Wood Deck Installation

The Timeless Appeal of Wood Decks

Nothing matches the natural beauty and warmth of real wood. Wood decks have been the standard for outdoor living for decades because they look great, feel comfortable underfoot, and blend naturally with your landscaping. The organic grain patterns and rich colors of wood create an inviting outdoor space that feels like an extension of nature.

Wood decking also offers incredible versatility. You can stain it any color you want, from natural tones that highlight the grain to bold colors that make a statement. As your tastes change, you can always change the color with a fresh coat of stain. This flexibility lets your deck evolve with your style.

For homeowners in Horizon West who appreciate traditional materials and do not mind some maintenance, wood decking delivers unbeatable aesthetics at an affordable price. The initial cost of wood decking is typically 30% to 50% less than composite alternatives, making it accessible for more homeowners.

Choosing the Right Wood for Your Deck

Not all wood is the same. Different species offer different benefits, and choosing the right wood for your deck affects how it looks, how long it lasts, and how much maintenance it needs. Here are the wood options we install most often.

Pressure-Treated Pine

This is the most popular choice for deck building, and for good reason. Pressure-treated pine is affordable, widely available, and treated with preservatives that resist rot and insects. With proper maintenance, a pressure-treated deck can last 15 years or more.

The wood starts out with a greenish tint from the treatment process, but it weathers to a natural gray over time. Most homeowners stain their pressure-treated decks to achieve the color they want and provide additional protection from the elements.

Cedar

Cedar costs more than pressure-treated pine but offers natural rot and insect resistance without chemical treatments. Cedar has a distinctive reddish-brown color and pleasant aroma. The wood is lighter weight than pine, making it easier to work with.

Cedar also stays cooler in the sun than other woods, which is a real benefit in Florida. Your bare feet will thank you on hot summer days. Cedar requires regular sealing to maintain its color and prevent weathering to gray.

Redwood

Redwood is a premium choice with natural beauty and excellent durability. The rich red color and straight grain make redwood decks truly stunning. Like cedar, redwood naturally resists rot and insects.

The main drawback is cost. Redwood is significantly more expensive than other options and can be harder to find. However, if budget is not your primary concern and you want a truly beautiful wood deck, redwood delivers exceptional results.

Our Installation Process

Installing a wood deck correctly is critical for safety and longevity. We follow best practices at every step to ensure your deck is built right. Here is what you can expect when you hire us for your wood deck installation.

First, we design your deck to meet your needs and comply with local building codes. We obtain all necessary permits before starting work. Proper permitting protects you and ensures your deck is built to safety standards.

Next, we install the foundation. This typically involves digging holes for posts and pouring concrete footings. The foundation must be solid because it supports everything above it. We space footings properly and make sure posts are perfectly plumb.

Then we build the frame using pressure-treated lumber for all structural components. Even if you choose cedar or redwood for your decking, the frame should always be pressure-treated for maximum durability. We use proper joist spacing and install blocking for added strength.

Finally, we install the decking boards, railings, and stairs. We pay attention to details like board spacing for drainage and expansion, proper fastener placement, and smooth finishes. The result is a beautiful deck that is built to last.

Maintaining Your Wood Deck

Wood decks need regular maintenance to stay beautiful and last as long as possible. The good news is that deck maintenance is not difficult, and the results are worth the effort. Here is what you need to know about caring for your wood deck.

• Clean your deck annually with a deck cleaner and soft brush to remove dirt and mildew
• Apply fresh stain or sealer every 2 to 3 years to protect the wood from moisture and UV damage
• Sweep your deck regularly to prevent debris from trapping moisture
• Trim vegetation around your deck to improve air circulation and reduce moisture
• Check for popped nails or loose boards and fix them promptly
• Inspect your deck annually for signs of rot or damage

If maintenance sounds like more work than you want to take on, we offer professional deck staining and sealing services. We can handle the yearly or biannual maintenance for you, so your deck stays protected without you having to do the work.

Wood Deck Design Options

Wood decks offer endless design possibilities. Here are some popular options to consider for your Horizon West home:

Board pattern makes a big difference in appearance. Straight decking running parallel to your house is the most common and economical option. Diagonal decking adds visual interest and can make small decks look larger. Picture frame borders create a polished, finished look around the perimeter.

Multi-level decks work well on sloped yards or when you want to create distinct areas for different activities. You might have one level for dining and another for lounging, separated by a few steps.

Built-in features like benches, planters, or a drink rail add function and character to your deck. These elements can be stained to match or contrast with your decking for custom looks.

Railing styles dramatically affect your deck's appearance. Traditional vertical pickets, horizontal cable railings, or decorative balusters each create a different aesthetic. We help you choose railings that complement your home's architecture.

Why Homeowners Choose Wood

Despite the growth of composite decking, many homeowners still prefer real wood. The authentic look and feel cannot be perfectly replicated by synthetic materials. Wood also costs less upfront, which matters when you are working with a specific budget.

Wood is also easier to customize. If you want to add a deck feature later or make changes, working with wood is straightforward. You can cut it, drill it, and modify it with basic tools. Making changes to composite decks is more complicated.

For homeowners who enjoy working on their property, maintaining a wood deck can be satisfying. You get to refresh your deck's appearance every few years and make choices about color and finish. This hands-on aspect appeals to many people.

If you are ready to add a beautiful wood deck to your Horizon West home, we would love to help. Our experienced team has built hundreds of wood decks throughout the area. We know how to work with different wood species and can guide you to the best choices for your situation. Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions