Saving a Deck and Stairs Material List

Material List for Saving the Deck - Client six thousand dollars with Exterior Stair Rebuild Photos

While dismantling the stairs to replace the rotten stair stringers and posts, it became clear there was a reason that the stairs had rotted.  It wasn't long after getting to the last stair removal that the answer to my question became readily apparent as I was getting doused by the automatic garden sprinkler.

Water Problem from sprinkler- coupled with the style that the previous builder used to construct the stairs by layering the 2x12s instead of using Stair Stringer Hangers also caused water build ups that led the the wood rotting faster.

Layering the 2x12s instead of Stair Stringer Hangers caused the wood to rot.

Old School- Built to Old Codes Stringer Attachment Deck Construction

Rebuilt Deck Stairs next step Lighted Stairs

Deck Stairs Material List:

• 5-2x12x8
• 6-1x6x8
• 2 small box 2 & 3 in deck screws
• 2-4x4x8 posts
• 4-2x12 Stair Stringer Hanger (Simpson Strong Tie)
• 2-4x4 Composite Post Base

Material and Tool List for Saving the Deck and Cash

• 37 composite 6 x 6 post base caps
• 40 bags Quickcrete (Fast)
• 3 bags sand topping mix
• 1 bag Portland Cement
• 16- 24 in #4 Rebar (1/2 in x 8 in Dowel Rods)
• Small Bundle Wire Ties and Wire Twister
• 2- 1 in x 8 in x 12 ft (10 in x 10 in Concrete Forms)
• Miscellaneous scrap plywood (concrete forms)
• Wheel Barrow
• Garden Hoe
• Flat and Round Nose Shovels
• Mag and Sponge Float
• Concrete Edger
• Torch Driver
• 1 1/2 in Screws
• 1 1/2 in Roofing Nails (attach the composite base plate)
• Tape Measure
• Level
• Small Square
• 10 in Chop Saw
• Right Angle Drill Adapter with 3/4 in dia "Shorty" wood bit
• Small and Medium Hammer
• Nail Puller
• Skill Saw 7 1/2 in blade
• Saw Saw wood blades
• Extension Cords

Build Notes:

• Temporary 2x4 Deck Supports were used
• Post Rotation System ensured continuous support for deck- every third post was worked on and no additional weight loads on new piers for 24 hr minimum.
• Forms Constructed for re-use / re-cycling saved manpower and materials

Thank You for stopping by-Share and Comment below. If additional information in needed or you have a question let me know. Together we can make a difference and create a future that will benefit everyone. Build a Green StLouis Green Building Tips and Resources via: Scotty- St Louis Renewable Energy Green Blog
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Saving a Deck and Cash

I saved this homeowner six thousand dollars by removing the rotten wood and adding a little concrete to the Deck Piers.  

1) Problem

Bottom 4 inches of the 37 6x6 cedar deck posts were rotten on this huge deck.

2) Solution

• Cut the bottom 8 inches off the 6x6 cedar post
• Wire Tie Number 4 Rebar (1/2 in x 8 in long) to existing Dowel Pin

Simpson Strong-Tie Model # CPS6 Internet # 100375387 Store SKU # 825329

6 in. x 6 in. Composite Plastic Standoff

 

• Drill New Dowel Pin Hole for the Number 4 Rebar and Install this Composite Standoff to keep the Cedar Post from Rotting in the Future.

• Install New Concrete 10x10 in Concrete Pier Base Cap

• Water Proof and Protect new Concrete Pier with a layer of Concrete Portland/Sand topping mix.

The Client had 2 Bids as suggested:  

• Rebuild Deck Bid 1............................$38,000
• Replace Deck Posts Only Bid 2.........$8,000.  
• 
  

I was the third bid and beat the lowest bid by $6,000.

Thank You for stopping by-Share and Comment below. If additional information in needed or you have a question let me know. Together we can make a difference and create a future that will benefit everyone. Build a Green StLouis Green Building Tips and Resources via: Scotty- St Louis Renewable Energy Green Blog

Porch Footing and Foundation CADD Drawings by Scotts Contracting

Round and Square Porch Foundation and Footing CAD Details

by: Scotty, Scotts Contracting

Round Sketch Up Front Porch Curb Appeal

CAD Wrap Around Porch Design by Scotts Contracting

Scotts Contracting-Round Porch Design- Google Sketch-Up

Scotts Contracting-Round Porch Design- Google Sketch-Up

Wrap Around Porch Design by Scotts Contracting-Google Sketch-Up

How To Add Curb Appeal and Save on Home Energy Needs

Power Point Presentation of how Incorporating Green Building Practices can 

Add Curb Appeal and Save on Home Energy Use

Both of which will Add Value to your Home in Comfort and Appraisal Value

This Wrap Around Porch was 

Designed and Built by Scotty, Scotts Contracting

The Final Photos will be added soon!

Download or View the Power Point Slide Show of the project here

Thank you for stopping by St Louis Renewable Energy. Feel free to comment in the section below or contact Scotty for any Home Improvement Projects or Energy Reducing Needs for your Home or Business in the Greater St Louis Area and Scotty, Scotts Contracting will respond ASAP.

Porch & Deck Makeovers

Create Welcoming Entrances

When it comes to designing  a Entrance and Deck Scotty with Scotts Contracting offers the following tips:  (a)Research the Materials you would like to incorporate into your Deck, Patio, or Out Door Living Space  (b) Take notes and pictures of similar designs you would like your project to look like  (c) Inspect the area you choose to build your project  (d)Sketch or Draw out your design  (e) Determine a Material list along with pricing-with your Material list in hand-you can ask the Pro Department at your Local Home improvement Store for their Lowest Bid.  (f) Build your project as outlined by the Manufacturers Guidelines and Local Building Codes (g) Enjoy the outdoor living space you have created! If you choose to Contract out your next project- Scotts Contracting Offers the Following Services: Design-Build Projects for Residential and Commercial Buildings--Construction,Remodeling and Rehab's - to include: Carpentry, Plumbing, Electric, HVAC, Weatherization, Roofing, Flooring, Interior and Exterior Finishes, Painting/Staining, Wood Finishing, Custom Wood Working, Solar & Wind Renewable Energy Systems, Doors, Windows, Home Repairs and Upgrades- Including: Decks, Porches, Patios and Other Out-Door Living Spaces,  “Home Energy Auditing Coming Soon!!!”  Scotts Contracting is a Proud Supporter of the Green and Sustainable Building Industry and Supports Green and Eco Friendly Products !!!  Click Here to email Scotts Contracting to Schedule a Free Green Site Inspection

DIY Home Center looks to give DIY types an edge with premium products for your decking (like Tiger claw hidden deck fasteners for nail free deck surfaces or deck drainage with under-deck) to recycled outdoor furniture from Polywood. With amazing online tools, videos, and calculators make sure you get the job done right the first time.

Front Door Photos courtesy of Scotts Contracting

Front-Door Focus

Hefty columns can help call attention to doorways hidden by overhanging eaves. In this zesty ranch remodel, two decorative columns define the doorway while lending architectural interest and overall curb appeal.

"An easily identifiable front door is critical for improving your home's curb appeal!" —editor Kelly Rawlings

Example of How Adding Columns to the Front of the Home Dresses up the Building

Added Dimension

The addition of a few columns and a pediment creates a sense of arrival at this front entry. A faux balcony dresses the second story, calling attention to the vertical height while making the doorway seem more intimately scaled.

"Exterior columns (both load=bearing and decorative versions) can be found at hardware stores and home centers. They're available in metal, wood, and molded high-density polyurethane." —editor Kelly Rawlings

If you are interested in Green Building on an Investment Property Check out the Benton Gut Rehab Blog Series-Benton Gut Rehab Green Blog Series

Part 1: History

Part 2: Stone Foundation Repair

Part 3: Tuckpointing the Brick Walls pt 1

Part 4: Tuckpointing the Brick Walls pt 2

Part 5: What were they thinking?

Part 6: Paint Pro Tip #35

Part 7: Repairing Water Damage-Exterior Wall

Part 8: 1st Floor Weatherization

Part 9: See the Difference a Little White Paint Makes

Part 10: Interior Framing-Plumbing-Laundry Room

Part 11: Kitchen Framing Tip #36-Benton Rehab Project

Part 12: Water Main Repair- Benton Rehab

Part 13: Benton Rehab Project Drywall Installation and Tip: Number 1172

A well Landscaped Entrance Creates Welcoming Entrances This cottage wears an open, welcoming smile now that old screens are gone from the front porch and the stairs and floor have been brightened with paint. Because the porch is only two feet from the ground, local building codes allowed the homeowners to do without a railing on one side.

DIY Home Center looks to give DIY types an edge with premium products for your decking (like Tiger claw hidden deck fasteners for nail free deck surfaces or deck drainage with under-deck) to recycled outdoor furniture from Polywood. With amazing online tools, videos, and calculators make sure you get the job done right the first time.

Part 3 of 5 Decks Patios Out Door Living Spaces

When it comes to designing a Deck, Patio or Out Door Living Space

Scotty, Scotts Contracting offers the following tips:

• Research the Materials you would like to incorporate into your Deck, Patio, or Out Door Living Space
• Take notes and pictures of similar designs you would like your project to look like
• Inspect the area you choose to build your project.
• Sketch or Draw out your design.
• Determine a Material list-with your Material list in hand-your can ask the Pro Department at your Local Home improvement Store for their Lowest Bid.
• Build your project as outlined by the Manufacturers Guidelines and Local Building Codes
• Enjoy the outdoor living space you have created!

If you choose to Contract out your next project-

Scotts Contracting Offers the Following Services: Design-Build Projects for Residential & Commercial Buildings--Construction,Remodeling and Rehab's - to include: Carpentry, Weatherization, Roofing, Flooring, Interior and Exterior Finishes, Painting/Staining, Wood Finishing, Custom Wood Working, Solar & Wind Renewable Energy Systems, Doors, Windows, Home Repairs & Upgrades, Basic: Plumbing, Electric, HVAC,-

"Including: Decks, Porches, Patios and Other Out-Door Living Spaces"

"We will be offering: Home Energy Audits Soon!!!"

Scotts Contracting is a Proud Supporter of the Green Building Industry & Green and Eco Friendly Products !!!

Click Here to email scotts contracting and set up a Free Green Site Evaluation and Bid for your next project

DIY Home Center looks to give DIY types an edge with premium products for your decking (like Tiger claw hidden deck fasteners for nail free deck surfaces or deck drainage with under-deck) to recycled outdoor furniture from Polywood. With amazing online tools, videos, & calculators make sure you get the job done right the first time.

Prep a Deck: Strip Old Stain Removing old stain with a chemical stripper is relatively uncommon with decks, but it can do an excellent job, leaving wood noticeably cleaner than using a power washer alone. A stripper is particularly valuable for areas where old stain still adheres tight, such as on railings and other areas exposed to less wear than the main deck surface.

Prep a Deck: Pressure Wash the Surface Pressure washing, the standard in deck cleaning, efficiently removes dirt, old stain, and debris from wood. Most pressure washers can be used with trisodium phosphate (TSP) or other deck cleaners for an even better result. When you use a pressure washer, don't let the spray linger in one spot too long, or it may gouge the wood. Discoloration or stubborn stains are better removed with a stripper than with overly aggressive power washing.

Tip: Consider Nearby Plants Wet nearby foliage before using deck cleaner or stripper to reduce chemical damage. After you finish cleaning the deck, spray plants again to wash off any chemical residue.

Stain a Deck Once your deck is clean and dry, it's time to apply finish. Finishes come in clear, tinted, semitransparent, and solid colors. The look you choose is mainly a matter of personal preference, but there is a practical consideration: Clear or tinted products usually last just a year or two, depending on the climate. Semitransparent and solid stains may last two to four years.

Tip: Before You Stain Before applying the finish, allow ample time for the deck to dry. Read the product label for guidance. Also, reset popped nailheads and replace warped or split boards.

Stain a Deck: Use a Roller An ordinary paint roller can make easy work of staining a deck, especially if you attach an extension handle so you don't have to kneel. (Check product recommendations—some finishes are not suitable for roller application.) To reduce overlap marks, roll no more than a few deck boards at a time, completing their length before starting the next. Paintbrushes can be used on decks too, but they're not efficient for large surfaces. They are, however, useful for railings and recesses that rollers can't reach.

Stain a Deck: Grab a Sprayer Sprayers are excellent for applying stain because they allow you to cover large areas quickly and uniformly. Another advantage is the ease with which sprayers treat railings and other awkward hard-to-paint surfaces. Power sprayers are available, but even simple pump-type sprayers will work. (Not all deck finishes are appropriate for sprayer application; check the product label.)

Stain a Deck: Use a Pad Browsing stain aisles at home improvement centers can reveal some nifty innovations. For instance, gel stains applied with pads are easy to use without drips or runs, and various pad applicators are designed to reach difficult spots. The application process is longer, however, so limit pad applications to smaller or difficult-to-reach areas.

DIY Home Center looks to give DIY types an edge with premium products for your decking (like Tiger claw hidden deck fasteners for nail free deck surfaces or deck drainage with under-deck) to recycled outdoor furniture from Polywood. With amazing online tools, videos, & calculators make sure you get the job done right the first time.

Part 1 of 5 -Decks Patio Outdoor Living Structures

DIY-Deck Repair, Water Proofing, Installation

When it comes to designing a Deck Scotty with Scotts Contracting offers the following tips: (a)Research the Materials you would like to incorporate into your Deck, Patio, or Out Door Living Space. (b) Take notes and pictures of similar designs you would like your project to look like. (c) Inspect the area you choose to build your project. (d)Sketch or Draw out your design. (e) Determine a Material list along with pricing. (f) Build your project as outlined by the Manufacturers Guidelines. (f) Enjoy the outdoor living space you have created! Scotts Contracting Offers the Following Services Design-Build Projects for Residential & Commercial Buildings-Construction,Remodeling and Rehab's - to include: Carpentry, Basic: Plumbing, Electric, HVAC, Weatherization, Roofing, Flooring, Interior and Exterior Finishes, Painting/Staining, Wood Finishing, Custom Wood Working, Solar & Wind Renewable Energy Systems, Doors, Windows, Home Repairs & Upgrades- Including: Decks, Porches, Patios and Other Out-Door Living Spaces, "Home Energy Auditing Coming Soon!!!"

Stain a Deck: Grab a Sprayer Sprayers are excellent for applying stain because they allow you to cover large areas quickly and uniformly. Another advantage is the ease with which sprayers treat railings and other awkward hard-to-paint surfaces. Power sprayers are available, but even simple pump-type sprayers will work. (Not all deck finishes are appropriate for sprayer application; check the product label.)

Stain a Deck: Use a Pad Browsing stain aisles at home improvement centers can reveal some nifty innovations. For instance, gel stains applied with pads are easy to use without drips or runs, and various pad applicators are designed to reach difficult spots. The application process is longer, however, so limit pad applications to smaller or difficult-to-reach areas.

DIY Home Center looks to give DIY types an edge with premium products for your decking (like Tiger claw hidden deck fasteners for nail free deck surfaces or deck drainage with under-deck) to recycled outdoor furniture from Polywood. With amazing online tools, videos, & calculators make sure you get the job done right the first time.