Summer is right around the corner. Warm weather, long days by the pool and cookouts call for a celebration. If you need to get your outdoor space in tip-top shape for the summer months ahead, we’ve got you covered with quick tips and weekend flips. Quick Tips: Sun Exposure Sunshine is great but too much sun can make it uncomfortable to enjoy your outdoor space. When building a deck or other outdoor structure, pay attention to the orientation of the sun. For example, if you build a pergol...

Say “No” to notching pressure-treated deck posts. We want you to build an outdoor railing system that you, your family and guests can enjoy without worrying about safety issues. In order to do so, you need to know this building shortcut is not advisable, and we recommend avoiding it at all costs. When you notch your railing posts, creating a lip that extends over the deck or porch boards, the outward thrust is significantly reduced. Unfortunately, notching railing posts is a practice...

Let’s face it: Homeownership comes with an array of projects. Some of these projects can be small, and some can become quite large. Depending on what you have on your to-do list, determining if you should take on a project or reach out to a contractor is an important decision. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before getting started: Is it more cost-effective if I do the job? Do I have the right equipment for this project? If no, then I need to consider those cost...

When you’re ready to install that backyard deck you’ve been wanting, you may be thinking to yourself, “Where do I even begin?” That’s a good question to ask, and most homeowners have asked themselves that same question. From the planning stages to design all the way to installation, ProWood® can help you determine where to begin. After all, we do know a thing or two about decks. Plan A standard deck size is either going to be 10’ x 10’ or 12’ ...

Extend your living space to the outdoors by building a pergola. Not only do pergolas provide some privacy, but they can also provide shade to an area that receives too much sunlight. Pergolas allow you to create an additional living space that can serve as a cozy entertaining space for your backyard. Queue the beverages! Let’s not waste any more time ─ start building your pergola with ProWood® now! These instructions call for two individuals to construct an 8’x8’ square p...

What exactly is KDAT Lumber? Not all pressure-treated lumber is created equal. KDAT stands for Kiln Dried After Treatment. KDAT lumber has ALL the same weather-beating durability as traditional treated wood, but with the added bonus of being kiln dried. The lumber used for KDAT is spaced evenly in a kiln and exposed to a specific temperature for removing excess moisture. Through this process, kiln-dried lumber is less prone to shrinking, cupping or warping after being installed. Here’s ...

Did you know the average life expectancy of a pressure-treated deck can be up to 20 years? In order to maximize the lifespan of your deck, you’ll first need the proper treated wood. Download our Treated Lumber Standards Chart to educate yourself. Second, you’ll want to keep up on regular deck maintenance each season because we all know Mother Nature is a powerful force! Debris, like leaves, often get stuck in between boards and, over time, can cause rot and decay. As soon as rotti...

Finding professional-grade treated lumber that is built to last can be difficult. Lumber's greatest enemy often comes from natural elements. These elements can range from termites, fungi and marine borers to rain, sun and wind. However, thanks to over 50 years of research, ProWood® can stand up to every threat, providing decades of use. NEVER SETTLE for anything less. We utilize a treatment method developed by Koppers that uses micronized copper preservatives. This helps protect ProWood ag...

Strong foundation, stronger reputation. Build a deck that will last for years to come by properly installing deck posts. First off, mark where deck posts will stand in the yard. There are several ways to set deck posts; we recommend attaching the posts to concrete footers above the ground. This helps to prevent wooden posts from rotting. Set footers a minimum of 6” below the frost line for your area to prevent movement during freezing temperatures. Pour about 6 inches of all-purpose grav...

When adding a deck to your home, it’s important to take your time and get it right. Avoid these common building mistakes to ensure your outdoor living space is built to last. Footings and Posts Footings are crucial to the structural integrity of your deck. This is no place for shortcuts as properly installed footings prevent your deck from sinking. First things first: Call 811 before digging to avoid underground utilities. Holes should be dug below the frost line to avoid the effects of co...