Decks Summerville SC can be a great way to add extra living space for entertaining or just enjoying the outdoors. However, choosing a deck that will look good and stand up to the elements is important.
A deck is a flat structure that’s typically built outdoors, elevated above the ground level, and connected to a home. It can be used for social activities like barbecues and parties, or as a quiet spot to relax and unwind. It also provides a perfect vantage point for enjoying the surroundings. It can be constructed from a variety of materials, including wood and composite. It can be designed to fit the space and style of the house, and there are decking experts who can help you build a custom outdoor space.
The main purpose of a deck is to provide a comfortable and safe place to relax and enjoy the scenery. To achieve this, the construction of a deck must follow certain guidelines to ensure safety and longevity. These include proper drainage, use of pressure-treated lumber, and installation of a waterproof membrane. The deck should also be built in compliance with the local building codes.
In addition to being a beautiful and functional addition to your property, decks can also add value to your home. This is because they make the transition between indoors and outdoors seamless. In fact, a deck can be a selling point when you decide to put your house on the market. However, it’s important to understand the differences between a deck and other types of outdoor structures such as porches and patios.
A key element of a safe and durable deck is the foundation. Footings are concrete pillars that spread the load of the deck over a larger surface area. They also keep the deck above the frost line, which varies by geographical location. Another important part of the foundation is the joists, which are thick pieces of lumber that support the frame of the deck. The joists are attached to the footings with metal brackets. A rim joist, which is usually the outermost joist, helps to reinforce the deck and resist uplift forces.
You can also use leftover composite decking to build floating shelves for your home. This is a fashionable and functional way to display your belongings, such as family photos or cosmetics. Moreover, you can make use of your extra composite decking boards by building birdhouses or feeders for your favorite birds. These DIY projects are easy and affordable, and they will add a touch of personality to your home.
Railing
While homeowners put a lot of thought into the decking that makes up most of their outdoor lounge space, railing is just as important for finishing off the look and function of any raised outdoor area. Typically located near the edges of a deck, stairs, or balcony, these decorative yet functional elements offer safety and create an outline for laying out furniture.
Traditionally, wood is used to make up most deck and stair railings, but today’s deck builders are also working with a variety of other materials. Composite, PVC and metal railings can be a beautiful and durable option for any deck. The key to choosing the right railing is to match it with the deck and home style for a cohesive look that is uniquely yours.
Traditional railings are constructed of wooden vertical slats, a classic and timeless design. However, a new trend is to use metal or glass panels for railings. This fresh look is a modern take on a classic form and it opens up the possibility to decorate your railing with things like planters and other decor. It’s also a great choice for decks with an open view that may have neighbors close by, since it doesn’t block out the landscape.
These types of railings are often seen on balconies and stairways, but can be used on lower level decks as well. Stainless steel cable railings are another great option for those who want to emphasize robust horizontal lines around the deck, porch or balcony. These railings are also ideal for highlighting other features of the deck, such as lights or planters. They can even be designed to highlight a fire pit or water feature on the deck.
A deck that is frequently used for entertaining can benefit from a drink rail, which provides a flat surface on top of the rails where people can set their drinks when they’re sitting outdoors. This railing idea is often color-coordinated with the deck boards and uses white posts for a clean appearance. It also works well with a wide variety of deck furniture, including wicker and rattan pieces that can provide an attractive contrast to the light wood decking and railings.
Lighting
Lighting is the finishing touch to a beautiful deck and can be used for both safety and ambiance. It also extends the use of your outdoor space into the evening and night. Lighting is especially important in areas where people will be using stairs, railings, or paths. It helps your family and guests to see their way through the space and prevents accidents. It is also a deterrent for potential intruders, as well-lit homes are less likely to be targeted by criminals.
Deck lighting comes in a variety of styles to suit your personal tastes. There are recessed fixtures that can be installed in walls or corners, post cap lights that add a subtle touch to posts and railings, and pathway lights to illuminate walkways for safety and a stylish appearance. There are also color-changing LED lights that can be used to set a specific mood or tone for your outdoor living space.
Regardless of the type of lighting you choose, it is important to consider how your deck will be used. This will help you determine how much light is needed, and where it should be placed to provide optimal functionality and a cohesive aesthetic. Additionally, you should consider your power options and whether or not you want to install controls for your new deck lighting, such as switches, timers, motion sensors, or smart home integration.
Another consideration is the color of your deck lighting. Low-color temperature LED products tend to have a warmer glow, which is more inviting and accentuates the natural beauty of your surroundings. In contrast, high-color temperature LED products have a cooler glow that can create a more clinical or stark feeling.
Once you’ve decided on a style and function for your deck lighting, it is time to choose the best fixtures to complete your project. The experts at McCray Lumber and Millwork can help you find the perfect lighting for your deck, so contact us today to schedule a consultation. You can also visit one of our showrooms in Edwardsville, Olathe, or Lawrence to view featured deck displays and see our lighting solutions for yourself.
Furniture
Furniture is a type of object that is built for human use, often to improve the function and aesthetics of a room. It can include seating, storage, and dining furniture. Furniture can also be used for displaying artwork and other objects. Furniture is made of a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. In addition, it can be designed in a number of styles and finishes. Some pieces of furniture are very simple, while others are highly elaborate.
Furniture can be a great source of pride and self-satisfaction for owners. It can help them express their personality and style, as well as create a welcoming environment for guests. In addition, it can provide a sense of comfort and security. When purchasing new furniture, it is important to consider quality and durability. It is also important to consider how easily the furniture can be repaired if necessary.
The furniture manufacturing process begins with a design. Engineers review the design to ensure that it meets functional, safety, and quality standards. They also determine the materials and manufacturing processes required to produce the furniture. Once the design is finalized, a prototype is created to test its functionality and durability. Engineers may also need to refine the design based on feedback from customers and manufacturers.
Once the prototype is tested, it is ready for production. The manufacturing process involves cutting, shaping, and assembling the various components of the furniture. After the furniture is assembled, it is tested again to ensure that it meets quality and safety standards. Finally, the furniture is packaged and shipped to customers.
The furniture industry has a significant impact on the economy and society. It employs millions of people worldwide and provides jobs for many families. In addition, it has a positive impact on the environment by reducing waste and saving energy. Additionally, it can reduce air pollution by lowering the amount of volatile organic compounds in the air. It can also increase productivity by providing ergonomic chairs and desks.