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What wood should I use for decking frame?
In general, pressure-treated timber is one of the best options for decking frames due to its cheap cost. Softwoods, such as Cedar and Redwood, are good choices for framing as well, especially if you want a more sustainable and safer option.
Should I use deck boards or 2×6?
2×6 is thicker and is stronger, but is also more expensive. Spacing between deck boards provide a few critical functions. The primary function is to drain water from the deck. Gaps that are narrow (1/8”), can catch debris, specifically on top of the joists, and can be difficult to clean out.
Do I need pressure treated lumber for deck?
It’s better to use treated lumber and know your deck will be secure in a few years than try to use untreated wood for the supports and watch them rot away rapidly. Pressure treated wood doesn’t release any gases or particulates that could harm you and your family.
Can I use 2×4 for deck frame?
The short answer is yes. 2x4s can work for deck joists. 2x4s are the smallest dimensional option, making them great for low, ground-level decking if they’re spaced no further than 12” on center. “On center” is the term to measure from one joist to the next, starting from one center to the center of another.
Can I use 2×4 for deck joists?
The short answer is yes. 2x4s can work for deck joists. However, they aren’t ideal for spanning long distances without bending or breaking, so you have some limitations. Choosing 2x4s for a low-sitting deck is perfect for keeping your feet out of the mud.
What is better for a deck cedar or pressure treated?
When it comes to comparing treated wood vs. cedar, pressure-treated wood is the sturdier and more weather-proof of the two. It’s highly resistant to insect attack and rot, and special versions rated for “ground contact” can be buried in soil and will continue to shrug off decay for decades.
How far apart should joists be on a deck?
Deck joists are typically spaced either every 12 inches or 16 inches on center. The maximum joist spacing you can use will depend on the size and allowable span of your joists.
What kind of wood is best for outdoor decks?
Pressure treated wood is often the most economical option available for outdoor decks. There are a few different types of wood that are commonly pressure treated for decks, but the two most popular are southern yellow pine and douglas fir. You might be wondering, how exactly does pressure treated wood work?
What’s the difference between framing and decking lumber?
For example, the type of wood typically used for framing is different than lumber for decking and railings. Before you begin building a deck, it’s important to get acquainted with the different types of decking lumber, including domestic woods and exotic species.
Which is better wood or vinyl for a deck?
Initially, wood costs significantly less than either vinyl or composite, and if properly constructed and maintained, a wood deck will last for years. And unlike petroleum-based materials, wood is renewable if sustainably harvested. Wood does, however, require more maintenance than other materials.
What kind of wood should I use to build a house?
Each choice has its advantages and disadvantages, so decide which wood best suits your building needs and budget. The three most widely available and suitable exterior lumber choices, not treated with chemical preservatives, include Western red cedar, redwood, and cypress.