Best deck maintenance specialists near Smackover, AR

In general, you need a footing at each corner of your deck, and within 8 feet of each other. So, how many you need depends on the size and shape of your deck, plus any local building codes. It also depends on factors like the load capacity of your soil and the weight of your deck. You can find a footing calculator online or contact a pro for support.

When deciding if you should use 2x6 or 2x8 deck joists, consider the size of the deck, joist spacing, and materials. Larger decks, larger-spaced joists, and weaker wood all require more support, meaning they need larger joists. For example, 2x8 redwood joists spaced 16 inches apart can only safely span up to 10 feet and 7 inches. On the other hand, 2x10 southern pine joists spaced 12 inches apart can be as big as 16 feet and 2 inches. If you aren’t sure what size joist is best for your project, speak with your deck builder.

In most cases, your deck will need some form of deck footing to hold it in place, preventing moisture from rotting your wood and decreasing your deck’s lifespan. Concrete deck blocks are the most common type of footing for floating decks. Some homeowners use ground-level deck footings. For added security, consider digging and laying your ground-level footings below ground.

Yes, adding a composite deck, such as one made from Trex, can significantly increase your home's value. It is a valuable home renovation for recouping costs, with some estimates for return on investment (ROI) ranging between 60% and 70%. More recently, Remodeling's 2024 Cost vs. Value Report suggests a deck addition has an ROI of 82.9%, with an average resale value of nearly $14,600. A new deck makes your yard more functional, enhances the landscape's aesthetic, and can entice prospective buyers. The investment may have a higher return if the deck adds usable square footage to the property.