Frequently Asked Deck Buildings Questions

Deck Software

Can you tell me where to find and purchase deck software that will let us design a deck that is multilevel and that can be built in stages. Preferably something I can purchase on the internet. Thank you so much for any help. We can't seem to find what we need.

Try this: http//www.sierra.com/sierrahome/titles/3dd/

I haven't used the software, but it may work.

Deck design program

I am planning on constructing a deck for the back of my house soon, and I am trying to find a computer program that will aid me in designing the deck. I realize that some home improvement store use such software, but I have been unable to actually utilize the service (long lines, no help around, etc.)

Can someone direct me to a website that would provide (hopefully free) me with such software?

I paid $15 for deck design software at Costco. The software is by Sierra.

Trex Decking

Could someone comment on their experience with Trex decking? It's a bit pricey so I want to make sure that it performs as advertised?

I built two decks 12x36 and 12x56, I do like it, you really need to be careful, it is a lengthy story, so contact me for more info. I am not a factory rep.

I use to work at a company that sold Trex. While I never worked with it myself, I got a lot of feedback from those who did.

Good Points:

• Solid, stable, don't have to worry about color fade

Bad Points:

• Can be difficult to work with-because of density it can be tough to drill and cut.
• Because of weight it also can sag..need to have close joist supports.
• Mainly I heard that it's a trade off--price vs. durability.

Trex Decking: Fading

Can anyone tell me just how badly the "natural" colored trex will fade off due to exposure to weather. I am in the middle of a contract for a deck, was going to use the dark brown trex, however, we cannot get the dark brown color for 6-8 weeks. I am now considering using the "natural" colored trex, but I am concerned about how much it will fade to the "grey" color. If anyone could shed some light on this fading, I would appreciate it.

Hi, I just finished a natural deck(s) it will fade to a grey, it will be a lot lighter than the brown. Much lighter. Suggest you stay with one color. I am real happy with mine.

More Info about Trex Decking

Any thoughts or tips on TREX decking?

I'd look at a few weathered projects first. Some people have complained to me about uneven weathering. If you plan to stain this won't be a problem.

choicedeck (made by weyerhauser) contains only cedar and weathers quite evenly.

I've used it to build two decks, and I am a big fan. It is easy to work, and weathers nicely. It's a good idea to buy all your stock from one bundle, so that the material is consistently aged. After a year, it makes no difference. Best of all, laying the deck goes quickly as you don't need to check for best side, no checks, waning, bows or cupping. Good stuff.

Dek-Blocks: How Are They?

I am interested in using these deck blocks myself but can not find them anywhere. is there a web site specifically for this product? I am going to build a free standing deck at ground level (12") in front of my house. 12x10 I came across a product called Dek-Block and was curios how well these footings work. Please let me know your experiences.