Marine environments can be extremely harsh on building materials and challenging for builders. Only the highest quality and most durable products are suitable for coastal decks and railings. Here are some tips and recommendations for your coastal deck build:
1)
Maximize the lifespan of your building products with paints, stains, and coatings. Coastal environments are destructive primarily because of salt, moisture, and UV. High quality coatings minimize the effects of these stressors. Coastal decks call for extreme protection to maximize the lifespan. Bare framing lumber should be primed and painted while stain grade exposed products should be treated with penetrating oil finishes. Some customers are choosing to construct “dry decks” which are epoxy coated to shed water completely from the deck surface.
2)
Select fasteners that will survive in coastal conditions. Stainless steel fasteners are commonly used on decks construction by the ocean. This is not only for corrosion resistance but also to protect the fasteners from chemicals in pressure treated lumber. Stainless steel bolts, framing nails, and deck screws are a worthwhile investment. Corroded fasteners lead to weak connections and possible damages or injury resulting from failures. Even heavy duty hardware like Simpson brackets and post bases are available in stainless steel and should be utilized in salt spray conditions.
3)
Use joist jackets (deck protector, joist tape) to protect framing timbers. Protective tape not only protects fasteners and slows corrosion; it also protects timbers from moisture intrusion via cracks or penetrations. This can be especially useful when protecting doubled joists and blocking where two timbers meet and trap moisture.
4)
Construct marine grade railing systems for beauty, safety, and security. Stainless steel railings have been a fixture on sailboats for decades; with good reason. Few other options can compare when it comes to surviving the environmental conditions on the coast. Coastal decks need sturdy long lasting railing posts made from T316 marine grade stainless steel. Tempered glass is another popular infill option for stainless steel railing systems by the beach. Both glass and cable railings are durable and transparent; protecting guests and pets from fall hazards on raised decks.
San Diego Cable Railings marine grade railing products are a top choice among professionals and DIY deck builders. Our in house line of railing posts and cable assemblies will survive the test of time even in the harshest environments. Give us a call or visit the quote request form to obtain pricing and information for your next decking project.
