What are Hidden Deck Fasteners? – Building Decks With No Screws Showing

Timbertech hidden fastener

When you go through the effort of constructing your deck you deserve to have it look amazing. How exactly do deck fasteners affect the look of your deck? The visible screws ruin the sight of your deck and rust over time. Thankfully, you do have another option today: hidden deck fasteners. 

Hidden deck fasteners secure your deck boards to the joists of the deck but instead of being installed from the top of the boards, as screws on their own would have to be, they are installed from the bottom and/or sides of the board so that the screws don’t show.

In today’s article, we’ll look at how you can stop building decks with the screws all over the deck, how to use hidden fasteners, what you can use them for, and other deck securing options available to you.

How do You Build a Deck Without Screws Showing?

We know you aren’t wondering what the big deal is about getting rid of screws on your deck because you’re reading this article. Screws, which looked okay on a deck after it was first built, will,

  • Rust over time
  • Cause boards to crack 
  • Catch on socks 
  • And make it very difficult to remove or remodel the deck after rusting

For these reasons, you’re looking for a different fastening solution from the start of the project and the best alternative solution you’re looking for is hidden fasteners. 

Hidden fasteners accomplish the goal of securing the deck boards to the joists while being totally invisible. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all work by being attached underneath and/or on the sides of the deck boards. They will either hide the screws with plugs that match the deck’s material or with clips that clip onto the grooves on the sides of the boards. 

There are several benefits to having hidden clips. 

  1. Because of their placement, they allow the boards to expand and construct without cracking.
  2. Since they’re hidden, you don’t have to worry about painting the screws to match the deck. 
  3. Even if they are placed somewhere they could be seen, they come in a variety of colors so that they are unobtrusive. 

These fasteners will spare you the trouble of predrilling your deck boards too. Now, there are screws today that are coated to prevent corrosion and are made to bend to prevent cracks a little longer, but they are twice or even three times more expensive than regular deck screws. 

How do You Install Decking with Hidden Fasteners?

The process of using hidden clips is definitely more time-consuming than installing the screws directly through the boards on top, but it’s still fairly straightforward. What’s important is to match the right hidden fastener with the decking brand. This section will be for those who have already constructed the joists and frame of the deck and are ready to install the deck boards.

For example, if you have a TimberTech composite deck, it would have been constructed with TimberTech’s hidden fasteners exclusively because they only fit the company’s deck board grooves. It’s the same with other decking brands. The steps are as follows and we’ll take TimberTech’s composite deck options as our examples for them. 

Choose the Right Hidden Fasteners

The choice of fastener depends on which profile your deck boards are: grooved or square. TimberTech has three decking options: Edge, Pro, and Azek. Each has their own collection. Select the collection and option under the collection that you want and then scroll down to the “options & dimensions” tab. See if the options come as square-shouldered or grooved. 

If you have grooved boards, you have your choice of hidden fasteners according to the board choice you wanted. If they are square-shouldered, they lend themselves more to the classic top-down fasteners or the color-matching screws and plugs.

The hidden fasteners (H.F.s )that fit all TimberTech grooved decking are

  • The CONCEALoc H.F.
  • The CONCEALoc L-brackets (for the first and last boards)
  • The FUSIONLoc H.F.

The H.F.s that fit Azek boards are:

  • CORTEX for Azek
  • SIDELoc 

The H.F.s that fit the Pro boards are:

  • CORTEX for Pro & Edge

The H.F.s that fit the Edge boards are:

  • CORTEX for Pro & Edge

Once you’ve determined which fastener you need, the rule of thumb on the quantity for hidden fasteners is 175 pieces per 100 square feet of decking.

Install the First Board

Now that you have your fasteners, take your first grooved board and attach it to the joists with your L-brackets. These brackets can also be used for butt seams to minimize the need for sister joints. Begin at one edge of your deck with a grooved board and make the board flush with the edge.

Install Your First Fasteners

With your first board secured against the brackets, slide your fasteners into the groove on the side facing your house, making sure each clip is centered on the joists. Drill in the screws until they’re flush with the clip and slide in the next board. There should be a ¼” space between boards.

Repeat & Finish

Repeat this process with each board until you reach the last one. On the last board, attach it to the clips of the previous board like you’ve been doing, and then fasten it with the L-brackets to finish.

Are There Hidden Fasteners for Wood Decking?

Absolutely! Wood decks have the same hidden fastener choices as composites do:

  • Plugs hiding the screws
  • Clip fasteners

The problem with wood decks is that hidden fasteners are generally made for premium hardwoods instead of softwoods or pressure-treated wood whereas composite decks have more of a variety of fasteners to choose from.

Lastly, a wooden deck, even with the best fasteners available, won’t last as long as a composite deck will. Wooden decks will typically last 10-15 years with good maintenance, while composites can last as long as 50 years!

How do You Install Composite Decking Without Hidden Fasteners?

If you chose a square-shouldered board design, you can opt for plugs. Plugs require small circles made from the same material and color as your deck, but do not require pre-drilled holes or placing the boards down one at a time.

The way they work is,

  1. Using a drill bit, drill the screws into the joists from the top-down
  2. Clear away the debris and place the plugs on top of the holes.
  3. Hammer in the plugs

It’s very straight-forward. The only thing you need to know is where to find the plugs. TimberTech’s CORTEX for Pro & Edge is an example of a plug fastener and to get the plugs you need, you just have to click on the color of your deck. As for the Azek series there is no available plug system but they do have TOPLocs which are screws with colored and rounded heads that are coated to prevent rust.

As you can see, the TOPLocs are pretty much the same thing as the typical top-down fastening method, with some useful touches. Ultimately, if hidden clips are not what you want to use, but you still want the clean look and smooth surface, you should use the plug fastener method.

In Short…

You now have a good understanding of what hidden deck fasteners are and why they are so useful. You even have some options to look at if you still want the clean look but don’t care for hidden clips. Whatever your preference or means, there is something for everyone’s dream deck.

If you live in the Northern Colorado / Southern Wyoming area and would like to schedule a free consultation to talk to one of our TNT team members about your deck project, then give us a call today at 970-663-2868 or visit the deck services page and fill out the contact form.

What to Know Before You Build a Deck

deck

Now that Spring is heading our way, we’re excited to do those outdoor projects we promised ourselves we would do this year, like build a new deck. Hopefully, you’ve been planning for a while before now, but if you’re currently considering building a deck there are some things to figure out first.

Before building a deck, the homeowner or contractor should determine at least the deck zone requirements, size, level, foundation, preferred material, color(s), frame construction, guardrail requirements, deck maintenance, and total cost of the project. 

In this article, we’ll provide some helpful advice and need-to-know information on all of these considerations, so read on. 

Check Deck Regulations

There are two sets of regulations to be aware of: the Controlled Decking Zone (CDZ) code and the residential codes that apply to structures that are a part of a deck, such as railings. 

The CDZ is where access to the zone is managed but there are no fall-prevention systems, such as nets, in place. This is the zone your deck will be in for the bulk of its construction. The requirements for working in a CDZ are:

  • You can be no more than 90 feet wide and 90 feet deep from any leading edge.
  • There must be no more than 3,000 square feet of unsecured decking.
  • There must be clearly marked boundaries with control lines or the equivalent.
  • You need to have safety deck attachments placed from the leading edge back to the control line. Two attachments for each metal decking panel you use. 

Then you must make sure your deck plans are up to these residential code standards for railings, stairs, treads, footings, ledger boards, framing, etc. 

They may differ for each HOA, but samples include, in the U.S., guardrails are required when a deck reaches 30” or higher above grade (above ground level) and ledger boards must be at least 2×8 in size. There are obviously more rules for each piece, the collection of which you can find here.

Decide on the Size

Thankfully, deck sizing doesn’t have a string of codes attached to it so the only question you need to ask is do You know how much square footage you want? This will probably be the easiest question for you to answer since you know the dimensions of your house and yard.

Once you’ve decided on the size of your deck you’ll have to calculate the amount of decking you’ll need to accomplish it. You can calculate this amount by,

  1. Determine the total area of your deck (LxW)
  2. Decide what board lengths you want to use
  3. Calculate the board square footage
  4. Divide your deck total area by your board total area
  5. Determine the square footage of the deck spacing
  6. Buy more than you need to account for mistakes and waste.

If you need more help to determine the amount of decking you will need, our partner, Timbertech, has a very helpful article that explains these steps in more detail.

Decide on the Level

Now you need to figure out if you want a ground-level deck or a raised deck? On the one hand, a ground-level deck is a lot easier to construct, it’s cheaper because it requires less effort and materials, you might not need a permit if you intend to do it yourself (double-check!), and if you have very young children, they’re usually much safer.

On the other hand, raised decks usually look much nicer, they give you, the owner, a better view of the scenery around you, and when they’re built well, the space created below can be used for storage. 

So the deciding factors of this question seem to include the desired design and preferred function, but for many of you, you need a raised deck because your house sits on foundation walls that raise it above ground level. But, for the record, both can include a BBQ and/or bar area, no problem.

Decide on Your Foundation

Whether you choose a ground-level deck or a raised deck, you need to decide on what you’ll do for the foundation.

For ground-level decks, they will still need to be raised a bit to allow for ventilation, since you will have wet ground at some point. There is a minimum footing depth of 12 inches for ventilation purposes. Then, you can create a simple foundation with deck blocks, concrete blocks on a layer of gravel for better drainage, or anchor spikes. 

For raised decks, you will need to choose between concrete footings, helical piers, and anchored footings. Generally, the footings are chosen for their superior security or for tall decks. Helical piers are good for shorter decks that are still higher than ground level. Whichever foundation you use, check throughout the process that it’s level.

Choose the Right Material Before You Build

This is the toughest decision you will probably make. There are pros and cons with each choice between redwood, pressure-treated lumber, and composite decking. 

Plain wood tends to warp and become damaged more easily, but has a variety of color choices and can be sealed and maintained more easily. 

Composite comes with a minimum 25-year warranty with TimberTech because it lasts for so long and requires minimal care. 

Finally, pressure-treated wood is something in between, with more durability than the redwood, and less cost than composite, but it can easily warp as it goes through its drying process and requires restaining each year. 

Choose Your Color Scheme

You may have thought you knew what color, or colors, you wanted to use but there are aspects of color choice that you might not have been aware of. For instance, your color options will be limited or expanded according to the deck material you chose. Generally wood will offer an almost unlimited color palette because it can be painted and stained. 

Still, composite decking has expanded, at least where TimberTech is concerned, to include many stained wood hues as well as variations of black, gray, tan, and white.

Another thing you should consider is the temperature your summers tend to reach. High temperatures are more likely to warp dark colors instead of light colors because dark shades absorb more heat. 

Calculate the Cost Before Construction

This may be the most important decision. Now that you have a virtually complete understanding of what it will take to construct your deck, you need to calculate the expenses.

How much will it cost to buy the lumber or composite you need? How much for the screws and lags? There’s also the concrete, potentially the stain or paint, the anchors and bolts, the cost of labor if you hire help, and more. 

There are also the non-monetary costs. How long will this project take you if you do it yourself or hire a team of professionals? You should calculate at least two different scenarios: the total if you buy and do everything yourself, and the quotes of at least three contractors.

Deck Maintenance 

Finally, before you break ground, you should understand the kind of maintenance that your deck will need. Even composite decks require some basic maintenance to prevent permanent stains, but all decks will eventually require such care as mopping, hand scrubbing, power washing, repainting or staining, and/or the replacement of warped, splintered, and broken boards.

Conclusion

Those were the most important things you need to know before building a deck to avoid unnecessary complications, but I can tell you there’s more to know, having constructed decks for more than a decade.So if you are located in the Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming area, then give us a call today at 970-663-2868 or fill out the contact form on the deck services page to make an appointment to discuss your next home improvement project to find out EVERYTHING you need to know.

How Can I Make My Deck Look Better?

old deck board that is curling up

Twenty Years ago, your deck looked absolutely amazing! Then time and wear got to it and its visibily has given up, with chips, warps, splinters, and questionable stains. It doesn’t help that the old furniture you have on it right now, if any, isn’t making the deck look any better. What can you do?

Homeowners can improve the appearance of their decks by repairing them, repainting or staining them, and/or adding furniture and decorative accents for more functionality and color.

Having trouble improving your deck? Read below for help on cleaning, picking colors, and adding furniture to help inspire you.

How do I Make My Decking Look Nice?

Good-looking decks require two things:

  1. Being clean and tidy
  2. Being decorated

Naturally, it isn’t very relaxing to lounge on a deck that is dirty, cluttered, splintered, or damaged. Necessary repairs and cleaning would be the first steps toward creating an enjoyable outdoor space.

After that, you can get to the fun part of decorating the deck with convenient furniture, rugs, plants, pillows and cushions, and more. That’s all it takes to turn a deck into an outdoor extension of the comforts of home.

How Can I Clean My Deck Quickly?

The quickest way to clean your deck is to pressure wash it. If food or drink spills occur, clean them up right away so that they don’t soak in. Stubborn stains might take a little more time, but not by much, and the effort to remove them is worth it.

For composite decks, remove stains with a mild soap like dish soap, or use a cleaner that’s specially formulated for your deck’s specific brand. Grab a brush to scrub at the stain, then wash the soap off thoroughly.

If you have a wood deck, stains from food and drinks can be removed relatively quickly by wetting the deck with water, dissolving deck cleaner in a bucket with warm water, and then applying with a mop, scrubbing with the grain. Let the solution soak into the wood for about 10 minutes, reapplying the solution if it starts prematurely drying, and then rinsing thoroughly with water. If solid stains are your trouble, you’ll need to strip that section of the deck with a deck stain stripping solution and a brush with firm bristles. 

Lastly, for concrete stains, use a powdered oxygen cleaner and water to remove water-based stains or mineral spirits and a wire brush for oil-based stains. Then scrub the stained area again with an oxygen bleach and water mixture, and rinse off. 

How do I Make My Decking Area Look Good?

When a deck looks inviting, it’s partly because it has furniture with which you and your guests can relax or dine. Furniture like a dining table and chairs, coffee table and chair sets, benches, or pergolas, are excellent additions. Appliances that refresh everyone, such as bars and BBQs, are also inviting.

Furniture won’t be enough to make a deck look good, they need to be decorated in order to be inviting. Tables need dining sets, cloths, and napkins, seating areas need cushions and pillows, and tables always benefit with centerpieces like firepits, and plants. The colors of these accents pieces, decorations, flowers, and the deck itself will make or break the environment, so get a good idea of your color scheme.

What Color Should I Paint My Decking?

When you choose a good color for your deck, it ties your home and outside furnishings together seamlessly, instead of creating distractingly separate spaces, and it will add beautiful visual interest with the right amount of contrast.

You can have a better chance of choosing a good deck color by matching it to the color of existing accent colors on your home’s exterior, like the trim or doors. It doesn’t even have to be a perfect match. You can just pull out a hue of color from your house’s exterior to use for the deck.

Another common color trick is to use a color wheel to determine your primary color, secondary color, and accent color by figuring out which color scheme you’re going for:

  • Monochromatic
  • Analogous
  • Complimentary
  • Or triadic

How Can I Make My Deck More Modern?

Modern decks are gorgeous! Yours can look modern by employing techniques like:

  • Using metal and wood, such as with rails
  • Adding a pergola
  • Using dark stain for greater contrast with your house, or dark woods like Ipe.
  • Create patterns in the boards
  • Having varied plank colors
  • Adding built-in wood seats or benches
  • Use hidden fasteners to prevent using nails that interrupt the design
  • Use recycled material

One move that makes a deck modern in at least three ways is by using composite decking. You can have as dark a color as you’d like, have intricate designs, and in the case of TimberTech, can be made with up to 80% recycled material.

How do You Make Decking Shine?

Over time, the luster and color that your hardwood, composite, or concrete decking had will begin to wear off with heavy traffic, abrasive cleaning, excessive heat and sun, etc. So how do you get that shine back? After removing furniture, rugs, plants, and other decorations, restoring shine will come in three general steps:

  1. Clean
  2. Apply shining product 
  3. Maintain 

Usually, the shining product will be some kind of stain or paint, which begs the question, is it better to paint or stain a deck?

Wood

Start repairing any damages such as replacing broken and splintered boards. Your next steps will depend on if your deck was originally stained, varnished, or painted.

If your wood deck was stained when it was originally installed, just thoroughly pressure wash the deck with either 500-600 psi or 1200-1500 psi, depending on if your deck uses softwood or hardwood. After cleaning, you have to sand the deck with 60-80 grit on the main deck and 80-100 grit on handrails, then vacuum or sweep the dust off.

Now you can stain the deck with either water or oil-based stains. Water-based will be easier to clean, but oil-based soaks into the wood better and lasts longer. It should be easy to find stains that also seals. Before staining the actual deck, make sure the stain you have has the color you want by swatching a sample on a spare board. Repainting or revarnishing is the same process: clean, sand, then paint or varnish. 

For wood decks, paint will last longer than stain and has no trouble covering previous stains or blemishes, but hides the grain and is not easy to remove once it’s down.

Finally, you can maintain your hard work by lightly washing the deck with a mild soap, then applying a deck brightener (if you stained the deck) and rinsing, and lastly, applying new stain.

Composite

Composite decks, like TimberTech, are meant to be low-maintenance and long-lasting with a durable glossy finish. They have a minimum warranty of 25 years for fading and stains and neither paint or stain will stick to the deck if it’s capped. If you still want to go through with re-shining, the process is below. 

Begin the process by removing furniture and decorations from the deck. Then, clean your composite decking by using Timberdeck’s Deckcleaner and the appropriate brush to scrub each board. Use a 1:3 ratio of cleaner to water.

If you have TimberTech composite:

  • AZEK: A stiff brush with natural fibers
  • PRO or EDGE: A medium to a stiff nylon brush

Use a hose or a power washer that’s at least 8” away from the deck at 1500 psi with a fan-tip nozzle to thoroughly rinse off the cleaner. If you leave any residue and move on to another section, you’ll end up with a film. 

If you’re staining, use a reputable oil-based stain and sealant and apply it with a normal brush and/or a roller. Then simply maintain the deck by washing it down seasonally. 

If you’re painting, you’ll have to sand the entire deck with a 240 grit in order to remove the gloss finish and get the paint to stick. Sweep off the shards. Next, you’ll need to prime the deck first with a latex exterior primer for flexibility, and once the primer is dry, paint.

For composite decking, both paint and stain work equally well, so long as you choose brands made for outside and for being walked on. 

Concrete

To resurface your concrete pool decking, begin by grinding and pressure washing the surface at approximately 3000 psi. The next step is to repair any cracks, chips, or spalling, and then smooth out the patched areas by grinding. Then, just wash off or vacuum the concrete dust.

Now you can finally mix and apply the resurfacing agent such as Sakrete Flo-Coat with a trowel or squeegee. The last step is to drag a broom across the fresh agent to create texture.

Conclusion

Trying to make sense of your decking situation? Well, if you’re located in the Northern Colorado or Southern Wyoming areas, we can come by and talk about your next big backyard project! You can give us a call today at (970) 663-2868 or visit the deck services page and fill out the contact form to make an appointment for a free consultation.

What is the Difference Between a Balcony and a Veranda?

Nothing could be worse in the home-improvement world than confusing the various styles and terms of outdoor extensions. For example, telling your contractor you would like a balcony when you actually wanted a veranda. But, what’s the difference? How can you be sure of which one you want? It would help to know what makes them different from each other.

A balcony is an open platform connected to the side of a building, always on the second floor or up. They are never installed at ground level. Balconies have many purposes when installed, such as creating an open space that allows the owner to enjoy scenic views and relax. A veranda, or verandah, is a ground-level platform connected to a house that is roofed. It creates a well-ventilated room that is protected from the direct light and heat of the sun to take advantage of space that might not normally be useable in areas with intensely hot months. 

To better understand the differences between balconies and verandas and other important distinctions, such as their purposes, read on!

What is a Veranda?

Verandas are platforms that are always constructed on the ground level and connected to the adjoining building. They are always roofed structures and have traditionally included round arches in between the supporting pillars or intricate ironwork. A good example of how older verandas looked are Creole townhouse-styled houses or apartments. These are common in New Orleans’ French Quarter.

Verandas don’t have to be a small section on one side of the house. They can be wrap-around porches that surround the entire building too. So long as the extension is roofed, that’s basically what a veranda is. 

Verandas are also known as open-air porches and compared to loggias, which are roofed exterior galleries (rooms with open sides). They’re similar because they are both open-sided extensions to a house and have similar uses because they share their structures so closely. That brings us to the question, “what is the purpose of a veranda?”

What is the Purpose of a Veranda?

The word “verandah” is said to have originated in India and was adopted by the English. In any case, they do have their modern style rooted in Australia during the 1850s. They were perfectly designed for environments that were hot during the summer months or warm all year round, like Australia, because they are always roofed. They created a shade oases that allow breezes to come through freely and are flooded with natural light, easily making them some of the most pleasant spaces in the house, especially when electricity wasn’t available. 

Many of the European-styled houses that were in Australia suffered from the lack of fresh air and didn’t have enough windows to brighten up the interior. So it was common to have an enclosed veranda to be a guest room during the hottest times of the year, with plenty of fresh air breezing through the space and offering merciful shade. 

Today, when they aren’t being used as fancy aerated bedrooms, they’re used for entertainment in between the outdoors and indoors. They make great dining and sitting areas that provide a change in scenery and open space that guests might not be able to enjoy indoors. 

What is a Balcony?

A balcony is a platform connected to a building by its ledgers, surrounded by a railing or balustrade, and supported with console brackets, or sometimes with columns. They require support because they are always on the second floor or higher. Unlike verandas, they are not roofed, except with a very specific style. The word we get “balcony” from is the Italian word, “balcone,” which means “scaffold.”

A unique feature of balconies is that, unlike verandas which are accessed by a side door or back door, balconies can be accessed by the floor window as well as a door, depending on what the owner of the building wanted, or if the window was constructed first and the balcony later. 

So what is the purpose of balconies? Balconies have numerous uses, today, but their original purpose was to introduce better circulation of air in ancient greek homes and to bring in much more natural light. 

Today, balconies are fantastic spaces that can provide more storage space, be a private escape, provide a place to relax and enjoy the scenery around you, enjoy outdoor dining, create a private garden, and more. The original purposes still stand true too! You can enjoy much more natural light and ventilation than with windows alone. The best part is that balconies come in numerous distinct types so that there’s one for every taste.

What are the Different Types of Balconies?

Naturally, if you have determined that you want a balcony constructed and not a veranda, then you need to know which kind of balcony you want to be built. There are plenty of options to choose from. 

There are about 8 different types of balconies, not including the different styles, such as Juliet and french balconies:

  • True balconies
  • False balconies
  • Faux balconies
  • Loggia balconies
  • Cantilevered balconies
  • Hung balconies
  • Stacked balconies
  • And Mezzanine balconies

True Balconies

True balconies are what you immediately think of when someone says the word, “balcony.” They are wide deck spaces outside a second-story (or so) window or door that have a railing and sufficient structural support. They can be set into small alcoves in a building and come with a small roof, but the point of a true balcony is that it’s useable. 

They’re called “true balconies,” because of that fact as there is a type of balcony that can’t be used as balconies are typically intended, called false balconies. Since these balconies are supposed to be used, their structure is much more carefully constructed with user safety in mind and will even include added support such as metal support brackets below the deck. 

False Balconies

False balconies are so-called because they are meant to adorn the building but not actually be used space. As a result, they aren’t constructed with the same level of structural support as balconies that are actually used and need the support in order to hold the weight of several grown men and furniture. 

Since their one purpose is to decorate the building, they usually have ornate wrought iron railings or dazzlingly colored stucco designs and don’t protrude from the walls very much. Usually, they only extend out at six inches, tops. Juliet and French balconies fall into this false balcony category.

Faux Balconies

Faux balconies are like false balconies in that they are strictly for decoration purposes, but unlike false balconies, they don’t even include a deck. They’re just highly elaborately decorated railings. You may be wondering why anyone would bother with a faux balcony when there are already false ones, but the benefit of faux balconies is that they eliminate the possibility that anyone could mistake it for a real one and get hurt.

Loggia Balconies

Loggias aren’t just extensions to a building like a balcony, enclosed with only a railing or balustrade. Loggias actually have sidewalls, as a house does. Most of the time, they are just part of the building’s exterior wall as alcoves instead of extending out. In either case, only one side of the loggia looks out and serves more like a thinner sunroom. This does make it a little more secure than a common balcony but naturally takes longer to construct and more materials. 

Cantilevered Balconies

These are balconies that are designed with large beams that are only supported at the wall they are connected to but have no support on the side furthest away from the building. In other words, there are no visible support systems. This option is usually chosen because it’s very visually appealing due to the fact you can’t see the supports and it’s the simplest to construct but can become dangerous with age at those support points, making regular inspection more or less required. 

Hung Balconies

Hung balconies are named by the supporting structure you see. Stainless steel cables are fixed to the wall of the building and attached to the far edges of these hung balconies, then a large plate connects to the building at an acute 45 degrees. These balconies may be the least commonly seen, but they are safer than you might think. Their design fully utilizes the strength of the bolts used, using 50% sheer force and 50% pull-out force.

Stacked Balconies

If you have ever seen a bunk bed, you have a general idea of what stacked balconies look like. These are some of the simplest balconies to install and they have the lowest load implications on buildings. Stacked balconies are exactly what they sound like, they’re balconies on top of each other from floor to floor, supported by pillars that reach from the top balcony to the ground. Naturally, as a homeowner, you’re likely not going to need more than one balcony on the same wall.

Mezzanine Balconies

Unlike every other balcony type in this article, a mezzanine balcony is constructed inside large buildings. In appearance, it’s a lot like a common balcony by extending away from the main wall, having the large deck and rails, and being made to be walked on with proper supports, but it’s built-in exceptionally large buildings like hotels, enormous malls, and other similar structures.

What is on a Veranda?

Back to verandas. What do homeowners normally place on a veranda? How are they decorated? Verandas are still entertainment spaces, so most will place comfortable sitting areas with small coffee tables. Rocking chairs, couches, or wick chairs are very common choices for this. If the veranda is large enough, you can place a whole dining area on it. 

Like we talked about earlier, verandas were originally used as outdoor bedrooms in climates like Australia has, so there would be a bed, nightstand, curtains, etc. Since they are always covered, you can easily decorate the space with even more lighting, such as hanging lights.

Added lighting sources and potted plants are often found on verandas to brighten the space (literally) and make the atmosphere more comfortable and homey. If it’s decoration ideas you’re looking for, there are some ideas here. I’m the engineer on the team for goodness sake, not the decorator. It’s not really my forte unless I’m truly inspired.

What is the Difference Between a Patio and a Veranda?

Ultimately, the difference between a patio and a veranda is variety. Patios have a defined structure but deviate from it very often with the features that they may or may not have, depending on what the homeowner would like. Sometimes they’ll have rails, sometimes they don’t, among other features. 

Verandas, on the other hand, have a defined structure that they never deviate from. They are ALWAYS connected to the house, they always have rails, they are always roofed, etc. Here are the primary differences between the two.

Patios

  • Patios can be found sometimes connected to the house or entirely separated from it.
  • Patios are not commonly roofed but they do often include a fabric overhead shade, at least in part, but not a more permanent or durable roof structure unless the patio is paired with a gazebo above it. 
  • Patios are designed to help residents enjoy being outdoors as wide outdoor living spaces that are open and useful for a range of activities because it’s not limited by size. Since they are made for entertaining groups they will often include outdoor kitchens or BBQ areas.
  • They can be raised off the ground to stay flush with an entry door.
  • Patios might come with rails, especially when off the ground for safety, but not always.
  • Patios are only typically constructed on only one side of a building, most commonly the backyard since it’s usually the designated outdoor entertainment space and has the room for the patio.
  • Patios can be constructed out of pavers as well as wood.

Verandas

  • Verandas are always connected to the main building structure. They are designed to be more like an outdoor room extension to a house; a refuge from intense heat and sun that doesn’t close off the outdoors entirely.
  • Verandas always have a roof over them.
  • Verandas always have rails and at least two pillars to support the roof. 
  • Verandas can wrap around a house to connect the front and back entrances or even be wrapped around the entire building. 
  • Verandas are always at ground level.
  • Modern verandas are partly constructed out of aluminum. Since they are often constructed in locations with hot and humid conditions, they are made with composite wood, stone tiles, treated wood, and/or vinyl. 

As far as outdoor extensions go, verandas and patios have similar functions, primarily as entertainment spaces, but are constructed differently according to climate, need, or desire. 

Is There a Difference Between a Patio and a Balcony? 

Just like with verandas, there are plenty of differences between patios and balconies. Sometimes verandas are even called ground-level balconies. 

When it comes to their purpose these two outdoor structures aren’t very different. They are both used for relaxing and enjoying the fresh outdoor air and the outside world, but they do differ in how many can enjoy the structures and what can be done on them. You’ll probably never see a balcony have a dining table or a BBQ set-up on it. This is because structurally, balconies and patios have major differences.

Balconies are usually very small, meant only for two people to enjoy the space comfortably. Balconies will always have a railing or balustrade wrapped around them while patios might not unless they are off the ground. There’s also the primary difference in that patios are always on the ground floor, while balconies are always at least one floor above the ground. 

Before we sign off in our classic way, I’ll leave you with this: regardless of which structure you choose between balconies and verandas, they are both complicated to construct, which is why you should let a team of professionals help. It’s even better when that team includes an engineer who triple checks every measurement, so consider contacting my crew at T-N-T Home Improvements before planning this big project. 

Conclusion

Both verandas and balconies are exquisite additions to your home and are guaranteed to bring years of entertainment and relaxation, and hopefully, now you know which one suits your house the best. There are a lot of things to know about choosing outdoor house extensions, so the next time you’re trying to make up your mind between a porch, balcony, veranda, gallery, terrace, patio, loggia, pergola, or lanai, let us help you with understanding what you really want. If you are located in the Northern Colorado or Southern Wyoming areas, go ahead and give us a call today at (970) 663-2868, or fill out our contact form on our website home page so that we can walk you through everything you need to know about your balcony/veranda project.

Do You Need a Permit to Build a Deck in Colorado? Rules Cost and More

Have you got a big decking project in mind? Good for you! Getting a deck built or building your own deck can be a source of pride and joy for many homeowners. If your question is whether or not you need a permit to start, then do I have the info for you. Everywhere is a little bit different, but it’s good to have a look at the rules you need to abide by. That’s why we’re taking a closer look at the permit process in Colorado.

You will need to obtain a building permit to build a deck in the state of Colorado. You may require additional permits if installing a feature that has a connection to water, electricity, or gas. However, a small free-standing deck that is no more than 30 inches in height does not require a permit.

The process of obtaining a building permit for your deck is fairly similar across Colorado. There are also costs involved and consequences if you build without a permit, which I will explain.

Colorado Building Permits for Decking

After all the effort of planning and building a deck for your home, you definitely want to make sure it is up to code. Permits are required by law to ensure the safety of your home for you and any subsequent homeowners.

A four-year study revealed that, of all the injuries involving decking, approximately 19,690 cases were caused by structural failure or collapse. The local government is keeping up to date with the latest safety standards so that they can pass these standards onto homeowners when they apply for a building permit.

Each permit will be slightly different depending on what city you are living in. There are state guidelines for Colorado, but these guidelines branch out into each county and city. The best thing to do is to type into Google ‘building permit for a deck in [insert your city here]’, or browse your city’s government website.

The following is based on permit law from Fort Collins in Larimer County, however, all permits are derived from international standards. These are outlined in the International Residential Code (IRC) and the International Building Code (IBC), written by the International Code Council (ICC).

What You Will Need
The following list outlines what is required for the permit to be reviewed. It is your responsibility to gather these documents and provide them to your city council with your application form. 

  • Permit application form
  • Homeowner affidavit
  • Deck information/materials used
  • Site plan (where the deck sits on your lot)
  • Floor plan (house and decking)
  • Side view/elevation plan (shows the foundations and wall attachments if relevant)
  • Connection details (how you are connecting to the wall)
  • Photo of area where you plan to build the deck

This checklist has been taken from the Fort Collins Residential Deck Guide. Just remember that your specific city may differ slightly. In Fort Collins, these documents are all provided for you to sign and fill in. For the drawn plans of your deck, they give examples of what details you should be providing.

Cost
The cost of the permit depends on many factors. On average, you’ll be looking at somewhere around $225-$500 in Colorado.

Permit prices are based on the value of the deck as well as the services required during the inspection period. For example, if you need an inspection outside normal working hours, you will be charged around $50 per hour for the inspector. Or if you fail an inspection and need to repeat it, you will again be charged per hour for the inspector to come out.

You will also require additional permits for any gas, electricity, or water services.  For example, you may want to gas heater on the deck. These start at approximately $25 per permit.

The Process
Here is a step-by-step process of what you can expect when applying for a permit.

  1. Draw up plans for decking.
  2. Prepare all documents mentioned previously.
  3. Submit the application form with supporting documents and payment.
  4. Application is reviewed, including Historic Preservation review if your home is over 50 years old.
  5. Permit is issued and valid for 180 days. You can request one free extension period of a further 180 days. This should be displayed somewhere near the construction.
  6. Begin construction.
  7. First inspection when the setback and footings are established.
  8. Second inspection when the foundation is complete (the concrete piers and pillars are in place)
  9. Third inspection when the frame and any utilities are established (minus flooring of the deck).
  10. Final inspection when the deck is complete.

Rules for Building a Deck
There are many things to consider when designing your deck. By studying the rules specific to your area, you will save yourself the hassle of failing inspections and repeating each step of the building process. Below are a few of the rules you might find.

  • Guardrails: essential if the deck is more than 30 inches above ground. Guardrails should be a minimum 36 inches in height.
  • Stairs: Must be at least 36 inches wide. If more than four risers, stairs must have a 34-36 inch handrail. Risers can range between 4-7 ¾ inch and treads should be at least 10 inches. Stairs must be illuminated.
  • Piers: Concrete piers must be a minimum of 30 inches deep and 8 inches in diameter. Concrete should protrude at least 8 inches above ground. Anchor bolt should be embedded at least 7 inches into concrete. Wooden pillars must be treated to prevent corrosion.

These are the major rules regarding the construction of your deck. These rules may change as the ICC updates their codes every three years. There are also many finer details covered in the ICC’s building code, such as handrail specifications and joists. I suggest you look up the rules specific to your city immediately prior to planning so that you have the most up to date building codes.

Building a Deck without a Permit

Building a deck without a permit is risky. I’m sure there are people who have done it before, but rules have been tightening to ensure that those who have built without a permit are caught. Being caught means paying a hefty fine as well as other consequences.

However, if you are building a floating or ground-level deck, you do not require a permit. The floating deck must be free-standing (not attached to the house), no more than 30 inches high, and have less than 120 feet of flooring.

Regular decking that is not up to code may be reported by anyone. The deck may cause serious harm to someone, leaving you liable for their injuries and open to being sued. This is going to cost far more than getting a permit and having regular inspections.

Your insurance company will also refuse to pay for damages if they found out that your deck was built without a permit. So if you were to be sued, you’d be paying for everything yourself.

Decks that are up to code, but built without a permit, might go unnoticed. However, if you were to ever try to sell your home, you might be required to provide proof of obtaining a permit. 

Some financial institutions will insist on an inspection report before the purchase can be made. If there is no evidence that the deck was built with a permit, there’s a high chance you will be asked to dismantle it and start again. There’s also a chance that the value of your home will be forced down if buyers find out about it.

If you already have a deck that does not have a permit, you can obtain one for the existing structure. This process involves drawing up all the plans for the deck as if you were building it yourself, applying through your local city, and having an inspector look at it. 

If it is not up to code, which may have changed since it was built, you will be required to tear down the sub-standard sections and rebuild as directed by the inspector.

I’m sure the reason you’re reading this article is because you want to do the right thing when you build your deck. I hope you’ve found the answers you were looking for and enjoy the process of building your very own deck.

Click here to visit our Deck Building Services page to learn more about what we do.

Hey NoCo, interested in talking to someone here at TNT today about your project, give us a call at 970-663-2868. You can also reach us right here on the website for instant chat (bottom right) or email us at sales@tnthomeimprovements.com

What is Underdecking?

We have built so many 2nd story decks over the past 15 years and so many of them create a space underneath them that is dark and uninviting. To keep that patio space under your deck dry and give it a finished feel then you need underdecking.

Underdecking is a system of panels, channels, or chutes that are designed to catch the water that leaks between the decking and joists of a deck. The water is directed to gutters and downspouts. Underdecking creates a finished look and feel, effectively creating more livable space under a deck.

If this sounds like the solution your deck needs to make that patio area a usable one, then let’s dive into what makes up an underdecking system and what this project will cost.

mobile-fort-collins-wood-deck-underdecking

What do you put under a second-story deck to keep it from dripping onto a patio below?

Well, underdecking of course! So the underdecking systems that we install are made up of a few main parts:

  • The Track 
  • The Outer Frame Pieces (g and j channel)
  • The Gutter (and downspouts)
  • The Panels

How do you install Underdecking?

To start the underdecking project, we will first assess all of the different variables surrounding your deck. We will of course already have the materials in hand so we are not trying to assess what we need, but rather exactly how to install in with your current deck setup.

The first thing that needs to be figured out is fall; as in, water-fall. We need to decide which direction we want the water to flow, towards the house or away from the house. Now some of you might be thinking, why on earth would you want to direct water back towards the house? 

A scenario where you would potentially want something like this is when the house has gutters leading down the house into underground PVC. This ‘system’ for directing the water underground and away from the house would be a great place to tie into so in this instance, we would recommend channeling the water toward the house and into the underground system.

After the gutter location is decided, measurements have to be taken to make sure that the whole system will have enough fall to direct water into that gutter. Some things to note at this stage are things like deck framing lumber. Meaning, what framing material did they use to build the deck? If the frame is smaller material like 2×6 for instance, you will have less material under the deck to attach the outer frame to. In fact, some material may need to be added like framing material or even fascia material to hide the sides of the system if it hangs too low.

Putting up the tracks

After the plan is finalized the tracks can start to go up. The tracks are these really long (12ish feet) black metal pieces that have small teeth built into them that hang down from the ceiling ready to grab the panels. These teeth are designed for the finished panels to snap into.

The number of tracks that you put up will depend on your project but you will essentially be putting up supports to hold the panels and should they start to get weight in them, ie water, it will get heavy out there in the middle of the deck. For a smaller deck, you may only need 1 or 2 rows of tracks where a larger deck may need 2 or 3 rows.

Each row of tracks will have to start at the same place so that they are all lined up perfectly. The rows will also have to be at different heights from the ceiling depending on the fall needed for your specific project. These are generally held up with a 3 to 4-inch screw that’s hanging down a bit so that you can adjust the whole track up and down.

Creating the frame

Now the frame pieces are coming out of the boxes and onto the job site horses. These pieces are aluminum that feature a faux wood finish of your color choice. They are also very long pieces, somewhere in the 12-16-foot range, and have a couple of different shape profiles.

The two different shapes can be seen looking down the ends of the frame channels. One looks like a G and one looks a J. These different shapes make up the side panels and back panels of the frame and the fourth piece of the rectangle would be the gutter.

Every deck can be so different so this process really is a custom one. Ideally, you want the gutter to be one seamless piece covering the outside edge of the deck. Then two side panels what are cut down in just right into the gutter back to the house with the last part of the frame across the siding. What can get tricky is if you have large columns and/or if you have stone! Now you are freestyling with your frame creation skills.

The gutter needs fall from the middle of the deck towards the outsides in most cases. Make sure you have a 4-foot level handy and can make sure that water will actually leave this system. Near both ends of the gutter, you will want to drill/ cut out for your downspout inserts. These plastic inserts and the end caps will need to be installed with the help of some gutter sealant.

Getting the tracks and the frame installed are the most time-consuming parts of the entire project. There is so much calculating and the material that does go up doesn’t really cover anything, it’s just the skeleton so far. But after you get to this point, this is where the project really starts to fly.

Putting up the panels

Now all that’s left is to put up the aluminum panels that make up the finished ceiling. These panels are also an area of color choice with the faux wood or plain white. We will use special saw blades to cut them to just the right length and account for any custom shapes.

The panel goes in up and over the gutter, and then are pulled into place inside the outer perimeter’s ‘C’ channel. Once that first panel is installed into place, the rest go up with amazing speed. The panels have a lip that goes into the black metal track we installed earlier and then we just snap the other side closed into the teeth.

The metal teeth snap-in system makes for a no-fastener, very beautiful finish that can also be taken back apart if necessary.

Now it time to just let everything seal and set and then test it out. After the gutter sealant has complete cured you can grab the hose and start spraying down the deck with water while someone is watching underneath the deck to see if there are any trouble spots. If so, reassess with caulk and if not, enjoy your new space.

If you would like to talk to someone right now about a quote for your specific project goals, then give us a call at 970-663-2868.

At TNT Home Improvements we’ve been building decks, patio covers, pergolas, and installing new windows and siding since 2005. Please give us a call or visit the contact us page to learn more about getting underdecking installed under your deck.

Is It Better to Replace A Deck Or Repair It?

TNT-Loveland-Deck-Repair-vs-Replace

It almost goes without saying that maintenance is essential in order to keep outdoor equipment in good working order. That also goes for infrastructure. Just as your lawnmower requires oil – so do fixtures like decks require maintenance. It is a fact of life that environmental factors can place huge stresses on outdoor fixtures such as decks, especially if they are built with natural materials such as wood.

Without that all-important maintenance, a wooden deck will suffer from exposure to the elements. Harsh sun and temperature fluctuations can be especially damaging to wooden decks. However, when viewing the damage most homeowners will be torn between having the deck repaired or replaced – what is the best option?

The first step is to ensure that you pay attention to the deck and its state of repair. An in-depth look at the state of the deck is absolutely essential in order to make a value judgment as to whether it might be a candidate for repair or replacement.

There are several things that need to be taken into account.

The first of these is to take a good long look at the surface of the deck including things like handrails. Moisture can wreak havoc with decks that are not sealed or have not had the sealing maintained. There is also the effect of UV rays which can play their part in degrading the natural fibers of the wood. Once that seal is degraded moisture can enter the deck and cause swelling which will inevitably lead to further damage.

The second part of judging the health of the deck is to check the posts. These are the foundation of a healthy deck. Due to the fact that they are vertical and hidden by the superstructure of the deck they are not usually exposed to direct Uv rays or the effects of pooled water. However, the base of the posts may be subjected to the effects of accumulated water.

There are a variety of ways in which a deck can be damaged. These can range from simple wear and tear to the effects of climate. However, there comes a time when every homeowner has a decision to make when it comes to repairing or replacing a deck. The issue boils down to one simple question: Is it more cost-effective to repair that deck or replace it completely?

It all comes down to dollars and cents – and the scale of the repairs that might need to be made. If a deck shows issues in one particular area it may not mean that the entire structure should be replaced. However, it is essential that the homeowner who wants to return his or her deck to ‘as new’ condition consult with experts like the ones we have here at TNT. The reason for this is simple. The deck may appear to only need cosmetic attention – however, there may be hidden dangers that affect the health of the deck. One of those is one that affects the older decks. Those decks might have support posts that were inserted directly into the soil. Modern best practice is to use footers – which limit the damage that standing water (or a high water table) can cause. Posts inserted into raw soil can suffer from rot – and an experienced and professional deck specialist will be able to advise homeowners on the best path forward should rot affect one or more posts.

That same professional should also be able to judge whether the deck is in need of repair rather than replacement in terms of the health of the beams. These Beams are the basis for the support of the deck. Damaged beams can spell doom for a deck. They are expensive to repair or replace. The sheer amount of time required to replace beams will mean that the homeowner is paying (per hour) more than the value of an entirely new deck.

If the deck requires remedial help there are a number of different options when it comes to material. The latest composite boards, for instance, mimic the look and texture of natural wood and have a variety of advantages over the natural material.

In fact, the decision to replace a deck should take into account the return on investment. Research has shown that a deck makes the home more attractive to buyers. A deck should be seen as a long term investment. However, that longevity should not mean that the deck requires constant maintenance.

The idea that a deck should require that much care and attention is firmly in many homeowner’s minds. Some go so far as to view a deck as an annoyance rather than an asset. However, on the other side of the fence, there are those who enjoy the convenience and lifestyle options that a deck provides.

These two opposing mindsets mean that judging whether or not to repair or replace a deck (or eliminate it altogether) may not be made logically. It is then when the services of a professional are most urgently needed.

One of our qualified and experienced deck specialists will conduct an in-depth examination of the state of the deck – and do all the calculations required to give you the peace of mind of knowing that the decision whether or not to repair the deck – or have it replaced entirely was the right thing to do.

It is also worth remembering that a skilled deck advisor will be able to offer a number of repair options when it comes to restoring a deck to its ‘as new’ status. This may mean using newer materials that are not natural – but that enhance, rather than detract from the visual appeal of the deck.

A deck is an asset in many different ways. It adds to the value of what for many will be the biggest investment they will ever make – a property. However, there is another investment that the homeowner will be making. A deck adds to the emotional wellbeing of a family. It is a place in the sun where the family can simply be with one another. So when that decision of whether to replace or repair that deck, consider the options carefully. Give TNT Home Improvements a call today at 970-663-2868. Click here if you would like to learn more about our deck building services.

Whether Big or Small, We Have Commercial and Residential Deck Services Guaranteed to Fit Your Needs!

pic of a three story triple deck w/under decking built in fort collins, co

A custom deck can be the touch that ties together all the design elements in your home, or even in a commercial building such as an office or restaurant. Having a place where people can enjoy the outdoors together also makes your home or commercial building more useful and friendly to everyone who spends time there.

There are lots of deck builders out there, but if you are looking for a deck builder in Loveland, CO, you don’t want to rush into anything. Instead, you want to ensure that you’re doing business with the best.

Why we’re the best

TNT Home Improvements is a locally owned and operated small business in the Loveland, CO area. We have a licensed engineer who oversees all of our projects and helps provide insight on every project, both large and small. You should do business with us because we are fully insured and licensed, so you’ll never be stuck with any surprises. We have years and years of collective experience on staff, and additionally have been in business for over 13 years. We provide free 3D CAD designs to help visualize your finished deck before we start working on it, so there is very little room for surprise! We also offer free estimates, so you won’t spend a dime unless you hire us to be your deck builders.

We have a large portfolio of successfully built and beautiful decks, and we can turn our significant experience and expertise toward your project to guarantee an attractive deck at the most competitive price.

How it works

We do both residential and commercial deck building projects, and remember, we offer free estimates! When we begin work, we’ll first get a rough idea of what your vision is for your deck. Then we’ll study your home or building, and help visualize a style of deck that matches the existing architecture, getting an understanding of the scope of the project with the help of our on-staff engineer. We’ll get an idea here of what sort of decking material you need, the square footage of the decking, the style and any problems we’re likely to run into during construction. If you decide to work with us, we work hard, and are good at staying on time and budget. We work efficiently because we put a premium on excellent communication between our team and you, the customer. And when we’ve completed our work, you’ll have the most elegant deck in the neighborhood.

Schedule today

If you think you would like to work with TNT Home Improvements, because quality workmanship, honesty and expertise matter to you, give us a call today to request a free estimate and learn more about our services. Don’t worry if you still have questions you’d like answered before moving on. Our friendly, expert staff would be happy to address them!

Contact a deck builder in Loveland, CO

TNT Home Improvements has been a reliable, high-quality deck builder in Loveland, CO since 2005. We are fully licensed and insured, with an engineer on staff who oversees all of our projects. We have many specialties, including building patio covering, roofing, siding and of course our extensive work as deck builders and much, much more. We’ve built our name on exceptional service, professionalism and quality craftsmanship, and we are very proud of our work. Please call today for a free estimate. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Choosing the Best Materials for Deck Building in Loveland, CO

pic of a wood deck built in Loveland featuring built in seating and lighting

Building a deck can be an excellent way to improve your home’s appearance, increase its value, add functionality and boost curb appeal. When you decide to undertake deck building in Loveland, CO, you probably have specific things in mind that you want to gain from the project. Whether you are looking for something that looks incredible or you simply want an affordable home feature that you can use for entertaining, you will have to carefully consider which materials you want to use for your deck. Thankfully, by considering your specific needs, you can narrow down your options and determine which type of material is best for you:

  • Cost-efficiency: If your main concern is cutting costs, pressure-treated wood is the way to go. It is very affordable and it is available almost everywhere. This option is popular among consumers, and about three-quarters of all decks are built with pressure-treated wood. Although your initial investment with pressure-treated lumber will be relatively low, it’s also worth considering that this type of material doesn’t always hold up well over time. Even though you’ll pay less up front, you will likely need to have it replaced sooner.
  • Weather resistance: Durability is the most notable characteristic of composite decking. This material, which is made mainly from wood fibers and recycled plastic, is resistant to weather and stains so it can withstand a number of extreme circumstances. Composite decking also comes in a wide number of styles and colors so you can customize the appearance of your deck to fit your specific tastes and preferences.
  • Aesthetic: For homeowners who are picturing the raw, rich aesthetic that natural wood materials offer when it comes to deck construction, two clear choices are redwood and cedar. They are known for their distinctive natural coloring that creates a look that is both organic and beautiful. The oils that are naturally present in these woods make them resistant to decay, rot and insect infestation. Although redwood and cedar are appealing choices for deck building in Loveland, CO, they can be prohibitively expensive depending on the budget that you are working with.
  • Distinction: For a decking option that is, above all else, unique, exotic hardwoods make for a striking choice. Woods like ipe and Philippine mahogany are dense, rich-grained, durable and naturally rot and insect resistant. Although using tropical hardwoods will give you a deck that is truly one-of-a-kind, you should keep in mind that this is an expensive option and that the material itself can be difficult to work with.

Regardless of what your priorities are when it comes to deck building in Loveland, CO, you should find a team of home improvement professionals who can help make your vision a reality. At TNT Home Improvements, we understand that everyone has different tastes, preferences and goals for their home, which is why we work with you to customize a plan that fits your specific needs. We are fully licensed and insured and equipped with the knowledge necessary to provide you with the best service available. We have years of experience providing home improvement services that allow you to transform your home. Contact us today to learn more!

Click here to learn more about our deck building services.

The Importance of Hiring a Professional Deck Builder in Loveland, CO

pic of a builder cutting wood with a skill saw

Building a deck is a fantastic way to improve your home. Not only does it offer a place where you can enjoy outdoor recreation just steps from your door, but it also increases your home’s curb appeal and can even boost its value on the real estate market. If you’re gearing up for a deck building project, you have a lot of things to consider. From the materials that you choose to buy to the dimensions of the deck you want to build, there are several important decisions you will have to make.

One of the things you need to consider is whether you will be building your deck yourself or getting help from a professional deck builder in Loveland, CO. You might think that doing the work on your own is worth the potential savings, but there are certain benefits to hiring a professional that should be taken into account:

pic of a three story triple deck w/under decking built in fort collins, co

 

  • Quality of the design:

    If you are not professionally trained and experienced in completing home construction projects, you will likely not be able to achieve the same quality that a professional deck builder in Loveland, CO will be able to offer. When you work with a deck builder, they will be able to consult you on your specific space and work with you to create a design that is both beautiful and functional.

  • Compliance with regulations:

    There are certain regulations and permits that apply to construction projects like deck building. Professional deck patio builders will be able to build to code and ensure that the project is done in compliance with all relevant guidelines that apply in your city and state.

  • Experience:

    The more experience a deck builder has, the more they are able to handle a project with a high level of quality and care. If you have never worked on a deck building project before, you likely won’t be able to bring the same degree of care and quality that a professional will.

  • Knowledge of materials:

    One of the most important decisions you have to make about your deck is what type of materials you will be using. When you work with a professional, you will be able to consult with them and find out which materials are best for your budget and the climate in your area. Certain materials will be able to stand up better over time, and professionals will be able to help you determine the best option for your situation.

If you’re ready to work with a professional deck builder in Loveland, CO and get started on turning your vision for a deck into a reality, get in touch with TNT Home Improvements. We strive to offer our customers the best when it comes to deck building, siding, window installation and patio covers. Our family owned and operated company has been in business for over a decade and we continue to provide our clients with the best when it comes to home improvement. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get a completely free estimate.

Looking for a deck estimate for your next outdoor project? Give TNT Home Improvements a call at 970-663-2868 or fill out the contact form at https://tnthomeimprovements.com