Fall is here and with it many flying insects such as bees, wasps, ants, etc are making a much anticipated exit. Although this is a great relief for deck owners, there are other pests that remain throughout the fall in particular. These menaces include squirrels, chipmunks, possums, raccoons, etc. As Colonia, NJ deck builders we have seen the structural damage that these critters can cause. They do this damage by gnawing on wood, tearing up feeders, burrowing beneath your deck etc. And although it is part of our job to repair damage that is done to your deck by insects, larger critters and the simple passage of time, we believe in the old saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Therefore, our West Windsor NJ deck builders offer you the following tips for animal proofing your deck.

• Scare em! No we don’t mean that you should don a Halloween costume and stand on your deck waiting for little pests to appear. Instead, try placing a statue of a hawk or other bird of prey on your deck. Or if you own a cat or dog, let it loose on your deck from time to time to discourage squirrels in particular for making it their home.
  
• Use sound as a weapon: Leave your radio on to scare off pests who may burrow under your home. Just be careful not to run afoul of your neighbors by turning the volume up too loudly.
  
• Use smells: The smell of apple cider vinegar can be effective in repelling squirrels and other critters from your deck. Try hanging rags soaked in apple cider vinegar at various points around your deck.
• Trim trees: Raccoons in particular are good climbers and will use branches as a bridge to access various points around your home including your deck. Also, because their paws are sensitive, use dried pepper flakes and scatter it around areas where they may climb. These kinds of substances hurt their paws and dissuade them from climbing structures around your home.
• Secure the areas beneath your deck: A common port of entry for your deck can be its underside. Consider adding fencing of some kind in order to block off this area from critters.
• Remove food and water sources: Never leave edibles out on your deck. Clean the area of what small animals may find tempting otherwise they may end up making your deck their version of a grocery store.

Critters are persistent, resilient little opportunists. It is up to us humans to outwit them and to remain vigilant lest they damage our homes and possessions. Follow the above tips and you will extend the life and enjoyment of your deck.

Everyone knows that pool decks are slippery by nature. However, other kinds of outdoor decks can be just as slippery especially as the summer wanes and fall and winter are in the offing. The sun and warmth of summer dries decks to a degree, while the wetter and colder winter weather brings back a certain lethal slipperiness to these outdoor spaces. During the time when decks become more hazardous due to these conditions, responsible deck owners begin to look for ways to lessen the chances that they and their guests or families will become the victim of slip and falls. Here are some ways we recommend keeping the visitors to your deck safe this fall and winter.

• Keep your deck clean: Mold, algae, and moss as well as other organic matter can combine with moisture to turn your deck into a slip and slide. Be vigilant and clean your deck thoroughly when these potential hazards begin to form. They are as dangerous as they are unsightly.
• Use non-slip mats or strips: Add these to the high traffic, slipperiest part of your deck for peace of mind and remember to adhere them properly to the surface.
• Check the safety of your railings: Often when someone slips on a deck they can prevent a fall by grasping the railing. However, a railing that is weak will be less likely to prevent such an accident. Contact our Chatham, NJ deck builders so that they can gauge the strength of your deck railing.
  
• Use Non-slip coatings: These are acrylic-based and can be added to decks just like a paint or sealer. Available types include: Anti-slip decking paint, Decking non-slip varnish and anti-slip decking oils & stain.
• Replace your deck: If your deck is structurally unsound and continues to be a slip and fall hazard the best thing to do is to replace it. The safety of your friends and family may be at risk if you continue to use a deck that is weak and that presents such hazards. Our Short Hills, NJ deck builders will work with you to create the deck of your dreams that is safe, attractive and well-built.
  

Yes, decks become slippery over time due to a number of factors. These factors include moisture, debris, mold, fungi and, frankly, lack of proper care. When your deck begins to show its age or otherwise becomes a slip and fall hazard, consider seeing us and having it replaced with a brand new deck.

Summer is a time that is sprawling with new life. Flowers are blooming and bees are returning once again in order to continue their cycle of collecting honey and distributing pollen, etc. Unfortunately, some of the insects that are returning to New Jersey and its surrounding areas destroy wood as part of their life cycles. Yes, wood boring insects present a constant threat to any wood structure and summer sees these menaces returning to their destructive ways. But what types of wood consuming insects are native to our area? Here are a few of the more prolific insect varieties that you should be on the lookout for.

• Termites: Sometimes known as “white ants” termites do more damage to homes than storms, fires and floods combined. They not only damage the foundation of wood structures, they also cause cosmetic damage to fences, decks and other areas of your home. Signs of infestation include sagging floors and hollowed out wood, droppings, mud tubes on exterior walls, etc.
• Carpenter Bees: Unlike termites, carpenter bees don’t actually consume wood but they do bore holes into wood where they hibernate over the winter only to emerge in spring and summer. Signs you may have carpenter bees include yellowish stains on your deck and of course hovering bees.
  
  
• Powder Post Beetles: These pests are reddish-brown in color and have narrow, flat bodies 1/8 to ¼ inches long. Powder post beetles are common to New Jersey and lay their eggs on the surface of bare, unfinished wood.

Of course, one the best methods for dealing with these pests once infection sets in is to hire an exterminator who is experienced in detecting and destroying these kinds of insects. They can immediately determine the extent of the damage and advise you on how to prevent further infestations. However, a more sound preventative measure is to have your deck built with treated lumber that resists these kinds of nuisances. As custom deck builders in NJ, we can not only build a deck to your exact specifications, but our pressure treated decks can prevent wood boring insects from setting up shop around your home. Moreover, our NJ deck refinishing experts can mitigate any damage these pests may have already caused to your deck.
Finally, don’t let wood boring insects ruin your deck. Choose experts who can properly install a deck made of treated lumber and you will be able to enjoy it for generations.

You’re all ready to enjoy the lovely spring and soon to come summer with friends and family out on your deck when party crashers arrive and ruin everything. They bite, sting and annoy your guests destroying the relaxed atmosphere you are trying to create. We’re referring, of course, to mosquitoes which are the bane of every outdoor gathering for not only are they nuisances; certain types are capable of transmitting a whole list of dangerous diseases to their victims. So how do you protect your family and friends from these perennial menaces? Here are some tips for keeping these pests away from your outdoor gatherings.

• Empty free-standing water: Mosquitoes transmit diseases such as malaria, West Nile virus, yellow fever,  Japanese encephalitis and Zika fever to name but a few. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that you keep your gutters clean and your birdbaths, old tires, wheelbarrows, and swimming pool covers clear of standing water. Mosquitoes leave their larvae in water. Drop a larvicide, such as bleach, into stagnant pools of water that cannot be emptied.
• Correct drainage problems beneath your deck: As Chatham, NJ deck builders we know that in the area beneath your deck, indentations can sometimes form. In these indentations, water can collect. We recommend that you fill these areas in with sand to prevent mosquitoes from depositing their larvae.
  
• Install potted mosquito repellent plants: Plants like Citronella, Mint, Rosemary, Lemon Grass and others naturally repel mosquitoes and can make your deck look more attractive.
• Use mosquito repellent incense: Citronella candles and incense can be found in many kinds of brick and mortar stores and online. They are generally quite effective at repelling mosquitoes and gnats.
• Maintain your landscape: Mosquitoes seek refuge in overgrown grass, weeds and hedges. They take shelter amongst the cool vegetation during hot summer days. Regularly cut the grass and hedges around your deck in order to prevent them from hiding there.
  
• Consider adding an enclosed deck: It is much easier to control the environment on an enclosed deck than it is to control the environment of one that is not. As Westfield, NJ deck builders, we build sturdy deck enclosures too.
  
• Apply repellant: The active ingredient in Off™ is DEET. Spray a little on before going outside on your deck.

Finally, don’t let mosquitoes and other flying insects doom your outdoor gathering. Try some or all of the above methods and you will increase the enjoyment of your deck and provide a safe, healthy environment for your friends and family.

​Summer 2017 is rapidly approaching and for those us who enjoy entertaining outdoors it is once again time to play host to our friends among a setting of games, food and conversation. In fact, this is one of many advantages of owning a pool deck. Anyone, with the right preparation can play host to spectacularly memorable, outdoor gatherings. But because it has been awhile since most of us have had our friends and neighbors over to sit out under the stars with our glow-sticks, brightly colored lanterns and tiki torches – at least eight months – we would like to refresh you on pulling off the perfect pool party.

• Check the forecast: When planning a day for your party, make sure to check and re-check the forecast. Not checking to be sure that your party is not ruined by rain or high winds says to your guests that you lacked the forethought to guarantee that they would have good time.
• Prepare the furniture: Clean off your old sofas, chairs, benches, etc., that have been in storage during the winter months.
• Invitations: Send out cute, tropical-themed invitations to friends and family who you wish to attend your party. You can find summer themed E-invites online or you can go old school and send out paper invitations.
• Supply plenty of games: Pool parties for children are very different from adult pool parties but people of all ages enjoy playing games. Consider buying games like Giant Jenga, Slide and Toss, bean bag ladder toss and water balloon dodge ball.
• Bring floatables: Not everyone will want to dive right into the pool and play games like Marco Polo. For those who prefer to sit on the side of the pool or float nearby its edge supply inflatable rafts for food, drink, magazines, etc.
• Set the mood: The proper lighting is an absolute must for outdoor pool parties that are held at night. Use floating tiki torches, lanterns, etc. to give the party a warm, cozy atmosphere.
• Let the music play: Sync your Spotify, Pandora or Live365 Internet Radio account with quality Bluetooth speakers to supply your guest with music.

 
Yes, there is a reason our pool decks are so popular. Summer is the time for outdoor parties and nothing is more relaxing for guests and friends than a pool party held upon a spotless, meticulously decorated deck. Our custom deck builders in NJ have experience building decks that will add value to your home and increase its curb appeal. If you currently do not have a pool deck, our custom deck contractors in Cranbury can consult with you every step of the way as they build you a deck upon which you will be able to hold pool parties for years to come. 

The breath of spring is back touching our gardens and reviving all those beautiful, flowering plants that we all love so much. However, there is no reason that this beautiful scene has to be confined to our gardens and patios. It is a simple thing to extend this beauty to our decks by landscaping them with equally beautiful scenery. Here are some tips to help you increase the beauty of your home and extend your garden to your deck.
 

• Buy pots of various sizes: You can create an infinite range of possibilities by buying pots to accommodate plants of different sizes. Plant holders, boxes and pots come in a variety of styles and colors and can be purchased at your local hardware store or the lawn and garden center in stores like Walmart, etc.
  
  
• Know each plant’s growth requirements: Knowing a plant’s height and sun requirements are necessary in order to help your garden thrive. Also, be sure to check the soil preference and hardiness rating of each plant you buy.
  
  
• Use special soil: Be sure that your container soil is well drained, especially if you intend to grown vegetables in your deck garden.
• Buy the right tools: Whether you are tending a traditional garden, a deck garden or your lawn, it is essential to have the right tools. Be sure to have a well-made, flexible hose and durable hose nozzle as well as other gardening implements in order to help your plants (and small trees) grow.
• Make sure you have the room: Make sure that you have the room to tend your plants and to move around freely without moving furniture when caring for your garden.
• Make sure your deck is well maintained: There is no sense in starting a garden if your deck is not in proper condition. Our deck repair contractors in NJ, can inspect and repair your deck if needed to match the beauty of anything you may choose to plant there. Our deck repair in NJ is quick and our crews are courteous and knowledgeable.

 
Advantages of having Deck Garden
 
There are many advantages to having a deck garden. In fact, in some instances the benefits outweigh those of a traditional garden.
 

• A disease contracted by a single plant is less likely to spread to others.
• Rearranging plants are easier with a container garden.
• There is less back pain involved in tending a deck garden.
• Off leash pets and wild life are less likely to ruin a deck garden.

 
In short, starting a deck garden is not the chore some people believe it to be. It can enhance and beautify your home in a new and interesting way. Besides, what better way is there to pay tribute to the beauty of the season than by extending it to your deck?

We all know that lighting, as it is used all throughout our homes, can be decorative as well as functional. Think of the candles we add to our bedrooms or alongside our bathtubs when relaxing for the evening. Picture the colorful lights we use to enhance the mood of our parties and get togethers. For this reason we strive to create just the right mood in our homes using a variety of lighting techniques. Well, lighting applied to outdoor decks can also create an atmosphere of romance, serenity or even a whimsy. As deck contractors in NJ, we can especially appreciate how just the right lighting can make decks more beautiful and cozy as well as more secure. That’s why we challenge our customers to regard lighting as more than a mere afterthought. Here are some lighting design ideas that either we or you can use to accentuate and beautify your deck.

• On and around the home: Using the same light fixtures that you would use around and atop your home is a popular way that many people choose to brighten their decks.
  
  
• Step and stair lighting: Illuminating stair risers are attractive and also a good safety idea. They can cast enough lighting to guide guests making sure that everyone has a safe time during your barbecues, parties, etc.
  
  
• Post caps: These can be LED lights that slip under a post cap and incorporate themselves into the design of your deck. They provide a warm ambience for entertaining.
  
  
• Floor lights: These can give the illusion of the stars being below as well as above your guest.
  
  
• Railing lights: Place strings of LED lights around the railing to further enhance the look of your deck on cozy winter or summer nights.
  
  
• Candles: What kind of lighting is more romantic than candlelight? The wonderful thing about using candles to help light your deck is that they are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased nearly anywhere. Just be careful with placement.
  
  
• Outdoor Recessed LED Lighting: Perfect for decks, patios and embedding in concrete walkways, recessed lighting is an extremely versatile way to illuminate and accent your barbecue, your furniture, your hot tub etc. We can install them as deck builders in Far Hills NJ.

Think of the color combinations and the moods that can be created when you make lighting design a high priority in your selection of decks. It can give your deck an air of beauty and elegance that your neighbors will envy and your family and guests will enjoy.

If you’re reading this post then you, like so many others, are someone who appreciates the beauty and functionality that a deck can add to a home. A deck can be a grand symbol to neighbors of the pride you take in your home and neighborhood’s appearance as well as a place for friends and family to gather. You already know or suspect that or you would not be on this site. However, just as a well built, well maintained deck can add to a home’s beauty and value, a poorly built or maintained deck can take so much away from a home. Several problems prevent many people from having their dream deck. As deck repair contractors in NJ, we are familiar with all these problems and more. Here are a few of the challenges that may be ruining your deck.

Weather, wind and water: From the sun’s scorching heat to rain to snow and wind, your deck is under constant assault by the elements. Such environmental conditions can lead to anything from peeling, warping, discoloration to the growth of fungus, especially if your deck is not properly treated and maintained. We are experts in identifying the factors that may eventually damage your deck with time.

Insects: Unfortunately, the insect world is populated by many wood-eating menaces that can damage your deck. These insects include: termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees, powderpost beetles, moths, wood wasps and others. Again, properly treated lumber and regularly scheduled inspections can minimize the damage that these pests can cause.General wear and tear: Over time foot traffic, the weight of furniture added to your deck and other things can cause discoloration, cracking and even structural damage to occur. For minor damage some people choose to find DIY solutions. However, if you are in doubt you should call us for NY deck refinishing, construction and/or repair.
 
Design flaws: Speaking of DIY, we can appreciate how some people wish to do their own deck repair and or design but nothing beats the work of professionals. Professionals can identify poorly installed decks, damaged or substandard hardware etc. that may elude detection by amateurs. We can even correct a poorly constructed deck that was erected by other contractors.
 
Finally, if you have or are considering adding a deck to your home then you will naturally want to get the most utility from it that you can. You can do so by understanding how these factors can take away from the beauty and functionality of your deck. However, the good news is that none of these challenges is too big for our professionals to handle. With our help, your deck can add beauty and value to your home for years to come.

We at Decks by Ziec realize that designing a deck is not always simply a matter of showing our customers a design and having them sign off on those plans. Many of our customers choose to actively give their input into the process and we encourage this. This input can range from consulting with our designers as they craft the perfect deck to submitting plans themselves. (There are several software programs that let people create virtual deck designs.) So whichever one you wish to do – oversee and give suggestions to one of our deck contractors in NJ or submit your own design – here are some tips that will help you design the perfect deck for your home.

• Make sure you know your local ordinances: Before you even begin your project acquaint yourself with local building ordinances. They may restrict the size, materials, composition and other factors related to the design of your deck.

 

• Decide your budget in advance: The size of your budget helps to determine the design, size and materials that will be used in building your deck.

 

• Decide on how much space you have: Take meticulous measurements (or let us do this) in order to determine how much space you have to work with. Space will determine the type of deck that we can design for you and ultimately construct.

 

• Determine your needs: What will you use your deck for? Will it primarily be used for entertainment or for decoration? Lifestyle determines greatly how a deck will be designed or how our existing designs can be customized to fit your needs.

 

• What components will you wish to add: Will you wish to add a fireplace or fire pit to your deck? Will you wish to add extra seating, surround sound, mood lighting, a Jacuzzi or hot tub to your deck for holding large get-togethers? The answer to these questions will help in determining how our designs will suit your lifestyle.

 
Ultimately, designing a deck takes almost as much thought as actually building one does. In fact, it has been our experience that the design phase of deck building may take more thought than the actual construction. After all, once the plans have been finalized and agreed to all that is left is the actual building of the deck. Our company can save you a lot of time if you prefer to merely consult with us as we show you some of our most popular designs. We even provide deck repair in NJ for those who are looking to refurbish and strengthen their existing deck.