OUR BLOG
Recent Posts
See what we’re up to
Can you paint composite decking?
Can You Paint Composite Decking? Yes, you can paint composite decking, but it depends on the type of composite boards you have. Older, uncapped composite decking can be painted with the right products and prep work. Modern capped composite boards are a different...
Can I Install Decking in the Rain?
Can I Install Decking in the Rain? No, you should not install decking in the rain. Wet wood swells, warps, and can rot before your deck even gets a chance to shine. Rain also makes job sites slippery and puts power tools near water, which is a serious safety risk....
How Long Does a Wooden Deck Last?
How Long Different Types of Wood Decks Last Not all wood is equal when it comes to outdoor use. Some woods are tough as nails. Others soak up moisture and rot faster than you would expect. Here is a breakdown of the most common deck wood types and how long each one...
How to Find a Good Deck Builder in Central PA?
How to Find a Good Deck Builder in Central PA Finding a good deck builder in Central PA takes a little homework and it is worth it. The right builder will give you a safe, beautiful deck that lasts for years. The wrong one can cost you thousands in fixes. This guide...
How Do I Improve My Deck?
You can improve your deck by tackling upgrades in three areas: safety, appearance, and function. Even small changes — like new lighting, updated railings, or a fresh stain — can make a deck feel completely different. This article covers the best upgrades to consider,...
Does a Deck Increase Your Home’s Value?
Yes, a deck increases your home's value. According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a wood deck addition costs an average of $17,615 and has a resale value of $14,596 — meaning homeowners recoup about 82.9% of their investment. That's a strong return compared to...
What Are the Biggest Deck Building Mistakes?
The biggest deck building mistakes are skipping permits, bad ledger board attachment, shallow footings, wrong fasteners, and poor drainage. These errors don't just look bad — they can make a deck dangerous or force you to rebuild from scratch. This article walks...
What Accounts for 90% of Deck Collapses?
The ledger board. That one part — a long wooden board that connects your deck to your house — is behind 90% of all deck collapses in the United States. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), when a ledger board pulls away...
How to Repair Split Wood on a Deck
You can repair split wood on a deck yourself in most cases. The right fix depends on how deep the split is and whether rot is involved. Small cracks take 30 minutes to fix. Splintered or badly cracked boards take a bit longer but are still manageable DIY jobs. This...
How to Repair a Deck Board
You can repair a deck board yourself in most cases — especially if the damage is a crack, split, or a single rotten plank. The fix depends on how bad the damage is. Minor deck crack repair takes an hour or two. A full board swap takes a bit more work but is still a...
What Is the Best Low Maintenance Deck Material?
The best low maintenance deck material is composite or PVC decking. Both skip the yearly sanding, staining, and sealing that wood demands. This guide breaks down all your options so you can pick the right one for your budget, climate, and style. Why Your Material...
What Maintenance Does a Deck Need?
Your deck needs regular cleaning, inspection, and — if it's wood — sealing or staining every one to two years. The good news? Most of it is simple. This guide covers everything you need to know, from weekly sweeps to annual checkups, so your deck stays safe and looks...
What Is the Best Material for a Deck in Direct Sunlight?
The best material for a deck in direct sunlight is PVC decking, followed closely by high-quality capped composite decking. Both resist UV fading, handle heat better than wood, and stay structurally stable through years of sun exposure. Wood is a classic choice but...
How to Waterproof an Area Under a Deck?
You can waterproof the area under a deck by installing an under-deck drainage system, applying a waterproof membrane to the deck framing, and managing ground drainage below. The right approach depends on whether you want a dry usable space underneath or simply want to...
What Is the Best Material to Put Under a Deck?
The best material to put under a deck is crushed gravel combined with landscape fabric. The fabric blocks weeds and the gravel allows water to drain freely, keeping the area under your deck dry and clean. The right choice, though, depends on your deck height, how you...
What Is the Best Foundation for a Deck?
The best foundation for a deck is concrete piers or footings that extend below the frost line. They provide a stable, long-lasting base that resists shifting, settling, and frost heave. That said, the right foundation depends on your deck size, soil type, local frost...
The Benefits of Working with Experienced Porch Builders for Your Outdoor Space
Creating a beautiful and functional porch isn't just about adding square footage—it's about enhancing your lifestyle. Whether you envision a cozy spot for morning coffee or a vibrant space for entertaining, a professionally built porch adds both charm and value to...
The Importance of Deck Lighting Repair for Safety and Aesthetics
Outdoor deck lighting doesn’t just create ambiance—it’s also a vital safety feature. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a quiet evening outside, or simply navigating your deck after sunset, working lighting is essential. But what happens when the...
What to Do After Your Trex Deck Installation: Final Inspections and Cleaning
Congratulations on your new Trex decking installation! A well-built composite deck enhances your outdoor space, providing a durable, low-maintenance area for relaxation and entertainment. However, the job isn’t quite finished once the last board is secured. Ensuring a...
Top 5 Porch Design Ideas for Every Home Style
A well-designed porch enhances curb appeal, extends living space, and increases home value. Whether you own a modern home or a classic colonial, the right porch can transform your exterior while providing a welcoming entryway. Choosing the perfect design, however, can...
Is Composite Decking Worth the Investment? Here’s What You Should Know
When it comes to enhancing your outdoor living space, choosing the right decking material is crucial. At West Shire Decks, we've seen a growing interest in decking among our clients. But is it worth the investment? Composite decking has revolutionized the outdoor...
Top 5 Reasons To Schedule Regular Deck Lighting Repair And Maintenance
Deck lighting is an essential element of any outdoor living space, enhancing both the beauty and functionality of your deck. At West Shire Decks, we understand the critical role that well-maintained deck lighting plays in creating a safe, inviting, and valuable...
Top Tips for Maintaining and Repairing Your Deck Lighting
Deck lighting enhances the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. At West Shire Decks, we understand the importance of well-maintained deck lighting. Here are our top tips for keeping your deck lighting in pristine condition.Regular maintenance is crucial for...
How to Choose the Right Trex Decking Color for Your Home’s Style
Selecting the perfect Trex decking color for your home can be an exciting yet challenging task. At West Shire Decks, we understand the importance of making the right choice to enhance your outdoor living space. Let's explore how to choose the ideal Trex decking color...
Key Qualities to Consider When Hiring Porch Builders
When it comes to enhancing your home's outdoor living space, a well-designed and expertly constructed porch can make all the difference. However, finding the right porch builder is crucial to ensure your project's success. In this guide, we'll explore the key...
Why Choose Trex Decking? The Benefits Of Installing Composite Decking
Creating the perfect outdoor living space requires choosing the right decking material. At West Shire Decks, we've seen how Trex Decking has transformed the industry, offering a superior alternative to traditional wood decking. Let's explore why Trex Decking might be...
The Ultimate Guide to Trex Decking Installation: Everything You Need to Know
Trex decking is a high-performance composite material made from recycled wood fibers and plastic. It combines the beauty of natural wood with enhanced durability and low maintenance. Trex is designed to withstand the elements, making it ideal for outdoor spaces, as it...
The Complete Guide To Deck Installation: What Homeowners Need To Know
A well-designed and properly installed deck can transform your outdoor living space, adding value to your home and creating a perfect area for relaxation and entertainment. At West Shire Decks, we understand the importance of a quality deck installation. This...
How Local Deck Builders Can Enhance Your Outdoor Living Space
In recent years, the trend of creating inviting outdoor living spaces has gained significant momentum. Homeowners are increasingly recognizing the value of extending their living areas beyond the confines of their homes. A well-designed deck can transform your...
Expert Tips For Selecting The Best Deck Railings For Your Home
Deck railings are a crucial element that not only provide safety but also contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of your outdoor living space. Whether you're building a new deck or renovating an existing one, selecting the right railing can enhance the beauty and...