Tips for Designing Your Dream Deck

A properly planned for and constructed deck can add significant value and curb appeal to your home. A place to bring family and friends together outdoors, it also helps make memories.

Here are some tips for bringing your dream into reality.

Deck Location

Using an existing doorway that provides access to your deck is a great place to start. If that is not an option, consider converting an existing window into a door that will allow access to the deck off your home’s kitchen or dining room for ease of access. Another consideration when planning where your new deck will be, is what time of day it is likely to be used and whether you prefer outdoor activities directly in the sun or in the shade.

Deck Size

When determining the size of your deck, consider what types of activities you will be enjoying, as well as how many people will likely be participating in those activities on your new deck. Take into consideration the size of all pieces of outdoor furniture, grill, hot tub or other items you will place on the deck, as well as the deck’s size in proportion to your home and surroundings.

A deck that is 12×12’ could reasonably accommodate a small round patio table and four chairs. On average, most decks range in between 200 and 300 square feet.

Deck Height

To ensure a smooth transition going inside and out, the top of your deck should be just below the bottom of the door’s threshold. Should you want the deck higher or lower to capture a view, or if your lot is sloped, consider building a deck with multi-layers and/or adding stairs. A multi-level deck can add interest to your deck where you can designate certain areas for certain types of activities.

Once you have determined your deck height, be sure to check your local building codes to determine if railings will be needed around the deck at all levels, as those will need to be budgeted in.

Deck Top

With so many decking options to choose from on the market today, finding a budget that works for you and a general idea of the deck material you desire (wood vs. man-made materials) is a great place to start narrowing down what product is right for you for the deck top.

A deck top constructed of Knotty Western Red Cedar will provide many years of service and currently is the most cost-effective option; while the cost of clear grades of Cedar decking will be on the high end of the scale.

If you love the look and feel of real wood and are interested in exploring other decking options, Red Batu, commonly referred to as “Mahogany”, is an extremely durable hardwood that is sustainably harvested and is currently the best priced hardwood decking option we offer. Going up the scale is Ipe “Ironwood”, as well as other exotic hardwoods such as Tigerwood, Purple Heart.

If a deck top constructed out of man-made materials, such as composite or cellular PVC, is more interesting to you, we offer a wide range of products produced by Timbertech and AZEK. Backed with excellent support and warranties, these products have a fairly wide range of price points and colors to select from.

No matter what product you choose, regular cleaning and maintenance will be required. How much of it is determined by the product you choose and the look you want to maintain.

Deck Framing

Now that you have determined the size and height of your deck, as well as the decking you like, configuring the proper framing for the deck is the next order of business. The size of the deck, as well as the number of footings and beams, local building codes, decking type, and manufacturer’s recommendations all need to be factored in.

In general, the framing joists are spaced 16” apart when using a 5/4×6″ decking product, but can vary based on the decking product selected.

Recommended joist spacing for Western Red Cedar Decking

Thickness (in.)	Width (in.)	Grade Category (in.)	Span
1-1/4	4	All clear grade categories	16
1-1/4	4	All knotty grade categories	12
1-1/4	6	All clear and knotty grade categories	16
2	4	All clear and knotty grade categories	24
2	6	All clear and knotty grade categories	24

The joist size need is directly related to the size of the deck. Joists spaced 16 inches on center can span 1.5 times in feet their depth in inches. A 2×8 up to 12 feet; 2×10 to 15 feet and 2×12 to 18 feet.

Using high quality pressure treated lumber is recommended. Use caution when choosing products based solely on price, as there are differences in the type of wood used, as well as pressure treating products and methods.

Deck Fasteners

Selecting the right fasteners for the job is often overlooked until the very last minute, however, all the fasteners and hardware used to construct your deck should be a priority. A properly constructed deck relies on all the connection points of the under framing to stay firmly connected and the deck top to stay securely fastened down.

Fasteners should be selected based on your application, environment, and the material being used. All fasteners for outdoor use should be corrosion resistant, and special care should be taken when selecting products that will be installed near saltwater.

Most decking can be secured using nails, screws or hidden fasteners, and should be selected based on the look you desire, as well as the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Deck Add Ons

Should your new dream deck require a railing, there are countless options in both wood and man-made materials, including powder-coated aluminum, stainless steel cable, composite materials, and glass. These can be mixed and matched is countless options to provide the exact look you desire.

When selecting a railing, always be sure the railing you select complies with local building codes and follow all manufacturer’s recommendations for installation.

Adding built-in planter boxes, benches, timber frame structures or a pergola can help define your deck as a custom outdoor living area. To elevate the feeling of your new outdoor living area to a welcoming extension of your home, add lighting, a fireplace or patio heater, and carefully selected accessories.

Need some inspiration to help you visualize your dream deck? We have a great gallery of projects on Pinterest just waiting for you!

For help in selecting the right materials for your job, as well as help designing your dream deck, please contact our team of professionals to assist you.

Call us today 360.757.6343

We Ship Nationwide!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Rain Screen Siding Installation Q&A

Aug18

What is Rain Screening?

In the quest to find better moisture management and energy efficiency, more architects and builders are experimenting with exterior siding using rain screen installation methods. Basically, rain screening is a system, not an actual “thing”, that is used to create an air gap between the exterior siding (cladding) and a water-resistant barrier that is installed over the sheathing of the structure.

By creating an air cavity between the moisture barrier and the exterior siding, this double-wall construction uses the outer layer (the exterior siding) to keep the rain out, while the inner layer (an air/moisture barrier) provides thermal insulation and prevents excessive air leakage. It also allows any moisture that may pass through the siding to easily drain away, as well as accelerates evaporation of any residual moisture within the walls. In the event that any water does collect behind the exterior cladding, the air gap allows it to dry, which prevents moisture build-up and rot.

Rain screening is created by attaching vertical furring strips that are generally 1/4 – 3/8″ thick, by 2 – 3.5″ wide, using plywood or other treated wood strips, plastic mats, or other rain screen system creating materials, over a water-resistant barrier, such as tar paper. Flashing is then installed over any penetrations and all vulnerable areas where water may pool or collect to allow it to evaporate and/or drain away. Finally, the exterior siding is installed by adhering it to the furring strips, thus creating the air gap behind for airflow.

Be sure to contact your local building department for specific codes on rain screen installation in your area and follow all manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure the success of your project.

In these photos, 1×6 Alaskan Yellow Cedar dimensional boards were used as exterior siding over rain screening. Simply beautiful, durable and eco-friendly. Alaska Yellow Cedar, also referred to as Nootka Cypress, has almost always been identified by the species label nootkatensis (so named for the Nuu-chah-nulth people of Canada). However, the genus of the tree has been changed many times, with the most recent being in the Cuypressus genus.
photo and craftsmanship by Kreider Construction of Anacortes, WA

Although rain screening installation costs more than more traditional U.S. exterior siding methods, it can prevent costlier problems, such as rot and decay, later on. It can also add green benefits to your project due to the thermal insulation properties, and add to the longevity of the structure and the building materials used, thus reducing waste.

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Toll-Free 866.757.6343 Fax 360.757.6343

We Ship Nationwide!

Wood Siding Profile Choices

Aug15

One of the most defining elements to any home is the exterior siding. With so many choices of materials to choose from, it can be challenging to make a decision. However, nothing can compare with the real warmth and beauty that natural wood provides. It is readily available, easy to work with, and is one of the most Eco-Friendly building products available; and with proper care and maintenance, it will provide many years of service.

Following are a few of the most popular styles of wood siding that are available in Western Red Cedar, Alaskan Yellow Cedar or most any other durable hard or softwood. Some are readily available, especially in Western Red Cedar, while others would need to be milled, which is one of our specialties.

To save you money and precious time on the job site, we can arrange to have your siding package pre-stained with a factory flood coat of most any solid, semi-solid or transparent stain of your choice. If you prefer to add color to your exterior siding with paint, pre-priming can be done on almost any siding package. By having your priming or pre-stain performed at the factory, all four sides of your siding will receive a nice even coat in a temperature-controlled environment, free of dirt and debris.

BEVELED (also commonly referred to as Clapboard) SIDING

Economical and beautiful, bevel siding is the most widely-used Western Red Cedar siding type. It is produced by re-sawing lumber at an angle to produce two pieces thicker on one edge than the other. Depending on customer preference, it is provided with either a smooth or textured face in both clear and knotty grades.

Bevel siding is installed horizontally to provide a shadow line that varies with the thickness of siding selected.

Available in many widths and thicknesses, this is just one of the many choices of Beveled Siding

Available in 16′ lengths, Clear, Finger-Jointed Bevel Western Red Cedar Siding is an attractive and very cost-effective choice when paint will be applied; providing all the performance and beauty of premium cedar siding.

Another interesting type of bevel siding is Skirl or “wavy” siding. Perfect for a rustic look. **currently unavailable 8/16/2021**

BOARD AND BATTEN

Board-and-batten siding is created when wide clear or knotty Western Red Cedar (or other material) boards are installed vertically with narrower boards, called battens, installed vertically over the joints. There are endless combinations of board widths that can be used to create this classic siding pattern suitable for large or small-scale applications; the most frequent being 1×3” battens with 1×10” or 1×12” boards. Additionally, the installation of the boards can be reversed with the wider boards installed over the battens to create a deep channel effect.

Classic Western Red Cedar Board and Bat Siding

A real cost saver when using this siding choice can be achieved by using “green” or unseasoned Western Red Cedar.

TONGUE AND GROOVE SIDING

Tongue and groove siding, commonly referred to as “T&G”, is created by boards that have been manufactured to have one protruding rib (tongue) on one edge and a groove on the other edge, so that the tongue from one board fits into the groove on the next board. By far the most versatile siding option, Western Red Cedar Tongue & Groove siding can be installed horizontally, vertically or diagonally. It is available with rough or smooth faces in various widths and thicknesses, as well as grades and patterns, including ones that when installed create a slight groove between the two pieces.

There are many readily available styles “off the shelf” in Western Red Cedar, and there is also the possibility of creating endless custom patterns in both Western Red and Alaskan Yellow Cedar, as well as other woods including Mahogany and other hardwoods such as Ipe.

Clear, Western Red Cedar Ship Lap and Channel siding are manufactured to order, as well as Ship Lap in Channel patterns in Alaskan Yellow Cedar and other exotic and domestic soft and hardwoods.

LOG CABIN SIDING

A perfect complement to your rustic home at a fraction of the price of building a log cabin, as the whole log is not used. This siding is manufactured with a flat back that makes installation over traditional structures easy and cost-effective with beautiful results. Log sidings are available in different sizes, in both Western Red Cedar and Spruce.

SHIPLAP and CHANNEL PATTERNS

Lap siding, available in many widths and thicknesses, is manufactured to have grooves on both sides that allow the boards to be installed over each other to create a waterproof barrier. Lap siding expands and contracts with changes in temperature without cracking or buckling, which makes it a very desirable siding choice in colder climates.

Channel siding is a popular type of lap siding that has a ½” overlap and a 1” to 1-1/4” reveal, that when installed, creates a channel between the boards. Normally supplied in unseasoned Western Red Cedar knotty grades, this product is commonly used when a rustic appearance is desired.

Because of the overlapping properties (one end of the board has a recessed area along its rear which receives the shaped top-rear end of the board next to it) it provides excellent weather protection while allowing for dimensional movement when installed vertically. However, it may also be installed horizontally or diagonally.

Clear, Western Red Cedar Shiplap and Channel siding are manufactured to order, as well as Shiplap in Channel patterns in Alaskan Yellow Cedar and other exotic and domestic hard and softwoods.

For tips on installing your Western Red Cedar Siding, please visit HERE

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA 98233 – WE SHIP NATIONWIDE!

Toll Free 866.757.6343

Western Red Cedar – The Ultimate Choice for Mobile Buildings and Tiny Homes

Aug9

When researching building material choices for mobile buildings and tiny houses, wood is often chosen because it is lightweight, easy to work with, an excellent thermal insulator, and is readily available.

With so many wood options available in exterior siding, Western Red Cedar is a popular choice due to its low density, durability, natural resistance to decay and rot, as well as its beauty and affordability. Western Red Cedar also works great for interior paneling, as does Pine or Doug Fir when a lighter color palette is desired.

It was great fun to supply the building materials for this mobile bike shop in our local area. Mister Lost’s Mobile Bike Shop brings full-service bike repair right to your door in Whatcom, Skagit and San Juan counties. So cool!

Before your next project, be sure to visit us! We Ship Nationwide!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

ph 360.757.6343

Western Red Cedar – The Environmentally Sound Choice!

Aug2

High on the scale of “green building products” available, Western Red Cedar is one of the most versatile.

As consumers become more and more aware of their environmental footprint, their decision-making process in building materials is changing. Unfortunately, it can sometimes be challenging to determine a particular product’s total environmental impact.

While many building products tout that they are made from recycled materials or are “green” in some way, there are many things to consider when selecting a product. One must consider the energy used to manufacture it, the emissions that are created
during the manufacturing process, as well as how the product will be disposed when its life cycle is complete.

Because of its versatility, Western Red Cedar is used in various residential and commercial building projects, both inside and out. It is available in stress grades for construction, as well as finishing grades in wide variety of lengths, widths, thicknesses and textures. It has high insulation values, looks amazing, and is harvested from the world’s most sustainably managed forests.

And, when its life cycle is complete, Western Red Cedar building materials can be recycled and are 100% biodegradable.

In a 2007 study conducted by Forintek, Canada’s leading forest products research organization, Western Red Cedar decking and siding outperformed man-made materials, used less energy overall, and had a lower impact on the environment, including global warming potential, acidification potential, ozone depletion, and human particulate (respiratory) effects. The only criteria in which it was not a leader, was on Western Red Cedar siding. But, that finding can be traced directly back to the use of paint on the siding, not the natural characteristics of Western Red Cedar itself. Therefore, the consumer would have the ability to improve this rating positively by the choice they make in their paint or stain.

In North America, there are many examples of historic buildings that Western Red Cedar has performed beautifully for hundreds of years and there are also many new buildings that have used reclaimed or repurposed Western Red Cedar lumber. Additionally, when Western Red Cedar trees are harvested, those trees are promptly replanted. For every three trees harvested, eight are planted in British Columbia. While other products increase greenhouse gases, these new cedar trees actually improve the environment; more trees mean more oxygen.

So, when selecting building materials to use in your next project, be sure to consider a natural wood choice; Western Red Cedar.

We Ship Nationwide!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

ph 360.757.6343

Red Batu “Mahogany” Decking Installation and Maintenance

Jul28

Our Red Batu or Balau, commonly referred to as “Mahogany”, hardwood decking is sourced only from countries that are leaders in ecological, sustainable forestry practices. This 100% natural, uniquely beautiful, low-maintenance decking comes with a 25 Year Limited Warranty.

Mahogany Decking

Extremely strong and durable hardwood decking!

Used for over 50 years extensively in the USA and abroad in the most demanding applications such as wharves, boardwalks, fishing boat decks and mineshaft timbers, it is resistant to termites and fungus.

Decking that is easy to maintain!

Penetrating finishes are best at protecting your mahogany deck and minimize
maintenance. We recommend using a finish, such as Penofin, with U.V. inhibitors to reduce fading from sunlight and mildew retardants to minimize black mildew that may form, especially in wet or damp areas. However, if you wish to let it weather to a beautiful grey, no maintenance other than light pressure washing is ever needed.

All this at a comparable price to similar clear grade softwoods and composite / plastics! 5/4×6″ decking in stock and ready to deliver!

Red Mahogany Decking

Storage and Handling

Keep your decking clean, dry and out of direct sunlight before installation and finishing

Finishing

For optimum results, seal decking with a high quality penetrating sealer, such as Penofin Hardwood Formula, on all four sides prior to installation if possible
Due to the extremely dense properties of this wood, a second field coat is recommended after “seasoning”
Use care when applying any finish to wipe away any excess. Do not allow to pool or drip. For more tips on application, please visit the Penofin website HERE
Should you wish to allow your decking to weather to a beautiful silver patina, no finish is necessary
No need to wax ends

Ventilation and Air Flow

Check and follow all local building codes!
Allow adequate ventilation for proper airflow to reduce cupping and checking potential
For maximum long term stability, install your deck with a minimum ground clearance of 18″ with at least two sides of the deck open
In all cases, it is absolutely necessary to have at least 50% unrestricted air flow
Create a slope for drainage so there is no chance of standing water
If a minimum ground clearance of 18″ is not available, it is recommended to use 5/4×4″ decking

Spacing

Our mahogany decking is kiln dried. Unlike air-dried boards, shrinkage is very limited. However, excessive moisture may cause the boards to expand slightly
Install 6″ decking (5-1/2″ net) with a minimum gap of 1/4″ between boards. 4″ decking (3-1/2″ net) should have a minimum of 3/16″ between each board
In more demanding applications, such as boat docks, decks built closer to the ground and decks with less airflow, a minimum of 5/16″ for 6″ decking and a minimum of 1/4″ for 4″decking is required
This decking does not shrink or expand end to end, so neatly trim ends and butt together

Fastening

Pre-drill pilot holes and countersink screws. We recommend using stainless steel fasteners and have countersinking tools in stock available to help
Face screwing or edge screwing are the most effective methods of installation
Color matched Headcoat Stainless Steel Screws are available and provide beautiful results time and time again
Hidden clip fasteners and nails are not recommended and may void warranty

Maximum Allowable Decking Spans

1×4 and 1×6 ~ 16″ on center
5/4×4 and 5/4×6 ~ 24″ on center

Safety

Though we have had no reports of irritation of any kind with this hardwood, we still recommend wearing protective eyewear, dust masks and gloves during installation

z3 mahogany

Warranty ~ As provided by KAYU International

KAYU ® International Inc. hereinafter “Warrantor”, warrants that KAYU Batu, which is a naturally durable and stable wood, will not suffer structural damage from rot, termite damage, or fungal decay for at least 25 years, when:

Purchased from an official KAYU dealer as our normal “clear grade”
Used in a residential structure
Installed with a minimum gap between 3-1/2″ boards of at least 3/16″ inches and minimum 1/4″ between 5-1/2″ boards.
Installed with a minimum ground clearance of 18 inches; with well ventilated airflow underneath, which means at least two sides of the deck allowing at least 50% unrestricted air-flow. Water must not be allowed to become “standing” underneath the deck and must have proper slopped drainage.
Decking is sealed with a high quality penetrating oil sealer, on all four sides prior to installation. Sealing one side can create uneven moisture flow.
The installation must meet all applicable construction and safety codes.
Purchaser’s sole remedy for any claim will be only for replacement of the KAYU decking material. Warranty does not include any labor or removal of decking.
Purchaser is solely responsible for determining whether KAYU Batu meets any applicable safety, building codes, health or other regulations. Warrantor shall not be liable for installation or re-installation costs or for any indirect, punitive, consequential, or exemplary damages of any kind whatsoever arising from purchasers purchase of KAYU Batu or any KAYU decking.
KAYU decking products are stable hardwoods, with proven performance in decking applications for decades. Excessive movement is defined as twisting or warping over a half-inch. ANY visible quality issues must be dealt with PRIOR to installation. Minor surface checking is a normal occurrence and is not a warranty issue.
The above remedy is exclusive and is in lieu of all other remedies, expressed, implied, or statutory, including but not limited to any and all other obligations, or liabilities. In order to validate the warranty, you must complete and mail the attached warranty card within 100 days of installation.

To validate your warranty

Send the following information to:

KAYU International, Inc. PO BOX 368, West Linn, OR, 97068
You must include:
1. Copy of your purchase receipt
2. Dated photograph showing proper deck spacing (place a ruler/tape measure in the photo
for reference)
3. Your name
4. Your address
5. Where you purchased the decking
6. Date deck completed

Disclaimer
KAYU hardwood decking products are carefully selected and inspected to ensure its finest quality. However, all natural wood is subject to expansion and contraction as the moisture in the environment surrounding the wood changes. Shrinkage, expansion, checking and slight cupping and other movement are normal occurrences in all hardwood decking. Natural wood products are subject to variances in color, grain, density and performance.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

We Ship Nationwide!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

360.757.6343

Western Red Cedar Fence Board Grades

Jul26

Day after day, we receive inquiries for the price of fence boards. Unlike traditional lumber yards and box home improvement stores, when a call like that is received at our shop, our staff provides a price for a Western Red Cedar fence board as well as the grade. In many cases, the person who is inquiring about the price does not have a clear understanding of what the grading means and may compare pricing of products from various sources that are not equal.

Imagine calling around to different restaurants and asking for the price of “cheeseburger”. While it is called the same thing at a fast-food restaurant, as well as at a nice family restaurant, the “cheeseburger” at each location will be of different quality, and the pricing would reflect that. You would not purchase a cheeseburger based solely on price while not taking into consideration the quality, so therefore, you should not select a fence board based strictly on price either.

While there is no regulation or standards for “cheeseburgers”, there are established standards for fence boards that have been developed by the National Lumber Grades Authority, as well as the West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau. It is important to note that “fence grade” is below knotty or clear grades of Western Red Cedar and should not be compared to the quality or held at the same standard as lumber in those grades.

The West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau divides Western Red Cedar Fence Boards into three basic categories. Any grade may be rough or surfaced, Air Dried, Kiln Dried or “green”. Grade is determined by the best face.

No. 1 Fencing “Select”

Checks and Pinholes are not limited
Shakes are “Fine”
Skips are “hit and miss”, splits are “short”
Knots are sound and tight
Spike Knots can be approximately 1/2 face width or equivalent
Tolerance of 1/16″ over or under in thickness, width may vary along the piece of 1/8″, but not to exceed 20% of the pieces

Quality “No Hole” Western Red Cedar Fencing

No. 2 Fencing “Quality”

Checks and Pinholes are not limited
Shakes are “fine”
Skips are “hit and miss”, splits are “medium”
Wane can be 1/2 thickness as well as 1/3 width
There can be small spots or streaks of unsound wood
White speck not limited
There may be some knots that are not firmly fixed or are unsound but may not exceed 1/3 the width of the board
Spike Knots can be 3/4 of the face width
Maximum 1″ holes with 4 per foot allowed, unless “No Hole” is specified
Same tolerance of thickness and width as Select Fencing

This is a great example of our No. 2 Select “No Hole” Fencing, which is the standard fence board we supply unless otherwise specified. This particular fence is made from 3/4″ net thick material that the customer made a custom, decorative top cut to.

No. 3 Fencing “Rustic”

Lumber of this grade is suitable for low grade and permits all characteristics which do not interfere with the use of the piece
Thickness can be 3/16″ over or under invoiced thickness
Edge skips can not exceed 1/4″
Variation on width should not exceed 1/2″

We do not generally carry any No. 3 fencing or any fencing that allows for holes. On the off chance we have some, or order this product in for a particular order, we do not allow returns or exchanges on ANY No. 3 fencing, as the pricing reflects the quality of the material of the whole order.

No. 3 Western Red Cedar Fence Boards

GLOSSARY as provided by The West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau
Shake – A lengthwise separation of the wood that occurs between or through the annual growth rings

“Light” or “Fine” Shake is not over 1/32″ wide
“Medium” Shake is not over 1/8″ wide
“Surface” Shake occurs on only one surface of the piece
Shake should not be confused with bark seams

Split – A separation of the wood through the piece of the opposite surface or to an adjoining surface due to the tearing apart of the wood cells.

“Very Short” is equal in length to 1/2 of the width of the piece
“Short” is equal in length to the width of the piece and does not exceed 1/6 the length
“Medium” is equal in length to twice the width of the piece and does not exceed 1/6 the length
“Long” is longer than a medium

Skips – Occurs during milling when the board is too thin in an area to reach the planer blades, thus resulting in a rough spot

Wane – Bark or lack of wood from any cause, except eased edges, on the edge or corner of a piece of lumber

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

We Ship Nationwide!

360.757.643

Welcome!

Jul12

Welcome to our new blog! Be sure to check back often for new product information! Visit our main website at cedarcountrylumber.com