Deck Installation Services & Storm Damage Repair
Our team answers homeowner questions every weekend on WCCO 830 AM from 9:00 am-10:00 am. Have your most pressing home improvement questions answered by calling 651-461-9226. Here’s must-know information from our in-house deck specialist, Luke Panek, shared on 4.16.22.Â
What Are My Decking Material Options?
Wood Decking
Homeowners considering a wood deck should take the time to research the varieties available. Kiln-dried treated pine is an affordable option. This material uses southern yellow pine that is treated with products to make it last longer than regular wood decks. After being treated, the wood is kiln-dried in a treated environment. This leaves the wood with moisture levels that are about 15%. The kiln drying process creates deck boards that will shrink and crack less than traditional deck boards. Traditional wood decks typically have a starting moisture content of 60%-70%. This can lead to warping.
An alternative to kiln-dried wood is Ipe. Ipe is a luxury decking material that is made from South American walnut. The material is very durable and has a long lifespan. The drawback of this material is that its density makes it difficult to install.
Composite Decking
For homeowners considering composite deck installation, it’s important to know that there are many materials to consider. Cellular PVC or capped polymer decking is made without sawdust mixed into it. This creates a more durable product. TimberTech® AZEK® and Millboard® Decking are both examples of cellular PVC decking. The main component of Millboard® decking is limestone. The deck boards look more like wood than almost any other decking material because of its texture. Each board is embossed on a piece of rift swan oak. This allows for wood variation and color.
What Are My Deck Footing Options?
When considering deck installation services, homeowners should ask their contractor which deck footings they recommend and why. Helical piers are a newer innovation. They were designed in Florida to be used over swamps. The piers create a tripod in the earth. The concrete at the top of the footing holds everything together. As the frost moves down, expansion is created between the pins and forces them to stabilize.
How Can Storm Damage Impact My Home?
The effects of a hailstorm can cause homeowners to question if they require a roof replacement estimate or any other storm damage repairs around the residence. Many storm damage repairs needed may not always be evident from the street. A reputable contractor can provide a complimentary inspection to better understand if storm damage restoration is needed. They should advise whether hail damage is present on siding, roofing, gutters, and window wraps.
Roof Lifespan And Replacement Consideration
In terms of lifespan, an average roof installation will last about 15 years. The reasons a roof fails before the end of its lifespan is that many roofing contractors do not follow best practices. Underlayment that only meets building code is not long-lasting. Flashing is often reused and should not be. This makes it so important to hire a quality roofer. It’s a warning sign if your roofing company is not addressing ventilation during the roof installation. Improper levels of roof ventilation can cause it to fail prematurely.