Wood Deck Installation
Classic, affordable wood decks built with quality craftsmanship and materials that stand the test of time.
Why Wood Decks Are Still a Great Choice
Wood has been the go-to material for decks for generations, and for good reason. There's something timeless about natural wood that gives your outdoor space warmth and character. While newer materials have entered the market, wood remains popular because it's affordable, beautiful, and surprisingly versatile.
The upfront cost of a wood deck is significantly lower than composite alternatives. This makes it possible to build a larger deck or add extra features like built-in seating or planters without breaking your budget. If you're working within a tight budget but still want a quality outdoor space, wood is your best option.
Wood also offers flexibility that other materials can't match. You can stain it any color you want, change that color down the road, or let it age naturally to a silvery gray. Many homeowners actually enjoy the maintenance ritual of cleaning and staining their deck every couple of years. It's an opportunity to refresh the look of your outdoor space and take pride in keeping it beautiful. When you're ready to explore your options, we can help you choose between wood and composite materials based on your priorities.
Choosing the Right Wood for Your Glendale Deck
Not all wood is created equal. The type of wood you choose affects how your deck looks, how long it lasts, and how much maintenance it requires. We work with several wood species, each with its own advantages.
Wood Options We Recommend:
- •Pressure-Treated Pine: The most economical choice, chemically treated to resist rot and insects. Perfect for budget-conscious projects that still need durability.
- •Cedar: Naturally resistant to rot and insects with a beautiful grain pattern. It has a pleasant aroma and weathers to an attractive silver-gray if left unstained.
- •Redwood: Premium option with exceptional natural durability and a rich color. More expensive but incredibly long-lasting with minimal maintenance.
- •Tropical Hardwoods: Extremely dense and durable woods like Ipe or Tigerwood. These last 25+ years and offer stunning natural colors, though they're the most expensive option.
For most Glendale homeowners, we recommend pressure-treated pine or cedar. Both perform well in our climate, and both give you years of reliable use when properly maintained. We'll show you samples of each option and discuss the pros and cons based on your specific situation and budget.
Building Your Wood Deck the Right Way
The quality of installation matters just as much as the materials. We've seen too many poorly built decks that start falling apart within just a few years. Proper construction techniques are what separate a deck that lasts 10 years from one that's still going strong after 20 or 30 years.
We start every wood deck installation with a solid foundation. That means concrete footings that go deep enough to prevent settling and frost heaving. We properly attach the ledger board to your house with the right fasteners and flashing to prevent water damage. We space joists correctly based on your deck's size and the wood we're using. These details aren't sexy, but they're what keep your deck safe and stable.
For the decking surface, we use proper spacing between boards to allow for expansion and contraction. We pre-drill screw holes to prevent splitting. We align board ends at the center of joists for maximum strength. When we install railings and stairs, we ensure everything meets current building codes and feels solid and secure.
After construction, we apply a high-quality sealant or stain that protects your wood from Arizona's harsh sun and occasional rain. This initial finish is critical for the long-term health of your deck. It keeps moisture out of the wood and prevents the UV damage that causes wood to gray and splinter.
Keeping Your Wood Deck Beautiful
Let's be honest about maintenance. Wood decks require more care than composite, but it's not as overwhelming as some people think. With the right approach, you can keep your deck looking great without spending every weekend working on it.
Annual cleaning is your most important task. Sweep off debris regularly and give your deck a thorough cleaning once a year. Use a deck cleaner designed for wood, not a pressure washer set too high, which can damage the surface. After cleaning, apply a fresh coat of stain or sealant. This yearly ritual only takes a day or two and makes a huge difference in your deck's lifespan.
We provide detailed maintenance instructions when we complete your deck. We also offer annual cleaning and refinishing services if you'd rather have professionals handle it. Many of our clients choose this option because it saves them time and ensures the work is done right.