Crystal Ball Gazing Dr. Decks is back to tout some cutting edge deck technology

Gazing into the proverbial crystal ball of outdoor living, I‘ve noticed one trend that a large amount of respected top-tier deck builders seem to be gravitating to: alternate framing products.

Steel has been around for a while now, with several systems still available, while others have gone away. I think there are benefits to steel, but there’s also a learning curve. Where I live, it’s often wet when we work and rust is an enemy so I opted to wait for alternate systems to arrive and, lucky for me, such systems are here.

I’ve recently used an Australian aluminum system called Outdure, which is designed for low-level decks over rooftops. It’s a structural system that will span longer lengths, with narrower profiles which remain laser straight and flat. After all, I’m a floor guy and a flat floor is always the desired result. It’s a great option for any height deck, with its own fastener system that connects together with erector set simplicity.

Outdure has a unique clip system for grooved deck boards that integrates into the top of the joists and, in terms of longevity, aluminum is unprecedented in the industry. No rust, easy to cut, lasts a lifetime. It’s a winner (even if shrimps on the barbie are sold separately)!

Owens Corning recently released its new structural composite lumber. I’ve had samples for about a year and am convinced this is a new direction that our industry is heading. Current pressure-treated lumber offerings are being eschewed, given a relatively short life span, warping, flexing, twisting, and other inherent issues that plague these products. This new composite lumber features a fiberglass sheath inside of the cap stock to make it more structurally sound and allow longer spans. It’s workable like traditional timber and fastens together with traditional industry standard connectors. It’s definitely worth a look for those looking for a longer-lasting framing product than traditional wood.

Dr. Decks

Aka Jason Russell TACOMA, WASHINGTON

For even more from Dr. Decks, check out our Top 10 Trends in Outdoor Living (pg. 107).