Building a Deck That Will Last
Building a Deck That Will Last
A deck is an investment in your home, your lifestyle, and your outdoor living experience. Whether you're looking to entertain guests, create a relaxing retreat, or boost your home’s curb appeal, building a deck that stands the test of time is essential. At Thunderstruck Restorations, LLC, we specialize in creating durable, high-quality decks using the best materials and construction practices available.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key elements of building a long-lasting deck, including footings, framing, materials, and fasteners. We’ll also discuss why choosing the lowest bid might cost you more in the long run. With these insights, you can make informed decisions to ensure your deck remains safe, functional, and beautiful for years to come.
Proper Footings: The Foundation of a Long-Lasting Deck
The foundation is the most critical element of any deck. If the footings are weak or improperly installed, the entire structure can shift, sag, or fail over time.
Why Footings Are Important
Footings provide the stability your deck needs to withstand heavy use, extreme weather, and soil movement. In Minnesota, where frost heave and variable soil conditions are common, choosing the right type of footing is vital to prevent structural issues.
The Benefits of Helical Piles
At Thunderstruck Restorations, we prefer to use helical piles as the footing of choice for our decks. These screw-like metal anchors are driven deep into the ground, providing unparalleled stability and resistance to frost heave. Helical piles are ideal for decks because:
- They can support heavy loads without shifting or settling.
- Installation is quick and minimally invasive.
- They perform exceptionally well in various soil conditions, making them a superior alternative to traditional concrete footings.
With helical piles as the foundation, your deck will remain stable and secure for decades.
High-Quality Framing: The Backbone of Your Deck
While the visible parts of a deck often get the most attention, the framing is the backbone that determines its longevity and structural integrity.
Why Strong Framing Matters
The framing supports the weight of the deck, including furniture, people, a hot tub, a BBQ, and even snow in winter. Poor-quality framing materials or improper installation can lead to sagging, warping, or even collapse over time.
Using Pressure-Treated Wood for Framing
We use pressure-treated lumber for framing because it is specifically designed to resist rot, decay, and insect damage. However, quality framing isn’t just about the material; it’s also about proper construction practices. At Thunderstruck Restorations, we:
- Ensure proper spacing of joists to prevent sagging.
- Use blocking for added stability.
- Treat cuts and ends of pressure-treated wood to maintain rot resistance.
When the framing is built correctly, your deck will have a solid foundation to support it for years to come.
Composite Decking Materials: Durability and Low Maintenance
The choice of decking material plays a significant role in the overall lifespan of your deck. While wood has its charm, composite decking offers unmatched durability and requires minimal maintenance.
Advantages of Composite Decking
Composite decking, made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic, is resistant to rot, mold, and fading. It doesn’t splinter, crack, or warp, making it an excellent choice for homeowners who want a long-lasting, low-maintenance deck.
Recommended Composite Brands
At Thunderstruck Restorations, we work with industry-leading composite decking brands like Trex and Deckorators:
- Trex Enhance and Trex Transcend: Known for their durability, Trex products resist fading, staining, and scratches, and come with extended warranties.
- Deckorators Voyage: This premium composite decking line offers exceptional strength and slip resistance, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
With composite decking, your deck will stay beautiful and functional for decades, without the need for frequent refinishing.
Aluminum Handrails: Stylish and Long-Lasting
Handrails are not just a safety feature; they’re also a design element that enhances the overall look of your deck. Choosing the right material is essential for durability and low maintenance.
Benefits of Aluminum Railings
Aluminum railings are lightweight, rust-resistant, and require virtually no upkeep. They’re designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and UV exposure. Unlike wood railings, they won’t warp, splinter, or decay.
Customization Options
Aluminum railings come in a variety of styles, colors, and finishes, allowing you to create a look that complements your deck. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek design or something more traditional, aluminum railings are a durable, stylish choice that enhances the safety and functionality of your deck.
High-Quality Fasteners: Holding It All Together
Fasteners are the unsung heroes of a deck, keeping everything securely in place. Using high-quality fasteners is critical for a deck’s structural integrity and longevity.
Why Fasteners Matter
Inferior fasteners can corrode over time, leading to instability and potential safety hazards. Proper fasteners ensure that your deck remains secure, even under heavy use and extreme weather.
Choosing the Best Fasteners
At Thunderstruck Restorations, we use stainless steel or coated fasteners that resist rust and corrosion. For composite decks, we use fasteners specifically designed for compatibility to prevent issues like discoloration or material breakdown.
By investing in high-quality fasteners, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your deck remains safe and sturdy for years.
Don’t Choose the Lowest Bid: Why Quality Matters
When building a deck, it’s tempting to choose the lowest bid to save money. However, the cheapest option often comes at a hidden cost: lower-quality materials and shortcuts that compromise the deck’s longevity.
Compare Apples to Apples
If you’re comparing bids, make sure they include:
- Proper footings like helical piles.
- High-quality framing materials and proper construction practices.
- Durable decking materials like Trex or Deckorators.
- Long-lasting railings and fasteners.
Choosing a contractor who cuts corners might save you money upfront, but it can lead to significant expenses later when repairs or even a complete rebuild are needed. A well-built deck may cost more initially, but it’s an investment that pays off in durability, safety, and long-term savings.
Thunderstruck Restorations: Your Partner in Building a Long-Lasting Deck
At Thunderstruck Restorations, we are committed to building decks that stand the test of time. From helical pile footings to premium composite decking and aluminum railings, we use only the best materials and construction practices to ensure your deck is built to last. As a certified TrexPro and Deckorators Certified Pro, we deliver industry-leading craftsmanship and access to top-tier products.
Our Service Areas
We proudly serve homeowners throughout the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area, including:
- Andover
- Blaine
- Coon Rapids
- East Bethel
- Forest Lake
- Ham Lake
- Lino Lakes
- Saint Paul
- Twin Cities
Building a deck that will last requires attention to every detail, from the footings to the fasteners. By choosing high-quality materials, proper construction methods, and a trusted contractor like Thunderstruck Restorations, you can enjoy a beautiful, durable deck for decades to come.
Ready to get started on your dream deck? Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s create an outdoor space that stands the test of time.
