Bechtle Architects

As a safety feature, outdoor stair railings keep people from falling down steps. They can also improve the aesthetic of a staircase by adding design elements like metal balusters or wooden planks. Metal stair railings are popular because they are easy to install and offer a sleek, modern look. These types of stair handrails are usually made from aluminum or stainless steel, and they are more resistant to corrosion than wood railings. They are also easy to clean and require very little maintenance to keep them looking their best.

Before installing a new stair railing, consult your local building codes to see what type of materials are acceptable in your area. Once you know which material to choose, consider what style of railing will suit your home. Metal railings for stairs are available in a variety of color options and can easily be customized to match your personal preferences. They are also very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. If you choose a metal railing, be sure to choose one that is treated with a powder coat finish or another durable coating.

If you want your outdoor stair railings to make a statement, choose a bold, vibrant color. You can even find some that come with built-in lighting to create a stunning effect. For a more subtle look, you can choose a neutral color or one that blends into the surrounding environment. You can also select a metal stair railing that has an integrated cable system. This allows you to add the stair railing to existing stairs without having to reroute your cable system.

Wood exterior stair railings can add a classic, rustic look to your staircase. Wood is less expensive than other types of stair handrails, but it will require more maintenance. Wood needs to be stained or sealed regularly to prevent splinters and other issues, such as rotting and warping. Wood is not a good choice for steep slopes, however, since it can be slippery when wet.

Another type of stair railing that will stand out is glass. This option is particularly good if you have beautiful views that you want to enjoy. A stair railing that is framed by clear glass, like this staircase designed by Griffin Enright Architects, will allow you to see the view while still providing safety and security for your guests.

If you’re looking for a more cost-effective solution, you can choose a composite or aluminum railing that is manufactured from recycled materials. Some of these products are also rust-resistant and do not need staining or painting. These types of railings are easy to clean and require minimal maintenance, but they may not be as strong as a metal railing.

A pool deck is a great way to add a comfortable place for lounging around your swimming pool. Whether you have an inground or above ground pool, the right deck surface will increase enjoyment and safety while reducing cleanup and maintenance. Decks can be made of wood, tile, concrete or another material. While some materials are more expensive than others, a professional deck builder can help you find a balance between design and budget.

The best choice for a pool deck is a durable, low-maintenance material that is also easy to clean. Concrete is the best option for this purpose, offering durability, long life and affordability. It is also available in a wide range of colors, textures and finishes to meet your taste and style requirements. In addition, it is the ideal surface for a pool deck because it provides adequate traction to reduce slip-and-fall accidents.

Other materials for pool decks include natural stone, brick and pavers, as well as wood. While these materials may look attractive, they are not as durable and low-maintenance as concrete. They are also more expensive than concrete.

Most pool industry professionals agree that a concrete deck is the preferred solution for pools, as it creates the perfect combination of beauty, safety and functionality. It is the easiest to maintain, is a permanent fixture and can be built with slip-resistant features. In addition, concrete is more economical than high-end deck materials like wood or tile.

If you opt for a concrete deck, you can use precast pier legs to support your deck. These concrete blocks have slots and a socket that accept 4’ x 4’ wood posts. Install the piers near your pool, spacing them at about one foot on center. Use a level to check that the floor of the pier is level in both directions, and then mark a line on each 4’ x 4’ post at a height that lines up with the top edge of your pool.

Some pool deck materials require a slight slope to ensure proper drainage and prevent washout. For example, pavers, tiles and some types of brick should have a slope of one-quarter inch per linear foot. Concrete requires a slightly different slope, which can be achieved by installing a sand-based underlayment.

Using a special film-forming sealer can also enhance the beauty of your concrete pool deck and protect it from harmful chlorides and water splashes. These coatings provide a protective barrier to the concrete, and most of them have a sheen that highlights the color of colored or exposed aggregate concrete surfaces.

Building a deck around your pool can be a rewarding DIY project, but it requires patience and all the right tools to ensure that it is strong, safe and durable. If you do not have a few weekends to devote to the project or do not own all the necessary tools, consider hiring a professional deck builder. They will make sure that the deck is level, durable and meets all applicable building codes.

Ekodeck is a wood alternative that requires minimal maintenance. It is rot and split resistant, does not need to be oiled or painted and is splinter free. It also has built in slip resistance to keep individuals safe while using the decking. This is made possible through the use of a strong composite material which has been formulated to look and feel like wood while having durability that lasts.

The composite material that is used for ekodeck is recycled, renewably sourced and is solvent free. This reduces the need for logging, and it helps to prevent waste plastic and timber from entering landfills. This is a great environmental advantage, especially given the unpredictable weather conditions in Australia. It is also much easier to install than a traditional hardwood decking system and is around one-third the weight of a solid concrete alternative.

In addition to this, the material is resistant to rotting, termite damage and is fade-resistant. This makes it a good choice for anyone looking for a long-term and low-maintenance decking solution. In fact, the company even provides a 25-year warranty on its products.

One of the benefits of ekodeck is that it requires no oil or paint, and it will not stain or turn grey in the harsh Australian sun. It is also rot and decay resistant, and it is termite proof without any additional treatment. This is due to the durable, high-quality materials that are used for the manufacture of ekodeck.

If you are planning to build a new deck, you can get ekodeck at a number of different retailers in Australia, including Bunnings. They can provide you with a variety of options to choose from, and you can easily compare prices. Depending on your needs, you can choose from different colour combinations and textures to match the surrounding landscape.

Another advantage of ekodeck is that it can be sanded down easily in case you want to remove scratches or marks from the surface. It is also easy to repair and is very flexible. The material is made of a dense core that is surrounded by a thin outer layer, and this gives it the flexibility to bend and twist in the same way as a wooden deck.

When constructing an Ekodeck deck, it is important to lay out the boards in a manner that will allow them to flex naturally with the soil underneath. This can be accomplished by utilising picture framing, breaker boards and double borders. These will help to ensure that natural expansion and contraction is managed in the best possible way, and it will result in a successful installation each time. It is also helpful to know that you can get 3 x 1.8m and 2 x 2.7m lengths from a single 5.4m board, which will help to minimize wastage.

Metal deck is a steel framing system that works well in the construction of roofs and floor slabs. This type of decking is made up of corrugated sheets of metal with different designs – either wave-like patterns, rooves or ridges. The varying shapes of the metal produce a variety of strengths that help it to function as a strong and durable frame for these structures.

The most common use of metal deck is in the roofing industry. The deck is often supplied with the steel package in new construction or can come into play during a re-roofing project when the existing roof has been damaged beyond repair. When contractors are looking to build a roof with a structurally sound and cost-efficient design, the use of a metal deck is a smart choice.

Besides its durability, a metal deck is also more attractive than other framing materials. Its manufacturing process ensures consistent joints, avoiding the need for joist hangers and can even be shaped to create eye-catching designs for a more modern look to a home. Additionally, it is much more resilient to severe weather climates and moisture, and doesn’t require any treatment against mold or termites.

A major benefit of using metal deck is its ease of installation. The material is supplied pre-cut to size and can be laid out quickly on the construction site. This allows other work to be carried out unhindered while the concrete is being poured and results in a quicker construction process.

Another significant advantage of metal deck is its ability to span far greater distances than other types of floor slabs. This is due to the ribbed design of the decking, which produces different load and diaphragm values. This means that the steel can be used for a larger area and still provide the same strength and support.

The metal deck can be topped with a concrete slab which is pumped on to form a composite floor slab. This helps to reduce the amount of concrete required without compromising the overall slab strength and fire performance. The ribbed design of the metal decking inhibits longitudinal slip between the concrete and steel, as well as transverse movement between the slab and the supporting beams.

In many cases, the shear studs that are fixed into the ribs of the metal deck are also designed to act as a reinforcing element within the concrete. This further increases the composite action between the concrete and the steel, making the slab stronger and more durable.

A leading multideck manufacturer -Kingspan – offers metal deck with shear studs integrated into the profiles. This increases the composite action and shear capacity of the slab.

When a building project calls for the use of a metal deck, it is important to consult the engineer to know what specific profile and gauge of steel to use. Knowing the exact requirements will ensure that the correct decking is supplied and installed, helping to keep the structure safe from collapse and ensuring compliance with the appropriate codes.

A pergola is a beautiful, freestanding structure that provides shade, a focal point, and a spot to enjoy nature. It’s also a great way to add personality and a touch of whimsy to an outdoor space. Putting a pergola on deck can provide an additional living area where family and friends can gather to entertain, dine, or relax. However, adding this feature to your existing deck may seem daunting. With a little planning and a few DIY tips, you can build a pergola on your deck and start enjoying it in no time.

Like all outdoor upgrades, a pergola on deck should be carefully considered to ensure it is the right fit for your home and will serve its intended purpose. For instance, the size should be appropriate to the size of your deck and any other landscape features that surround it. You can consult a landscaping professional to help you determine what type of pergola would best suit your yard and the surrounding landscape.

To create a strong foundation for your pergola, it’s essential to properly anchor the posts. The easiest way to do this is by digging holes that are 13 the height of your post and one foot wide. Then, set the post in the hole, pour concrete, and allow it to harden. You can also use lag bolts or other fasteners to secure the posts, but this is not as strong as using concrete.

In addition to anchoring the posts, you’ll want to use high-quality materials for the beams of your pergola. For instance, if you opt for a wood pergola, choose ACQ (accelerated corrosion-prevention) treated lumber. This will help the posts resist ongoing damage from the elements and insects and last longer than untreated wood.

Aside from making your pergola stronger, ACQ treated wood will also look better than untreated lumber. This is because the wood will be naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insect infestations. The high-quality material will also prevent warping and bending over time.

If you’re planning to hang plants from your pergola, be sure to use sturdy wire mesh or other trellis material to keep the vines secure. Alternatively, you can plant the vining plants in containers, which can be easily moved inside during colder weather. Moreover, you’ll need to train the plants to grow in only one direction, otherwise they’ll get tangled on your pergola.

Pergolas can be a beautiful addition to any deck, but they’re even more effective when used as the framework for your favorite landscape accents. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, throwing a small wedding, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee by yourself, your pergola will be the center of attention.

If you’re interested in incorporating a pergola on your deck, contact the landscape experts at Green Impressions today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you turn your backyard into an irresistible destination for entertaining, dining, lounging, and gardening! We proudly serve homeowners in Northeast Ohio.

Purchasing composite decking is a big investment. But compared to the maintenance costs of a traditional wood deck, it can be worth it in terms of long-term value and total cost of ownership. However, the amount of money homeowners will spend on a composite deck will depend on the materials they choose and how they design their deck.

When shopping for composite decking, be sure to compare prices and choose a brand with an established track record and warranties. Also look for a local distributor or lumberyard that stocks the products, so you can easily make returns and future purchases. Another important factor is location, as some localities have requirements for the strength and durability of composite materials. For example, many building authorities will not issue a construction permit for a composite deck unless it meets local engineering standards.

In general, premium composite decking brands offer higher-quality materials with longer warranties and more stylish designs than lower-end brands. They can also cost more to install, because the deck boards are thicker than pressure-treated wood and require additional framing support and fasteners.

Choosing a color, texture and finish will also affect the price of your composite deck. A textured surface will hide scratches and scuffs better than smooth surfaces, but it may require more regular cleaning. Also, certain colors will fade more quickly in the sun than others.

It’s also a good idea to visit showrooms and display areas where you can touch and feel the different composite decking options. A quick walk around can help you narrow down your selections and determine which one best suits your tastes, budget and lifestyle.

The size and shape of your deck will also impact the cost, as well as any special features. For example, you may want to add railings, stairs, built-in seating or pergolas. In addition, if you’re installing lighting or electrical work, that will add to the overall project cost.

Site preparation is a significant factor, as it includes clearing and leveling the area where your deck will be installed. It can also include adding a drainage system, which will increase your labor costs. Finally, if you need to remove your existing deck, you’ll pay a home demolition company a fee for hauling away the old materials.

If you’re unsure how much your composite deck will cost, talk to several builders and compare prices. This will give you a solid idea of how much to expect for your project. You can also ask your builder to provide a quote based on the specific materials you choose. This will give you an idea of how much the materials are going to cost you and how much more your total project is likely to be. Also be sure to consider the extras, like landscaping and site grading.

A timber pergola is an ideal way to create a shaded backyard escape. You can use lattice panels, hanging plants, and vines to personalize the structure with your favorite garden elements. You can also use slats to add privacy to your structure or screen out nosy neighbors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing sanctuary or a place to host a gathering, a timber pergola can bring your vision to life.

The most popular material for a pergola is pine. This wood type is strong, durable, and affordable. It can be stained or painted to suit any style. It is naturally weather resistant and holds up well in wet climates. Cedar is another popular choice for a pergola. It is rot-resistant, insect-resistant, and has an appealing fragrance. Cedar is more expensive than other woods, but it lasts longer. Like pine, it can be stained or treated with suitable wood preservatives.

If you’re looking for a less expensive and more durable option, you can build your pergola out of pressure-treated (PT) lumber. This wood is treated with chemical preservatives and has a lower water absorption rate than untreated lumber. However, it doesn’t look as nice as natural wood. It often has a green tint or blue streaking and is not as good for appearance projects. It does, however, hold up very well to wet climates and requires less maintenance than other woods.

Other materials that can be used for a pergola include redwood and western red cedar. Both are beautiful and durable. They do require regular maintenance to keep them in top condition. If you’re building a pergola in a wet climate, it’s a good idea to use a water-resistant stain. Both types of wood are also susceptible to fungi and mildew.

You can even build a pergola out of steel. This is a relatively lightweight option and works well in many applications, but it may not be as aesthetically pleasing as wood. Steel structures are also vulnerable to rust and may need to be coated regularly with protective paint.

When it comes to choosing the best material for your pergola, you should balance cost and durability with what visually appeals to you. The right material will allow you to enjoy your backyard oasis for years to come.

A covered pergola can transform an open outdoor area into a private shaded retreat. These structures are typically built out of wood or another material that can withstand harsh weather conditions. They offer protection from rain and sunlight, while allowing air to flow through the structure. They can also be adorned with climbing plants to add both beauty and function to your backyard.

The type of cover you choose for your pergola will depend on your climate and how you plan to use it. If you live in an area with harsh winters or frequent hot summers, a heavy duty cover made of polyethylene or PVC plastic is the best option. These materials are more durable than canvas or vinyl, and will not tear or crack under extreme heat or cold.

If you’re looking for a light-weight cover that will provide some shade but won’t interfere with your view, a lattice-style fabric is an excellent choice. It lets in some sun, but blocks most UV rays. This type of fabric also looks great when draped over a pergola, and it’s available in a wide range of colors to match your backyard design scheme.

In addition to protecting your furniture from the elements, a pergola cover will also keep your wooden structure safe from moisture damage. During the construction process, be sure to use waterproof sealants and regularly inspect your pergola for any signs of moisture damage (e.g., warping, cracks, rot). If you notice any problems, address them promptly to prevent the situation from worsening.

Many people choose to build a pergola in order to make a spacious outdoor living space more intimate and defined. This is especially useful for homes with large yards that don’t have much privacy. A pergola can break up the space into multiple areas for different activities, and add a focal point that can be enjoyed by all members of your family.

Unlike conventional patio covers, which are usually attached to your home’s roof, a pergola is free-standing. This makes it easier to install them in your yard without the need for permits. However, you should still check with your local building code office to make sure your new addition is up to code.

There are a variety of reasons to add a pergola to your yard, whether it’s to create a private shaded retreat or to enhance your home’s curb appeal. Regardless of the purpose, it’s important to consider your budget and how you plan to use your pergola before starting the construction process.

If you’re ready to add a pergola to your backyard, contact Pavertime today! We’ll help you find the perfect solution for your needs and install a beautiful, long-lasting pergola that you can enjoy for years to come.

If you’re a homeowner looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance decking solution, TimberTech is the way to go. They offer a wide range of beautiful composite and capped polymer products backed by the industry’s best warranties, so you can be confident your new outdoor living space will look great for years to come.

While you might be familiar with composite decking materials like vinyl and PVC, you may not be aware of the difference between TimberTech’s three distinct lines of product: Edge, Pro, and XLM. Each has its own unique benefits to consider for your backyard retreat.

For those who are interested in an economical and environmentally friendly decking option, TimberTech’s Edge line is the right choice. This decking is made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastics that are extruded and then capped with a durable polymer to create a natural-looking, long-lasting deck. It doesn’t need staining or refinishing and is resistant to rot, mold, mildew, and other moisture damage.

The next step up in TimberTech’s line of capped polymer decking is the Pro composite deck boards. This product offers a higher level of durability than the basic Edge boards and is available in a variety of modern colors. It features a deep grain and texture for a more authentic wood-like appearance, and its surfaces are backed by a 30-Year Fade & Stain warranty. TimberTech Pro is also moisture and stain resistant, and won’t splinter or crack.

AZEK is TimberTech’s premium line of capped polymer decking and comes in a selection of colors with varying levels of wood-like texture. AZEK doesn’t contain any organic material in its cap or core, so it is less susceptible to moisture damage than the other two TimberTech decking options. AZEK is also highly scratch and fade-resistant, and can be maintained with a simple sweeping and periodic scrub down with a soft brush.

TimberTech’s XLM decking offers the most realistic wood look of all of their products. It’s designed to mimic the color and grain of traditional hardwoods such as Tigerwood and Pecan. It is available in several earth-inspired tones, and has a class A flame spread rating.

TimberTech also provides railing systems for a complete and cohesive deck. Their RadianceRail is a classic complement to any backyard retreat, and offers architectural styling, detailed accessories, and easy installation to enhance your outdoor lifestyle. They also have a system for second-story decks that manages moisture and directs it away from your home to prevent water accumulation and foundation problems.

Pergolas are a great way to create shaded garden seating areas. They’re also a wonderful framework for plants to grow over and around. While many people choose to paint their pergolas a classic white, black or wood color, it’s easy to think outside the box and design a pergola with a modern twist. This can be particularly effective in contemporary gardens with gravel and rock landscaping where the deconstructed style of the structure suits the more natural look.

This modern pergola takes a unique approach to creating shade by eliminating the traditional composition of beams, rafters and stringers in favor of a tensioned sail. This makes it a striking addition to the contemporary garden where it adds both interest and function.

If you’re looking for a pergola that will really stand out, try incorporating curved posts or even a circular shape into the design. This will give your garden a sense of flow and movement that will really draw the eye. It also works well with the organic and earthy aesthetic of a natural garden where rounded wood structures add to the charm.

A modern pergola can be made from a wide variety of materials, with wood being the most common choice. It can be stained or painted to match your home’s exterior or left bare for a rustic feel. Another option is aluminum which is very durable and easy to work with. It can be powder-coated in a wide variety of colors and is low maintenance, however it doesn’t offer the same strength as a wooden pergola. Vinyl is another low-maintenance option and can be used for a variety of styles, but doesn’t offer the longevity of other materials.

For a modern touch, try introducing a pergola with a metal roof instead of the usual wood or shingled version. This can be very striking and will look especially good if you use a dark shade like black or ebony. It’s also a good idea to use a dark stain that will protect the pergola and allow you to keep it in excellent condition for a long time.

When it comes to using a modern pergola as an outdoor dining room, you can’t go wrong with setting up an area with chairs and a table for your family and friends to enjoy a leisurely meal outdoors. To make it a truly special place to relax, consider adding some extra touches such as a fire pit or a beautiful log burning brazier and a selection of lighting to help set the mood at dusk.

If you’re looking to turn your pergola into a tropical paradise, this is a perfect example of how a pergola can be designed to resemble an island getaway. The thatched roof is complemented with open wicker furniture and the space is framed by palm trees and other tropical plants for an enchanted ambiance that’s sure to impress your guests.

A pergola can be a fantastic addition to any poolside area. It’s a great way to create a shady spot where you can kick back and relax after a swim, read a book or enjoy the company of loved ones. To make the most of your pergola, why not extend it to include a full outdoor kitchen and seating area so that you can enjoy the best of both worlds.