that look great and can be used for the same purpose.

If you would like to learn more about Surrey composite decking designs and where to find the supplies needed to get started with a decking project, or if you would like to find out about any of the other services and supplies available from Country Lumber, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

What is the Best Material to Use for a Deck in BC?

Whether you are building a second story deck or a ground level patio, knowing the best material to use for a deck in BC can help to ensure that your outdoor living space lasts as long as possible and looks incredible. At Country Lumber, we provide a wide variety of deck building materials that can significantly improve the curb appeal of your home.

Decking Materials in BC

There are many different materials that can be used to build a sturdy, reliable deck and some of these materials are more suited than others for life in British Columbia. With the amount of rain and moisture that we receive in the Vancouver area, it is important to make sure that your deck is able to stand up to mould and rot. Some of the best types of deck materials that can be used in BC include:

Pressure-Treated Wood

The most commonly used type of deck material in BC is pressure-treated wood. Pressure-treated wood is reasonably inexpensive and lasts much longer than most other types of wood. It is designed for use in outdoor situations and has a brown or green finish that repels water for a little while; however, it will need to be recoated with stain annually and repainted or refinished every three years in order to resist rotting.

Cedar

Cedar decks are known for their beauty and natural aesthetic. Because of cedar’s ability to resist the elements and maintain its good looks over time, it is frequently used in outdoor applications in BC. Cedar is more expensive than pressure-treated wood but it is still generally affordable, and it looks better, lasts longer, and requires less maintenance than pressure-treated wood.

Composite Decking

Composite decking comes in a massive variety of styles, hardness ratings, and finishes. This means that the price and quality of this type of decking can vary greatly depending on the manufacturer; however, composite decking is typically incredibly reliable and low maintenance, and it resists moisture better than most other types of decking material, which makes it ideal for BC homes.

To find out more information about the best material to use for a deck in BC, or if you would like to learn more about any of our products or services, contact Country Lumber or visit our store in Langley to speak with one of our representatives.