Lesson List Browse Q&A

Glossary of Terms and Anatomy of Decks, Stairs and Railings
Glossary of Terms and Anatomy of Decks, Stairs and Railings

Decks: Decking types
Decking types

Treated Lumber:
Cedar wood:
Composite decking:
PVC Decking:

Decks: Building standards

Go to course home
Treated Lumber:

*Treated lumber will be used for the substructure with all decking types. 

Treated Lumber: Lumber infused with preservative chemicals under high pressure to protect it from decay, rot, fungi and insects, significantly extending its lifespan for outdoor uses like decks, fences, and posts where it contacts soil or moisture. These chemicals, like copper azole (ACQ) or micronized copper (MCA), are forced deep into the wood fibers, making it durable against elements that would destroy untreated wood.

Cedar tone treated lumber is pressure-treated wood, often Southern Pine, infused with a brown stain, offering the look of real cedar but with enhanced durability for outdoor projects like decks and fences, and it’s ready for immediate use without needing initial staining. 

Standard board size: 5/4 x 6, actual size is about 1″ thick by 5.5″ wide, and coming in lengths from 8ft to 24ft with (8,10,12,16, 20, 24)

Cost:

Treated lumber is the most cost effective choice for decking material (initial investment). 

Life Span: 15-40 years
 
The deck’s lifespan is heavily dependent on regular maintenance, such as cleaning, staining, and sealing every 2–5 years to prevent cracking, warping, and weathering. 
 
Maintenance:
You should stain or seal pressure-treated lumber to protect it from moisture, sunlight, warping, and cracking. While being pressure treated prevents decay, sealing/staining ensures the wood doesn’t dry out, split, or turn grey over time.
For intial staining/sealing wait for the wood to dry out (“season”) for several weeks or months before applying a finish. 
 
Sweep and remove debris from deck regularly. 
 
Clean/Pressure wash deck yearly. 
 
Stain/ Seak deck every 2-5 years.
 
Previous
Next