Bechtle Architects

Stair railings are a safety component to your home or deck that add serious design flair. They are often the first thing people notice when they come to visit and help them navigate your property without fear of falling or getting lost. They are the perfect opportunity to showcase your style in another way. This article will look at some insights and tips for choosing a stylish outdoor stair railing that is both safe and a major design statement.

What is the best material for stair railing?

There is a wide variety of materials available for outdoor stair railings. Some are easy to maintain and others require extensive care. For example, wood requires regular sanding and repainting, while aluminum does not. Many stair railing manufacturers offer a selection of colors and finishes to suit your style, and some also provide unique infills like stainless steel cable and mesh that can add a more industrial flair.

Generally, metal and wood are the two most popular choices for outdoor stair railings. Both offer a natural look that blends well with the overall aesthetic of your staircase, and both are durable and long-lasting. Wood can be quite expensive, but it offers the added benefit of being able to be stained and repainted to match your deck or home. Metal stair railings are typically made of aluminum, which is both lightweight and rust-resistant. They can be powder coated in a variety of colors and styles, and they are also relatively easy to install.

The most important factor in deciding on an outdoor stair railing is its ability to meet local building codes. For instance, in some areas you must have a handrail that can support 400 lbs. You don’t want a drunk adult male to accidentally kick the stair railing and fall off an upper floor, killing himself. Some metal stair railings have perforations that allow snow or rainwater to drain through, which reduces the amount of buildup.

Other factors that you should consider include durability, cost, and ease of maintenance. For example, wooden railings require frequent sanding and repainting. Some manufacturers produce low-maintenance stair railings that are pre-stained and ready to use right out of the box. These are a good choice for homeowners who don’t want to deal with the upkeep of regular wood stair railings.

If you’re looking for a stylish outdoor stair railing, check out the options at Fortress Building Products. Their product line includes a wide range of different stair railings, and they also make fencing, decking, and ornamental hardware that can complement your stair railing. Their products are aesthetically pleasing, and they are designed to be used by anyone, from prom queens to superheroes. Their stair railings are available in a variety of colors and finishes, and they feature unique features such as a rust resistant e-coating and hinged stair rail systems. They are also easy to install, and you can concrete them into the ground for a more stable finish.

When designing a pool deck, it is important to consider not only aesthetic preferences, but also the functionality of the space. Whether you have children that swim regularly or you host many backyard parties, you need a surface that can withstand the wear and tear of the daily use and frequent exposure to chlorine and sunlight. In addition, it must be slip-resistant and easy to clean so that guests can enjoy the deck without fear of slipping or getting wet.

There are many different materials available that can be used for pool decking, each with its own unique advantages. Some of the most popular options include pavers, tiles, and natural stone. These are all durable and can withstand the unique stresses that a pool deck is subject to. However, they vary in appearance and cost, so it is important to choose a material that suits your design preferences and fits your budget.

Natural Stone

Natural stone provides a classic and sophisticated look to any pool deck. It is available in a variety of colors, shapes and textures, allowing you to create an elegant poolside area that will stand out from the crowd. Limestone, sandstone and other stones are ideal for pool decks because they offer durability and are cool to the touch. Some stones are unglazed, which makes them more slip-resistant than glazed tile and can be installed in a range of patterns. For example, the Borealis collection offers an oak-look with a seductive tactile component that is complemented by a slip-resistance rating of R11C. Another option is La Matiere, a Mediterranean-inspired take on a cement-look product that has an R13C slip-resistance rating.

Pavers are individual pieces that are often laid in a herringbone pattern to form a grid-like structure. They are ideal for modern designs because they offer a sleek and contemporary aesthetic and can be made in a wide range of colors. Pavers are also easy to repair and maintain.

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are durable and available in a variety of colors, sizes and finishes. They are easier to maintain than natural stone because they can be easily cleaned with a pressure washer. However, they are more slippery than textured stone and unglazed tile, so it is important to choose a slip-resistant glaze or a porcelain tile with a textured surface.

Surface Coatings

For an easy way to update your existing pool deck, surface coatings can provide a water-resistant, UV-blocking finish that is easy to clean and non-slippery. They can be brushed or sprayed on the existing surface, which means that your pool deck can be resurfaced in much less time than installing a new deck and at a fraction of the price. These coatings are available in a wide range of colors and textures, from a basic lace pattern to high-end chiseled granite looks. Some of these coatings also have anti-microbial properties to protect the surface from algae and bacteria.

The ecodeck range of decking is designed to provide a durable and long-lasting solution, while at the same time offering environmental advantages. The ecodeck decking range is constructed from a mix of timber fibres and recycled plastics. This combination of reclaimed materials significantly reduces the demand for raw wood and alleviates deforestation. The reclaimed timber fibres are derived from hardwood offcuts and sawdust, which diverts these waste products away from landfill and gives them a new purpose. The recycled plastics are sourced from post-industrial and consumer waste. The reclaimed timber and recycled plastics are blended with bonding agents and additives to improve the strength, durability and longevity of the product.

The result is a decking material that has been designed to perform and to look great on board superyachts. The decking is completely impermeable, meaning it is unable to support the growth of algae or other water-borne organisms and provides an excellent grip to prevent the build up of moisture. It is easy to clean and does not splinter or crack and has been proven to be extremely resistant to the effects of UV.

The reclaimed materials used in ecodeck are fully recyclable and are supplied with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer’s defects. It is compatible with a range of surface finishes including gravel, stone, soil, grass and can be used on slope inclines of up to 1 in 4. The permeable 40mm grid is compliant with Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) regulations.

Ekodeck boards are available in a range of beautiful colours to suit any environment or style. The Designer Series is BAL-29 rated and contains fire retardant additives which makes them suitable for use in areas where the risk of ignition or combustion is high. Ekodeck Classic is not BAL-29 rated but is still a good choice for Darwin, as it is made for Australia and is highly stain resistant.

A pergola on deck adds a sense of grandeur to your outdoor space, framing it in an inviting and eye-catching way. Whether you’re crafting a rustic retreat or a modern lounge, adding this charming feature is an excellent way to bring form and function together in your dream outdoor living area. But if you want to ensure your pergola is a seamless extension of your home, proper installation and careful planning are required. Here’s a look at some of the key steps to take.

Picking the right size pergola for your deck starts with dimensions. Standard sizes work well for homeowners who want the convenience of a plug-and-play option, but custom-sized pergolas are also available, allowing you to customize your addition to the needs and aesthetic of your outdoor living space.

Once you’ve chosen your preferred model, it’s time to prepare the deck for its new addition. This step is essential for ensuring the integrity of your existing deck, as you’ll need to check every board and joist to guarantee they can handle the added weight. You’ll also need to clear the space by removing any hazards or items that could be obstructive during construction.

Anchoring your pergola to the deck is an important part of the process. Since the structure is elevated, it’s more prone to movement from wind and other elements, so you need to make sure all connections are secure. Using bolts and brackets that are designed specifically for this task will help you achieve the strongest results.

It’s also a good idea to use ACQ-treated wood for the posts. This will resist ongoing damage from the weather, insects and other factors that can weaken the structure over time.

Once the foundation is set, it’s time to start assembling the pergola’s skeleton. Hoisting up the posts and positioning each beam is like drawing the rooftop of your backyard oasis, bringing your vision to life as the pergola’s framework comes together. Once all the beams are in place, you’re ready to add the finishing touches that will make your pergola a true backyard oasis.

One of the easiest ways to enhance your pergola is by adding greenery. Climbing plants like honeysuckle, passion flower, potato vine or grapevine can add both beauty and functionality to your outdoor living space by providing shade and a calming backdrop for lounging and entertaining. A few carefully placed hanging baskets of flowers or potted plants will also do the trick. By adding lighting fixtures, you can elevate your deck’s atmosphere and create a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This will make it even more enjoyable to spend time outdoors. If you’re interested in adding a pergola to your deck, contact Composite Carpentry for expert guidance on design options and materials that will fit your home and lifestyle. We offer a full range of services for all your residential and commercial needs.

Wood decks have long been a popular choice for homeowners seeking a stylish and comfortable outdoor space. But recently, more and more people have been choosing low-maintenance composite decks over traditional wood decks. While composite decking can cost more upfront than wood, it has a lower total cost of ownership than a standard wood deck over its lifetime. It’s important to know how much a composite deck costs before you start building one, however, because there are many factors that can impact the price.

For example, the size of a composite deck can significantly impact its overall cost. Small pool decks tend to be less expensive than larger multi-level designs, which may require a specialized contractor and additional materials to build. The type of framing and support structure also impacts composite deck prices. Pressure-treated wood is typically a good option, but some homeowners choose metal framing for greater durability. These materials can increase the cost of the deck by up to $5 per square foot.

Additionally, the color of the composite deck can affect its price. Lighter colors like greys and browns are usually less expensive than dark shades, which can become extremely hot underfoot on a sunny day. However, it’s critical to choose a colour that you are absolutely sure about, as composite products cannot easily be modified once installed.

Before committing to any particular composite decking brand, it’s essential to compare the options available in your area. Homeowners can contact a local deck installation company or lumberyard to learn more about the brands that are available and discuss which one might be best for their project. It’s also important to limit your search to manufacturers that have a current engineering report, since some building authorities won’t issue a construction permit without these reports.

Composite decking manufacturers have a variety of options available to match any style or budget. For example, low-cost composite decking from Trex comes in a wide range of colours and finishes. Its wood-like grain pattern mimics the look of real wood, and it’s available in multiple sizes to accommodate different railing systems. Its capped polymer planks are impregnated with a protective cap that makes it resistant to mold, rot and insects, while its cellular core prevents sagging or warping. This allows homeowners to enjoy their deck for decades to come while keeping the surface looking new and ensuring that it is safe and comfortable underfoot. This is a great alternative to natural wood, which can splinter and develop cracks over time.

Whether they are used as a shade structure or a focal point in your garden design, a timber pergola brings beauty and structure to any outdoor space. Like any outdoor structure, however, a pergola is vulnerable to the elements, including rain and sun, which can cause wear over time and lead to rot and insect infestation. Proactive maintenance can help stave off these issues, preserving your timber pergola for years to come.

Aside from routine cleaning, one of the best things you can do to maintain your timber pergola is regular inspections. By looking for soft spots, cracks or splinters, you can identify rot or insect damage early on and address the issue before it becomes worse. Additionally, checking for loose bolts or brackets can ensure that your structure remains securely fastened and can withstand the force of the wind.

With regular maintenance and inspections, you can extend the lifespan of your timber pergola and enjoy it as a focal point in your garden for years to come. To get the most out of your pergola, it’s also important to choose the right wood for your project. Different species of timber have unique properties that suit a variety of climate conditions and aesthetic preferences. Cedar and redwood are a popular choice for their natural resistance to insects and rot, while hard woods like teak offer unparalleled durability at a premium price. For a budget-friendly alternative, treated softwoods like pine offer resilience at a fraction of the cost of hardwoods.

When it comes to building a new timber pergola, the first step is to set the posts in concrete footings for stability. Once the posts are in place, you can begin attaching the cross beams and rafters. If you plan on adding lattice panels, they can be attached at this stage as well.

Once your structure is complete, you can add a deck or other flooring and furniture to make the most of your pergola. You can also enhance the look and functionality of your pergola by integrating plants or vines. Fragrant climbers like jasmine or honeysuckle can weave their way through the rafters, offering both beautiful color and delightful scents.

For a more rustic finish, you can also stain your timber pergola. Hemlock, which is often used for pergolas, is naturally weathered gray and can be stained to preserve its original color or to match a specific landscape design scheme. For added longevity, you can treat your hemlock with a preservative to increase its resistance to rot and insects.

A covered pergola is more than a shade provider; it’s an attention-grabbing centerpiece that elevates your outdoor living experience. Designed with care, a pergola can be a sanctuary for tranquility, meditation, or a place to entertain friends and family. With the right mix of accessories, a pergola can even help your garden or backyard feel like an extension of your home.

A pergola’s appeal stems from its simple yet elegant design. Its interwoven wood latticework provides a sturdy foundation for climbing plants and vines, creating an inviting, shaded retreat. With careful upkeep, this timeless structure can add to your property’s value and boost the beauty of your garden for years to come.

While many homeowners opt for a trellis instead of a pergola, this structure can also provide an appealing alternative. Unlike a trellis, a pergola features an open structure with sides formed from latticework, rather than solid walls, and often has a roof. The difference between an arbor and a pergola is subtle, but important: Typically, an arbor is a standalone feature that isn’t attached to any part of the home, while a pergola is used to create shade and decor along walkways and paths or as an entryway into a garden.

Covered pergolas are just as attractive as their unadorned counterparts, but they offer additional protection from the elements. A roof can be constructed from a wide variety of materials, including corrugated polycarbonate panels that are lightweight and resistant to UV radiation. These panels are also available in a range of colors, which can be used to match the color of your house or deck. Another option is to install fabric shades, which can be fixed triangular shade sails or woven fabric rectangles that are stretched between the rafters. These can be moved back and forth depending on whether you want to soak up some rays or protect yourself (and your dining table) from the afternoon sun.

Adding a roof to your pergola can increase the structural integrity of the structure, which is particularly important if you plan to add seating or dining tables underneath. In addition, a roof can protect you and your guests from rain and debris. Alternatively, you can use a retractable shade canopy, which is custom-designed to fit the dimensions of your pergola.

If you’re not sure which type of roof to select for your pergola, consider a fiberglass model. Not only is this material lighter than wood, but it’s also pound for pound stronger than steel. Additionally, fiberglass can withstand heavy snowfall without requiring reinforcement.

A well-designed and maintained covered pergola is a welcome addition to any yard or garden. Combined with plush seating, ambient lighting, and soothing plants, this structure can transform into a secluded oasis where you can relax and entertain your friends and family. By choosing the perfect materials and integrating attractive decorations, you can craft a pergola that perfectly matches your lifestyle. With proper upkeep, this unique outdoor structure will become a cherished focal point that adds value to your home.

A deck is one of the most significant home improvement investments a homeowner will make. Choosing the right materials and construction process is vital to creating a space that enhances the home’s beauty and offers optimal functionality. TimberTech and Trex both offer high-quality, long-lasting options for homeowners who want to build their dream decks. Comparing both brands can help a homeowner determine which product best aligns with their design aesthetics, maintenance expectations, budget, and environmental concerns.

A TimberTech composite deck is a high-performance, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood decking that is made with recycled wood byproducts and plastics. Binding agents hold these materials together to create a durable, long-lasting material. Additives are also used to create specific properties, such as UV resistance and mold resistance. The composite material is then capped with a proprietary polymer coating that locks in moisture, mold, mildew, and other environmental damage. This unique construction allows the boards to resist fading, staining, splintering, and cracking, while keeping their stunning appearance year after year.

TimberTech offers a number of different composite and capped polymer decking products to meet the needs of a wide variety of homeowners. The composite TimberTech product lines include:

Capped polymer decking is an advanced, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective option that provides the look of natural wood with improved performance. TimberTech’s capped polymer decking has a protective outer shell that resists fading, staining, splintering, mildew, and mold, keeping the board looking like new for years to come.

The capped polymer product line features a broad color selection, allowing homeowners to create the perfect deck color palette for their project. The capped polymer decking is available in a number of different textures, including straight grain, which resembles a traditional wood plank with no knots; hand-scraped finish, for an intricately textured look that adds character to the space; and crosscut grain, for a more refined hardwood appearance.

Both TimberTech’s composite and capped polymer decking materials are backed by industry-leading warranties. The company’s composite decking is backed by a 25-year limited product and fade & stain warranties, while the Advanced PVC decking is backed by a 50-year warranty that includes fading and staining.

A TimberTech deck can be a great addition to any home and is an excellent investment that can increase the value of a property. A deck that is well-maintained and properly cared for can last up to 20 years. In comparison, a traditional wood deck will require regular maintenance and may need to be replaced in as few as three years.

The best way to choose the right TimberTech deck for a homeowner is to discuss their lifestyle, maintenance expectations, and design preferences with them. Sunburst Construction is happy to assist a homeowner in the process of evaluating and selecting the perfect decking for their home. Contact us today to get started!

A pergola is more than just a garden structure; it’s an opportunity to create a stunning focal point that elevates outdoor living and dining areas. With a wide range of design options, freestanding and attached pergolas offer the flexibility to transform patios, decks, poolside lounges, or any other outdoor space into a captivating retreat. In this article, I will explore various pergola styles, the best lumber options for durability, and unique design features to customize your pergola for long-lasting beauty.

Modern pergolas offer a sleek, clean-lined aesthetic that complements contemporary home designs and accentuates the architecture of the landscape. This style of pergola often utilizes natural materials, such as wood or stone, and blends into the surroundings through a neutral color palette that honors the colors of the plants and the sky. Whether you prefer an asymmetrical, geometrical design or a more classic lattice pattern with classic rafters and beams, the possibilities are endless for creating a pergola that is uniquely your own.

A freestanding pergola can establish a shaded respite by the pool, define an outdoor living room conversation area, or serve as a garden canopy over a seating area, kitchen, or planting beds. This modern pergola from Emily Henderson Design features a neutral color palette, woven furniture, and accent lights strung along the rafters to create a calming and elegant backyard oasis. In this Northern California backyard from Cathie Hong Interiors, a metal and wood pergola blends with the fence and vertical planters to create a cohesive outdoor space. The dark-colored pergola echoes the architecture of the house, while the mix of natural and modern materials adds to the refined, yet relaxed feel of the patio.

Adding a roof to your pergola offers the opportunity to use it all year round, regardless of the weather. The pitched roof design also helps to control rain and snow runoff. Modern pergolas with roofs can include ceiling fans and other custom features to enhance the functionality and beauty of the structure.

If you want your pergola to become a year-round dining or entertainment area, consider equipping it with an outdoor kitchen and furnishings. Installing a grill, refrigerator, and dining tables can transform your pergola into an enchanting alfresco kitchen that blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor living. For cooler temperatures, add a fire pit or freestanding or mounted heaters to provide warmth and cozy ambiance for family gatherings.

A pergola attached to your house offers a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces and increases the value of your property. This design can be equipped with a full outdoor kitchen and dining areas to host larger family meals and gatherings. You can also add a ceiling fan, decorative end cuts, and other customizations to make your pergola feel like a true extension of your home. Depending on the size of your yard, you can even install an outdoor bar or hot tub beneath the structure to create a private retreat that feels like a luxurious getaway.

A wooden pergola with roof is a beautiful way to bring architectural sophistication to your garden. It defines a space for outdoor relaxation and socialization, and it can be a gorgeous backdrop to your backyard landscape design. When it comes to choosing the best structure, though, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. For starters, you’ll want to consider your budget and the features that you want to add to the space. Depending on your preferences, you might also need to choose the size of the pergola and the roofing materials.

Pergolas with a flat roof are a popular choice because they provide an even amount of shade throughout the day. This helps to create a comfortable environment for relaxing or entertaining, regardless of the time of day. This roofing option is also a good choice for homeowners who want to limit the maintenance and mechanical complexity of their structure.

Another popular choice for a pergola roof is a slat or louvered design. This style allows for a certain amount of sunlight to filter through, providing a pleasant visual experience while also offering protection from rain and snow. Another benefit of this type of roof is that it provides a more traditional look than an entirely solid structure.

Other roofing options include polycarbonate sheets and thatch. These materials offer a variety of colors and transparency levels, giving homeowners the flexibility to control how much sun or light enters the space. Additionally, polycarbonate is a durable material that can stand up to weather conditions. Thatch, on the other hand, offers a rustic charm that complements natural garden settings beautifully.

Once you’ve decided on the design for your pergola, it’s important to plan ahead and prepare the site for construction. Start by clearing the area of any debris, plants, or other obstacles. Then, use stakes and string to mark the layout of your pergola on the ground. Once you have a clear idea of the dimensions that you’d like for your structure, dig holes for the posts using a shovel or post hole digger. Make sure that each hole is the same depth so that your structure will be evenly sized.

After the posts are in place, brace them using scrap wood or lumber planks. Lastly, level and square each of the posts using a spirit level to ensure that they’re straight and level. Once the structure is complete, you can add extras like built-in seating or lighting to make it even more functional and welcoming. You’ll also need to maintain your wooden pergola with regular cleaning, sealing, and inspections to guard against rot, pests, and other damage. With proper care, you’ll enjoy your new addition for years to come.