Author name: Robert Robbins

“Small repairs like single board replacement or surface refinishing are reasonable DIY projects. Structural work involving joists, beams, ledgers, posts, […]

“Deck framing is salvageable when joists and beams are dimensionally stable with rot under 20 percent, fasteners are intact, the

“Ledger separation from the house, widespread joist rot, fastener corrosion across multiple boards, heaving or cracked footings, loose posts, decaying

“Repair makes sense when structural members (joists, beams, ledger, posts) are sound, and damage is localized. Replacement makes sense when

“Trex and TimberTech are the two premium composite brands installed across most Austin builds. Trex offers a wider color range

“Composite (Trex, TimberTech) handles Texas heat and UV best long-term, but runs hotter underfoot in dark colors. Western Red Cedar

“Western Red Cedar grades range from clear heartwood (premium, knot-free, longest life) through construction common (most knots, shorter life). Grade

“A well-built, regularly resealed cedar deck in Austin lasts 20 to 25 years before structural concerns emerge. Without consistent resealing,