Wood Deck Installation
Classic wood decks that bring natural beauty and warmth to your backyard with timeless appeal.
The Timeless Appeal of Wood Decking
Nothing matches the natural beauty of real wood. Wood decks have a warm, organic look that composite materials try to copy but never quite achieve. If you love the look and feel of genuine wood under your feet, then a wood deck is the right choice for your Eau Claire home.
At ECD Eau Claire Deck Builder, we have built hundreds of wood decks using pressure-treated lumber, cedar, and other quality wood species. We know how to select the right materials, build sturdy structures, and finish wood decks so they look beautiful and last for years.
Wood decks do require regular maintenance to keep them in top shape. You will need to clean and re-stain or re-seal your deck every few years. But many homeowners find the maintenance worthwhile because they love the authentic wood appearance and the satisfaction of caring for something natural.
Choosing the Right Wood for Your Deck
Different wood species offer different benefits. We help you choose the right one based on your budget, preferred look, and how much maintenance you want to do.
- •Pressure-treated pine: The most affordable option. It lasts 15 to 20 years when properly maintained and accepts stain well.
- •Cedar: Naturally resistant to rot and insects. It has a beautiful reddish tone and pleasant aroma. Cedar costs more but many people prefer its premium look.
- •Redwood: Similar benefits to cedar with gorgeous natural color. It is one of the more expensive wood options but extremely durable.
- •Tropical hardwoods: Species like Ipe and Tigerwood are incredibly dense and long-lasting. They cost significantly more but can last 25 to 40 years.
For most Eau Claire homeowners, pressure-treated lumber or cedar offers the best combination of quality, appearance, and value. We bring samples to your home so you can see and feel the differences before deciding. If you want to explore low-maintenance alternatives, we also offer composite deck installation.
How We Build Your Wood Deck
Building a wood deck right requires knowledge and experience. Poor construction leads to problems like sagging, uneven boards, and premature rot. We follow best practices that ensure your deck looks great and lasts.
Foundation and Framing
We start with a solid foundation. This means properly sized and spaced footings that go below the frost line so they will not shift when the ground freezes. We use treated lumber for all the framing because it touches the ground and faces constant moisture.
The frame includes the ledger board that attaches to your house, support beams, floor joists, and blocking. We space joists correctly for the decking board width you choose. Proper joist spacing prevents bouncy, weak decks that flex when you walk on them.
Decking Installation
We install deck boards with proper spacing between them for water drainage and air circulation. This spacing prevents moisture from getting trapped, which causes rot. We use quality deck screws that resist rust and hold tight for decades.
Each board gets inspected before installation. We look for defects like large knots, cracks, or warping. Only the best boards make it onto your deck. We also arrange boards so any slight cupping directs water away from the house.
Railings and Stairs
Railings and stairs must meet specific building codes for safety. We build railings at the correct height with properly spaced balusters so they are safe for children. Stairs get the right rise and run dimensions so they are comfortable and code-compliant.
You can choose from many railing styles. Traditional wood railings match your deck boards. Or you can mix materials with metal balusters or cable railings for a modern look. We also offer custom railing designs that make your deck stand out.
Finishing
New wood needs protection from the elements. We apply professional-grade stain or sealant that penetrates deep into the wood fibers. This protects against moisture, UV damage, and wood-eating insects. You can choose transparent sealants that show the natural wood grain, or tinted stains that add color while still showing the wood texture.
Proper finishing makes a huge difference in how long your deck lasts. We prep the wood surface correctly and apply multiple coats for maximum protection. Your deck will look beautiful and be protected from day one.
Caring for Your Wood Deck
Wood decks need regular care to stay in good condition. Here is what you need to know about maintaining your investment.
Plan to clean your deck once or twice a year. Sweep off debris regularly because leaves and dirt trap moisture against the wood. When you deep clean, use a deck cleaner designed for wood. Pressure washers work but you need to use low pressure to avoid damaging the wood fibers.
Every 2 to 3 years, your deck will need fresh stain or sealant. You will know it is time when water stops beading up on the surface and soaks in instead. Re-staining protects the wood and keeps it looking fresh. We offer professional maintenance services if you prefer to have us handle it.
Check your deck each spring for any boards that need attention. Look for popped nails, loose screws, or boards that have cracked or splintered. Fixing small problems right away prevents them from becoming bigger issues. If you notice any significant damage, our repair and restoration services can address it before it spreads.
Custom Wood Deck Designs for Eau Claire Homes
Your deck should fit your property and how you want to use your outdoor space. We design custom decks in all shapes and sizes. Single-level decks work great for flat yards and create a simple, open entertaining space. Multi-level decks add visual interest and help manage slopes.
Many homeowners add features like built-in benches that provide permanent seating. Planters let you grow flowers and herbs right on your deck. Wide stairs can double as casual seating. And if you want to define different areas for cooking, dining, and relaxing, we can create zones with level changes or built-in dividers.
Deck board patterns also affect your deck's appearance. Standard perpendicular boards are most common, but diagonal or herringbone patterns create visual interest. Picture frame borders around the deck perimeter add a finished, polished look.
And if you want overhead coverage, consider adding a pergola or patio cover. These structures provide shade and shelter while protecting your wood deck from direct sun and rain, which extends its lifespan significantly.
The Value of Professional Wood Deck Installation
Building a deck looks straightforward, but there are many ways to make mistakes that cause problems later. Improper joist spacing leads to bouncy decks. Poor drainage causes rot. Incorrect fasteners rust and fail. We know all the details that separate decks that last 20 years from those that fail in 10.
We also handle all the paperwork and inspections. Eau Claire requires building permits for deck construction, and your deck needs to pass inspection. We know the local codes and build to meet or exceed them. Permitted, inspected work protects you and adds value when you sell your home.
Professional installation also saves you time and hassle. Building a deck yourself takes weekends or weeks of work. We complete most deck projects in one to two weeks with a crew that knows exactly what they are doing. You get to enjoy your new deck much faster.
And when you work with us, you get honest advice about materials, design, and costs. We have built enough decks to know what works in Eau Claire's climate and what does not. We help you make smart decisions that give you the best deck for your investment.
Common Questions About Wood Decks
Ready for a Beautiful Wood Deck?
Let's discuss your wood deck project. We will help you choose the right materials and design a deck that fits your property perfectly.
(534) 429-7461