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Cutting the boards directly is one of the fastest ways to remove deck boards with hidden fasteners. Mark two parallel lines that are one-third of the total measurement on both ends and cut out the centerpiece. Then, remove the end of the board that doesn’t have a fastener. Finally, pry open the fastened side and pull it up to pop out the screw or access the fastener. This also allows you to salvage portions of boards for other projects.

Because adding a deck will yield a higher property value, you may have higher insurance costs. It’s important to follow the codes and regulations set by your local and state governments, so your insurance rates can be properly calculated. You may need an insurance revaluation after your deck is completed. The best course of action is to speak with an insurance professional to understand how adding a deck will impact your home’s insurance costs before you begin.

Yes, Ipe is more expensive than Trex decking—both in terms of materials and installation (plus, Ipe trees are endangered). On average, Ipe decking costs $10 to $25 per square foot, while Trex decking costs $5 to $12 per square foot. Because Ipe is harder to work with, the price of installation is higher, too. For Ipe decking, you’ll pay between $20 and $45 per square foot for labor. However, with Trex decking, the labor costs range from $8 to $22 per square foot.

Any wood deck provides some ventilation to the area below, as is the nature of that type of deck design. However, areas that experience excessive humidity and associated moisture benefit greatly from a dedicated ventilation system in the form of strip vents. This addition helps the various wood boards contract and expand evenly throughout the years and reduces the chances of twisting, warping, and buckling.