Hurricane Ties: Uses and Installation
Hurricane ties are hardware pieces that connect the joists to cantilevered beams to reduce uplift forces caused by high winds. These are inexpensive and are a good precaution to use wherever high winds may be a problem, especially in zones where hurricanes and tornadoes are common.
Be sure that the hurricane ties and fasteners are compatible with new pressure-treated lumber. Hurricane ties will not usually be required by your local building department, but they are a cost-effective method of securing your joists over a cantilevered beam that may be lifted by high winds.
Capped Composite Decking
What is capped composite decking? It's a great option if you like the look of wood but not the maintenance. Learn about capped composite at Decks.com.
Best Deck Material Options: Composite, Wood & More
Discover how to make the crucial choice of decking material for your deck. Explore composite and wood decking options, each with unique aesthetics and maintenance needs.
UltraDeck
UltraDeck encapsulated composite decking is manufactured by Midwest Manufacturing Extrusion in Eau Claire, WI.
Cutting a Concrete Pad
Learn how to use a concrete saw to cut a hole in a patio slab to install a deck footing.
Can I reuse existing footings
Our inspector discusses the topic of reusing footings for a new deck.
Installing footings on a sloped yard
Our inspector explains how to install concrete deck footings on uneven ground.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Fence Post Spacing: How Far Apart Should Fence Posts Be?
Spending a little more time and effort up front on determining the best fence post spacing for your deck project, could save you a bunch of time and money when it comes time to build it. Here’s how to do it…
Veranda
Veranda composite decking is manufactured by Louisiana Pacific Corp. in Franklin, TN for Home Depot.
Waterproof Decking Materials & Options
Did you know you can ensure the space under your deck stays dry, or even waterproof your decking boards? Explore all waterproof decking options at Decks.com.
How many footings do I need?
Learn how to determine the number of footings and support posts you need for your deck when designing your deck frame.
Buried Post
Learn how to install a concrete deck footing with a buried treated support post as an alternative to a solid pier foundation.
Soil Conditions
Learn how soil conditions can affect the size of your deck footings. Do you have gravel, sand or clay soil?
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights