When it comes to deck building, there are many different designs and materials that you can look into whenever you are building a deck. One of the top designs and materials for deck building is a pergola. A pergola is a structure that has columns which support rafters, beams and stringers. Pergolas can come in a variety of different materials and designs. They are commonly used to help enhance outdoor living spaces such as decks. They are also built to provide shade and provide additional space for activities such as dining.

Those who are interested in building pergolas will want to work with a reputable deck contractor Plano. With the services of a deck contractor Plano, homeowners can receive assistance from a professional who can evaluate the property and make recommendations on which design and material to use when looking to build this unique structure on their home.

TYPES OF PERGOLAS
There are many different types of pergolas that one can build on their property. Each of these designs contains their own unique materials and advantages. With the right type of pergolas, homeowners can make their home more appealing and comfortable.

• Wood
One of the materials for pergolas is wood which is the most common material used for this structure. This material is ideal for wood decks as it is the made out of the same material. As a result, wood pergolas best compliment wood decks in terms of appearance and function.

• Aluminum
Another common material used for building pergolas is aluminum. This is a material made out of metal which is highly customizable. Aluminum pergolas are ideal for building on concrete patios and some decks made out of the most durable wood. This type of material is beneficial for residents who live in wet and rainy climates.

• Steel
Steel is arguably the most durable material available for pergolas. It is made out of a very strong metal which can withstand the elements with ease. Similar to aluminum pergolas, steel ones are ideal for building on the ground. However, they can be used on wooden decks as well. Steel pergolas are most commonly built on commercial properties.

DESIGNS
As well as different types of materials for pergolas, there are also a couple of designs. The two designs of pergolas are freestanding and attached. Both of these designs can benefit property owners and give them a durable structure to enjoy.

• Freestanding
One of the main designs for pergolas is freestanding. This type of design is an individual structure that is built on either a deck, a patio or a courtyard. It is not attached to the home or any other building. Freestanding pergolas function as their own separate structure.

• Attached
Attached pergolas are just like freestanding pergolas but are attached to a home or building. They are usually built to compliment another property and provide an addition to it. However, they can be just as beneficial as freestanding pergolas.

BENEFITS
Pergolas provide many benefits to homeowners and those who own commercial buildings. These benefits help property owners make their property look better as well as provide additional protection and space.

• Protection
Pergolas provide protection from the elements. With pergolas, property owners can receive protection form things such as rain, snow and sunlight. They can also protect people from falling debris as well.

• Shade
With pergolas, property owners can enjoy a shaded area. Pergolas offer shade to people who sit under them. Whether you are on a deck or on the concrete, pergolas can provide you with a place to avoid the sunlight and stay cool.

• Added Value
With the addition of pergolas, property owners can make their home or building look better. Pergolas add another feature to a property which will make it more appealing to prospective buyers. Since this is an additional structure, it will also provide more value to the property.

• More Space
All of the pergolas and designs also provide more space for people as well. They can be used to provide a durable structure for an outdoor dining area or patio.

It can be a joy to invest in the charm of your outdoor space at home. That's why it can be such a smart idea to go for a deck building project. If you want to keep your residential deck in tiptop condition, then you should seriously think about deck weatherproofing it without any delay. It's critical to take care of decks of all kinds. If you want to master taking care of wood decks and anything else similar, there are various strategies that may come in handy for you.

Clean Your Deck

If you want to safeguard your beloved deck from the harsh elements, then you should clean it regularly. Sweep dirt and dust off your deck. You should meticulously do away with any and all indications of twigs and leaves. Make sure these things are nowhere near the boards of your deck.

Get Your Hands on a Deck Stain That's of Top-Notch Quality

Use of a trusted deck stain can safeguard your investment from all of the hassles of unpredictable environmental factors. You should put a stain directly onto the boards of your deck.

Rely on a Deck Sealant

If you're passionate about keeping your beloved deck safe from intense rainfall and all sorts of headache-inducing weather situations, then the assistance of a dependable deck sealant may go a long way for you. A sealant can keep moisture far away from any deck. That's how it can stop water from making its way deep down and doing a number on everything. Don't ever forget that moisture that's undesired can make places a lot more susceptible to the development of nasty and persistent mold. People who own wood decks may have concerns that involve unsightly rotting. If you're committed to keeping your deck in fine working order for as long a stretch of time as possible, then the help of a deck sealant can be absolutely priceless.

Zero in on Wood Scrubbing

You may be able to keep a wood deck in pristine condition by zeroing in on scrubbing work. After you've taken debris and soil off of your deck, then you should clean the top part of it. It's fine if you do not have an existing cleaning formula, too. All you need is the combination of water and bleach. If you scour your deck in a careful manner, then you may be able to do away with any and all hints of mildew or algae development. A little bit of in-depth wood scouring can help you keep your deck sparkling and lovely.

Are you searching for professional deck building aficionados who can make all of your outdoor space wishes come to fruition? When you need a deck contractor Plano, Texas property owners can back, then you need the hard-working and diligent Plano Deck Contractors team. Call our affable staff as soon as you get the chance to make an appointment with a deck contractor Plano can applaud.

When you want a deck that won't require much maintenance, you will want to have composite decking put up. It will not fade quickly, and it will not be susceptible to insects or anything that would ruin a wooden deck. It will hold up well for a decade or a few decades, and you will like how little work you have to do to maintain it. If you want your deck building to be done without any worries about the work you will need to do for it now or in the future, then you will want us to build a composite deck for you.

Hire the deck contractor Plano you can trust to give you a great deck that will look good and last a long time, and that will also charge a good price for it. You don't have to worry about the composite decking cost when you have us put it in because we will be fair about it. The composite decking cost is a bit more than the average wood deck, but it stands up so much better to the elements and will not need to be cared for all of the time like a wooden fence, and it may save you money in the long run because of that.

When you are tired of your current deck and need a deck replacement to be done, you will want to get composite decking put in because it is a good choice for the environment. It is made from recycled materials, and you can feel good about using it because of that. It will be great to use eco friendly decking solutions because then you won't feel guilty about getting the deck replaced. You can have us build as large of a deck as you want with the eco friendly decking solutions, and you will look forward to using it.

When you want eco friendly decking that will hold up well to the sun, rain, insects, and all of the things that are a factor in the outdoors, you can use us as your deck contractor Plano to get it built. We know all about deck building and how to do it right to give you a deck that is a great shape and just where you want it to be. We can quickly tear out your old deck and give you something much better if you need a deck replacement. You will love the deck we will give you and how good you will feel about what you are doing for the environment by getting eco friendly decking.

You’ve decided to add fencing to your property, but are unsure of what to do. Some questions are what type of fence, where to put it, and how to get it done. If the job is more than $500, you need a licensed fencing contractor. You are in luck since Fencing Contractor Plano is a full-service company that helps you through the entire project.

Fencing Contractor Plano handles installation, maintenance, and repair. They respond quickly, visit your property, and listen to your needs. You will receive ideas and options for what works on your land.

There are different types of fencing available: wood, metal, vinyl, wrought iron, and privacy. The type you choose depends on your needs.

Wood Fencing
A wood fence provides a natural look. They are environmentally friendly, with no chemical treatment. The fencing comes in a variety of styles like; picket, round pole, spear top, flat top, and lattice.

The most common woods used are Redwood and Teak since they are naturally resistant to rotting and decay. A wood fence does require some maintenance by reapplying sealer or oil once or twice a year.

Metal Fencing
A metal fence is highly durable and best of all, essentially maintenance-free. Aluminum fencing is more expensive, and not as strong as iron. It is common since it offers a clean look, and is rustproof.

Chain link fences are great for the project that requires straight lines. Mesh is made out of carbon steel or aluminum and is less expensive. A metal fence can be vinyl-coated for added protection

Vinyl Fencing
For maximum durability go with vinyl fencing, with a life expectancy of 10+ years. Just spray down with a garden hose to clean.

Vinyl fencing comes in a wide variety of architectural styles, though it’s limited in color. The low-grade vinyl is vulnerable to fading from UV light and extreme temperatures.

Wrought Iron Fencing
If you like more of a traditional look, choose wrought iron fencing. The panels come in a wide variety of designs, shapes, colors, and widths. Iron is stronger than aluminum, but it can rust, making it necessary to have a coating applied. There are a variety of tops for wrought iron fencing, like spears.

Privacy Fencing
Another option is privacy fencing, which offers space to relax. Usually, cedar is the wood of choice because of its durability. A sealant is needed to resist decay and insects. Maintenance can include plank replacement and a yearly application of sealant.

One thing to consider is the height of the fence. The choices are 4, 6, and 8 ft. Privacy fencing is for, well privacy. Pick a height where neighbors can’t see over, even when they stand on their deck.

Fencing is more than enclosing your property. Other options are; hide trash cans, extra security around a pool, restricted pet area, and more. Talk with Fencing Contractor Plano for more ideas.

​ When you want to build a new deck, you must find a contractor who can build the deck of your dreams. However, you need to ask a few questions before you sign any contracts. The questions listed below will help you narrow down your options, avoid any trouble, and keep your costs down.

Can I Get A Free Estimate?

When you are talking to deck contractors in Plano, you need to ask for a free estimate. Talk to the contractor about the deck design you prefer. Show the contractor where the deck should be, and discuss how much it costs to build the deck. A free estimate helps you compare materials and prices as you shop around.

Should You Use Composite Decking Or Wood Planks?

You may have your sights set on hardwood decks that will impress your guests. You can feel the difference when you walk on a hardwood surface, or you may want to use composite decking to keep your costs down. Deck contractors in Plano should know how to explain the difference between composite and hardwood decks. Composites are cheaper, but people can see that you used lighter materials. A hardwood deck is more expensive, but the deck looks magnificent when it is finished.

Can You Complete A Deck Replacement?

Deck building often involves the replacement of an old deck. You need to know if you can get the exact deck that you had before or a new design. A deck design may have inspired you to upgrade your deck, or you may need a deck replacement because a storm destroyed your old deck.

If you have concerns about the weather, you should weigh the composite decking cost against hardwoods. Some people prefer to use composites because they are cheaper to repair or replace. However, you may choose hardwoods because you feel the deck will be sturdier if you use heavy materials.

How Long Does Deck Building Last?

Your contractor cannot tell you exactly how long it will take to build the deck, but they can give you an estimate. You must give your contractors some leeway if they encounter any inclement weather or heavy winds. You can ask your deck contractor for progress reports during the job, and they should know when they are close to the end of the project.

How Much Am I Paying Upfront?

You need to sign a contract to get your deck built, and you need to know how much you owe upfront. You cannot pay for a deck that has not been built, but you cannot expect your contractor to build the deck with no money. Ensure that the deposit for your deck is a reasonable amount. If a contractor wants all the money upfront, you should walk away.

You can build an amazing deck with help from a local deck contractor. You can compare the composite decking cost to hardwoods. You can shop around when you get a free estimate, or you can get a replacement deck when a storm has destroyed your old deck.

​The North American Deck and Railing Association estimates that about 40 million decks in the United States alone are more than two decades old. If this applies to the deck that happens to be attached to your home in Plano, consider composite decking as an option for your updated deck.

While wood has long-been the go-to deck building material, composite can provide similar aesthetics with some really compelling additional benefits. Here are some of the most appealing benefits of composite decking to keep in mind as you contact deck contractors in Plano.

Wood-Like Beauty
While wood has a long history of being used for deck building purposes, it's a material that's also susceptible to warping and other types of damage. The good news is today's composite materials can give you a beautiful wood grain pattern. In fact, today's decking boards look more natural and attractive than ever before!

Impressive Durability
High-performance composite decking is designed to stand up well to the elements from one season to the next. It also handles day-to-day wear well, even during the warmer months when you are likely to be using your deck more often. In addition to being resistant to damage from insects and critters and splinter-free, this type of decking is also highly durable for the following reasons:

• It resists fading
• It's resistant to stains
• It won't warp, crack, or rot
• It's equally durable for kids and pets

Easy Maintenance and Upkeep
Deck replacement with composite can be equally appealing because of the time you'll save with maintenance and upkeep. For starters, composite does not require regular staining or painting. There's also no need to worry about sanding to keep the surface smooth and splinter-free. Cleaning requirements generally involve nothing more than occasional rinses with soap and water or a garden hose.

Low Environmental Impact
Composite is an extremely environmentally friendly product! Manufacturers typically use recycled materials to make this type of decking material. So, you can confidently create an amazing deck or go ahead with your deck replacement project with composite instead of wood knowing that you are also being kind to Mother Nature!

Exceptional Value
The total composite decking cost may be, on average, a bit more than what you would pay with traditional wood decking. Specifically, the average composite decking cost is about $35 per square foot, although polythylene-based composite averages about $7-8 per square foot. Composite, however, is a material that can easily pay for itself over time! According to some estimates, you may be able to recoup your initial investment in well under a decade.

Long-Lasting Value
Traditional wood decks have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Composite, on the other hand, can last for 25-30 years or more when properly installed by deck contractors in Plano.

Ready to explore your options with composite for your deck? Our deck contractors in Plano are prepared to provide an estimate to get you started and leave you impressed with the results. Contact us today to discuss this versatile and budget-pleasing deck replacement or new deck installation material.

If you are interested in using composite decking material for a new deck build but have trouble justifying the additional cost, you are not alone! The average cost of a 400 sq. ft. composite deck is about $5,700 while the same size deck built using traditional pressure treated lumber will average about $3,000. However, in order to make a truly informed decision, a homeowner will need to compare more than just the cost of materials and installation costs. The purpose of this article is to take a deeper look at all the costs associated with building a traditional wood deck as well as a composite deck so that an accurate, apples-to-apples comparison can be made and the homeowner can make the best decision for their needs.
 
A Look At Maintenance Costs
Most goods and services on the market are offered in a variety of price points. Similar products serve the same purpose but may be priced quite differently. The same is true for deck building materials. To effectively compare building materials for your deck and choose the one right for your needs, you will need to consider two factors: long-term value (LTV) and the total cost of ownership (TCO). Both terms are used to calculate and measure the total amount of time and money that someone will spend on something they own.
A traditional pressure treated wood deck will cost less to build and install initially, however to keep the deck safe and sturdy and free from damage, it will need more regular maintenance than a composite wood deck. Routine maintenance equals money – whether you choose to DIY the work or hire someone else to complete the maintenance and repairs.
 
Annual Deck Sealing
Let’s dive a bit deeper into wood deck maintenance costs. All lumber, even pressure treated lumber, is prone to moisture damage at some point. Since wood is an organic material it naturally absorbs and retains water. When water seeps into wood it can cause both minor surface damage like mold and mildew as well as more major damage such as rot that can compromise the structural integrity of the deck. In order to try and prevent as much water damage as possible, wood decks must be sealed every few years with paint or stain.
According to research, homeowners spend an average of $800 per year on professional deck maintenance such as sanding, sealing prepping and staining or painting. The DIYer may spend less but there are still some significant costs associated with doing it yourself like buying the cleaners, stains and sealants as well as the time it takes to complete the work which normally takes up to two full days.
As we’ve shown here so far, after just 2-3 years the additional maintenance expenses required to care for a traditional wood decks is starting to add up to the initial cost of a composite wood deck. While composite deck do require some maintenance it is minimal compared to a wood deck. Composite decks only require sweeping and maybe an occasional light wash with soap and water.
  
Resale Deal Breaker
Some homeowners who have wood decks maintain them beautifully and don’t mind the extra work and costs associated with them, however home resale value is also something to keep in mind. If you are thinking about selling your home soon, potential buyers may not welcome the additional maintenance expense. This becomes even more of a factor for larger decks that will take more maintenance over time. Studies have shown that composite decks are preferred by new home buyers because of their low maintenance attributes as well as their ability to retain value for a longer period of time.
 
Benefits of Composite Decking
Many homeowners have come to understand that the true costs of building a traditional wood deck may be lower initially, however may cost more in the long run due to cost to maintain it. High-quality composite deck materials can last up to 25 years and most come with limited stain and fade warranties.
As more and more homeowners enjoy the extended living space that decks provide, deck contractors are starting to recommend newer generation composite decking materials over traditional pressure treated wood decks. Initially, when composite deck materials were new to the marketplace there was very little variety and most didn’t look very realistic, however manufacturers have come along way and today’s composite wood decking can closely mimic teak, cherry or walnut.

​If you are ready to join the millions of homeowners who have taken the composite wood deck plunge give our team a call today so that we can get started on your deck build! 

Wood decks are by far the most common type of deck you will see across the US, however it does take some regular maintenance in order to keep it safe and beautiful. Despite our best efforts at staining and sealing, deck boards can still sometimes become cracked and splintered making the deck not only old and worn looking but can also present some safety concerns over time. Some homeowners choose to replace worn deck boards with composite decking boards but for many this option may be cost prohibitive. If you fall into that category there is some good news I have to share with you about a more affordable solution to your worn and cracked deck boards. There is a product designed to restore your existing deck boards called deck paint restoration.  

What is a Deck Restoration Coating? 
Deck restore paint coatings are made from a durable and long-lasting tintable acrylic base material with UV inhibitors and added solids. The solids that are added to the coatings provide texture and hold the product together once applied to the wood surface. There are several brands to choose from – some brands allow the wood to breathe yet still also repel water while others form an impermeable barrier. No matter which brand you select, all of them will require thorough surface preparation in order to get all the benefits of the restorative coatings.  
Deck paint restoration coatings are designed to be a thick solution that can fill in cracks, splinters and knotholes. These restoration coating products also retexture the wood surface and can last up to 13 years for a single coat. Even better news! This DIY project won’t take you weeks and weeks of time! You can complete the prep work on one weekend and them apply the restore paint coating product during the next weekend. In order to prepare your wood deck for the coating you will need to clean it thoroughly with a pressure washer and deck cleaner.  
 
Deck restoration paint covering options 
Some retail brands that we’ve used and can highly recommend are:  

• Restore 10X 
• Restore 4X by Rust-Oleum 

• Deckcover by Behr 
• Rescue IT! By Olympic 
• RockSolid Deck Restoration by Citadel  

It is important to research the surface preparation requirements issued by each manufacture for each of these products and get any questions answered by a local deck contractor or an expert at the home improvement or hardware store.  

The Restore 10X product is ten times the thickness of paint while the Restore 4X (as well as the other products) are four times the thickness of paint. If your deck has larger cracks and knots to fill your best bet is to use the 10X product as it will be more durable and better able to cover those cracks and knots to restore surface flaws. However, be warned the additional thickness of these products also means that it covers fewer square inches so it will take more product to cover your deck area. If you deck only has some minor cracks and knots to restore you may want to consider the thinner coating products in order to save time and money.  

Another important consideration when selecting a paint restoration coating is the color. If your deck receives a lot of direct sunlight during the day you will not want to choose a dark color because the coatings absorb a lot of heat and retain it longer than untreated wood deck boards. For decks that receive direct sunlight in the heat of the day you will want to select a lighter coating color so that the deck does not become to hot to walk on with bare feet.  

Another consideration when selecting a coating product is that some products (such as the Restore 10X) can only be used on horizontal surfaces. You will need to select a matching or complimentary product that is designed for vertical deck surfaces such as posts. To save on costs when buying more than 4 gallons consider buying the restorative coating product in bulk pails. As we’ve mentioned earlier in this article the effectiveness of the restorative deck coating products has a lot to do with the preparation process. We recommend purchasing t he manufacturer’s deck wash in order to be sure that the wash you use is compatible with the coating product.  

Some deck restoration products (such as Restore 10X) can be used only on horizontal surfaces, so you’ll need a matching or complementary product designed for the deck’s vertical surfaces. And, if you’re buying 4 or more gallons, buy it in pails instead of individual gallons. You won’t have to refill your roller tray constantly (the product goes fast!). Before you leave the store, buy the manufacturer’s recommended deck wash to ensure compatibility with the deck coating. And buy enough application rollers (one roller for every 4 gallons of material). Ask the store for extra stir sticks—you’ll need them to clean the product from the gaps between boards. 

​Happy deck restoration weekend! If you would rather skip this DIY project we’ve got your back! Give our team a call to discuss prep and restorative coating application prices!  

When it comes to building or updating your home, you are probably looking for ways to save money. The easiest way to save money is by doing as many of these projects by yourself. As far as do-it-yourself home projects are concerned, deck repair, water proofing, and deck refinishing are some of the easier things to do. If your deck is in rough shape and you want to fix it yourself, here are some tips. 
Go In With A Plan- When you are doing any type of home improvement project, you need to go in with a plan. You may know that your deck needs work, but what exactly does it need to have done? Do you need weather proofing or just water proofing? Do you need deck sealing or just deck refinishing? Maybe you need it all, in that case, you need to take your time and make sure you get the best products for the job. 

Start With Repairs- Before you even start refinishing or staining your deck, you need to do any repairs that your deck might need. Deck repair can be the hardest part of sprucing up the outside of your house. Sometimes all it will take is a fresh board and some nails, while other times you are going to have to put in a whole new support system. 

Scrub Your Wood, Then Test It- Once you are sure your deck is safe and no one is going to fall the boards, it is time to clean it. You will want to use a deck cleaner and a scrub brush. If you have a lot of areas to cover you can use a pressure washer. After it is cleaned you are going to want to test it and make sure deck sealing is needed. Sprinkle some water on the boards, if absorbs immediately the deck can be sealed, if it beads up on top of the boards, then you can wait a little while longer. 

Apply Your Sealing Product- When it comes to deck sealing products, you want to make sure to buy something that is going to get the job done. This is not an area you want to cheap out on, because the more expensive products are going to contain better ingredients thus making the product work better. You will want something that can also be used for weather proofing, not just sealing. Once you have your sealing product you will want to apply it. You can just use a foam roller to apply it, just be careful not to over apply or miss any spots.

​Be Patience- After doing your deck refinishing you are going to be excited at how good it looks. Many people try to rush and start using their beautiful new deck immediately. Don’t do this, wait at least 24 hours before decorating or even walking on it. It will look much better in the long run.