Decks by JS Aldo's Construction

There is no exterior home improvement more gratifying than a deck or patio. These additions serve your needs and provide enjoyment for eight to ten months out of the year. One of the great advantages of decks is that, due to the wide variety of materials available, almost any deck you can imagine can be designed and built.

Deck Materials

The most basic deck material is pressure-treated southern pine lumber. This material is commonly used for the frame, decking, and railings. It requires staining every three to five years and regular maintenance. Pressure-treated lumber is available in #1 Premium Grade and #2 Grade. The #1 grade has fewer knots, a better aesthetic appearance, and generally superior quality. Most lumber yards carry #1 grade lumber, while #2 grade lumber, which may have more imperfections, is often available at big box stores at a lower cost.

Polymer, Synthetic Decks & Rails

Over the past five to ten years, there has been a major expansion in the variety of polymer and synthetic decking materials available. Brands such as Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon, Azek, and many others offer a wide range of styles, colors, and finishes. These materials provide long-lasting durability and reduced maintenance. Due to the variety available, this blog cannot fully cover all composite and polymer decking options in detail.

Helpful Tips

• Check with your local building department to understand the requirements for building a deck. Some departments provide design guidelines and may take four months or longer to approve deck plans, so start early.
• Ensure you have a current property survey available before beginning the process.
• Hire a licensed designer or exterior design professional for deck plans. In New Jersey, contractors are not legally permitted to provide design plans. If discovered, construction may be halted or the deck may need to be removed.
• Verify that your home improvement contract is complete and compliant. Always obtain copies of the contractor's company registration and insurance certificates.

Please call and schedule an appointment to have our sales engineer visit your property and discuss your deck or patio project in detail.