Top Deck

Building A Deck That Lasts

When homeowners build a deck onto their home they are most likely doing so with the intention to enjoy it as a living space for years to come. Here are ten tips on how to build a deck that will last throughout the years.

Foundations

Clearly by the definition of the word, the foundation of a deck is exactly that, the foundation. Proper foundation and foundation support is absolutely critical to building a deck that lasts through the years. Depending on the area of the country in which you live, and the soil conditions upon which you will be building your deck, the type of foundation you will need may differ. For instance, cold climate areas like the north and North West require deeper foundation footings that reach below the frost line, to ensure a properly stable footing for deck posts. Without proper footings, the deck may shift, making it unstable and diminishing its structural integrity.

Support

To build a deck that lasts, it is important to pay attention to the support posts that hold up the deck. The posts need to be the proper size and material for the deck they are supporting. Concrete should be poured between the foundation footings and support posts in order to provide a solid base. Always remember that the more support posts under a deck, the more stable it will be.

Attachment

The location where the deck meets the house is an important thing to pay attention to ensure longevity for your deck. Use proper techniques in attaching the deck to the house to keep the deck from pulling away from the house. The ledger board, which is the piece of lumber used to attach the deck to the home, should be attached with flashing behind it to keep moisture from seeping into the home at this location. Make sure the ledger is perfectly centered and securely nailed into the floor joist of the home.

Fasteners

Use the proper fasteners to connect joists and posts, so that these elements don't shift and become a problem in the stability of your deck.

Joists

Deck joists are the horizontal support beams that run from edge to edge of the deck, supplying the horizontal support to hold the flooring of the deck.  Because these joists hold the floor of the deck, the size and placement of these joists will determine whether your deck feels solid or springy when walking across it. The narrower the joist lumber is, the closer together you should place your joists. Choose joist lumber very carefully. Do not choose any pieces that aren't perfectly straight.

Joist Support

Even support needs to be supported, so what's holding up your joists? In a large deck, a crossbeam is usually installed to add additional support for the load. For small decks, this isn't usually necessary, although it can provide support to increase the lifetime of your deck. Blocking between joists can also strengthen the entire floor structure, which will also add more stability and reliability.

Lumber

The selection for the lumber used in the flooring of the deck will definitely make a big difference in how long your deck will last. There are three primary types of lumber to choose from when it comes to decking. These are pressure treated pine, red cedar, and redwood. All three are excellent choices for decking, as they are all very strong, solid woods, each offering a different finish for your deck.

Weatherproof

Although the decking woods listed above are better equipped for weather than other lumber, it is still important to preserve your deck with a weather protector in order to maintain their condition. Apply a wood stain or sealant every couple of years to maintain protection from sun and water.

Vinyl

Although natural wood decks are the most commonly built, natural wood is no longer the only option in decking materials. Vinyl materials have been introduced to the market and are becoming an increasing trend in recent deck construction. Vinyl materials are virtually maintenance free, with a clean look and prefinished materials.

Composite

Another choice in building materials is composite decking. Composite decking is a very dense mixture of wood and vinyl, giving it a more natural look than vinyl, but maintaining the virtually maintenance free nature of vinyl. Composite deck components are bolted together and make a very durable and sturdy structure.

Whether you build your deck from natural wood or prefinished manufactured materials, we all have the same goal; to enjoy our outdoor deck for years to come. The structure under the deck is the most vital section of construction and with a properly built foundation, frame and joists, your deck will serve your outdoor leisure needs for years to come.

 

About the Author

About Garuda-Decks:

Garuda Custom Decks, Inc. provides custom design and construction for various yard projects such as screen porches, decks, arbors, gazebos and more. Based in Cary, NC, they serve the Triangle area of North Carolina. They aim to provide hassle-free solutions for yard construction with a focus on quality design, materials, construction, price and service. For more information, visit http://www.Garuda-Decks.com

Contact-

http://www.Garuda-Decks.com

marketing@garuda-decks.com

 

Best 5 Cruise Ship Activities

• Eat. You might think this is obvious. We need food to live right, so what's so great about cruise food? well cruise liners will often have some the best restaurants that you will find anywhere and menu's that reflect the part of the world that you are in at the time. Make the most of having some world class chefs all in the same place by trying out food from all the eateries.

• Swim. The majority of boats have more than one pool on board where you can have a splash about, swim some lengths or sunbath on a lilo. The sun will be your to enjoy all day long as well due to fact there is nothing for miles around that will cause a shadow. More modern liners even have wave-riding machines or flumes on board so make the most while you can.

• Casino. You should definitely experience the buzz of the casino, even if they whole thing is a little bit out of your comfort zone. The best place place to meet new people in a relaxed and fun environment in the casinos. They always have a great atmosphere and you could even leave with more money than you went in with. The Blackjack table should be the starting point for the uninitiated and don't think you have to empty your pockets to enjoy yourself. It’s easy to pick up and blackjack players are some of the friendliest around.

• Bar. There will be a number of different bars all over the ship and some luxury cruises are all inclusive, so there is no excuse not to sample some liquid delights. The bar staff can whip up a margarita or long island ice tea in seconds, but why not make their day and ask for something that's not on the menu. Get them to suggest their favourite tipple or ask for something traditional to a country you are visiting and they will amaze you with their cocktail making skills.

• Shows. Cruise ships only book top quality acts to entertain their passengers so you’re certain to leave with a smile on your face if you book in for one of the evening shows. Ask the staff around the ship for their recommendations and cruise reviews. They’ve likely seen many of the acts a number of times so can give you the insider info.

What is the chance that the top card in a well shuffed deck will be a two or a nine?

Also, what is the chance that the seventh card from the top of the deck will be a two or a nine?

2/13 chance that the top card is a 2 or a nine.

52 cards in a standard deck.
4 of them are 2's
4 of them are 9's

The top card has an 8 in 52 chance of being a 2 or a 9.
(8/52 is the same as 2/13)

Grand opening ceremony held for The Continuum (ufl.edu)

GAINESVILLE, Fla. --- Provident Resources Group and Capstone Companies hosted
a grand-opening ceremony Thursday for The Continuum, a housing community
designed for University of Florida graduate/professional students, faculty and
staff.

ufl.edu

Topdeck of the Century