Adding a deck to your home in Minnesota can make your outdoor space more enjoyable and can even boost your home’s value. Decks are great for summer cookouts, taking in the quiet beauty of winter, or just relaxing outside. But building a deck in Minnesota can be tricky due to the changing weather.
The winters in Minnesota are frigid and the summers are hot and humid. These variations put a strain on your deck materials. There are other factors that make building a deck in Minnesota a challenge. In fact, there are some fairly common mistakes that are made that you should avoid. In this article, we will go over several of the most common ones so you don’t fall into the same trap.
Choosing the wrong materials
Selecting the right materials for your deck is one of the most important things you can do, especially in Minnesota where the weather can swing from very hot summers to freezing winters. Not all decking materials are the same, and some will hold up better against these harsh conditions than others so a common mistake is picking materials that can’t handle the weather.
Green treated wood is a common choice for many homeowners because it’s treated with chemicals to resist rot, decay, and termites. It’s a more economical option than some other materials and performs well in harsh weather conditions, making it suitable for Minnesota’s climate. Regular maintenance, including resealing every few years, is still necessary to maintain its durability and appearance.
Cedar is another popular wood choice for decking due to its natural resistance to moisture, decay, and insect damage. Its rich, warm color and unmistakable aroma make it a favorite for outdoor spaces. However, cedar requires more maintenance than green treated wood. It needs to be stained and sealed regularly to preserve its color and protect it from the elements.
Composite decking, made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, offers a more durable alternative that resists rot, mold, and fading. Brands like Trex, Timbertech, and Azek are popular as they have a variety of styles and colors that mimic the natural beauty of wood without the high maintenance.
While it’s more expensive upfront, composite materials require less maintenance over time, making them a cost-effective option in the long run and are used by Thunderstruck Restorations which is a deck builder in Anoka, Minnesota.
Ignoring the realities of the weather
Building a deck in Minnesota means preparing for a wide range of weather conditions. The state experiences hot, humid summers and bitterly cold, snowy winters. This extreme variability can be tough on outdoor structures, including decks and if it is ignored can be a major mistake.
You have to think about how water from rain and snow will drain off the deck. Without proper drainage, water can pool on the surface, leading to wood rot or the spread of mold and mildew, especially in shaded areas. Make sure your deck has a slight slope away from your house and using spacers between boards for proper water runoff can prevent these issues.
Another factor often overlooked is the direction your deck faces. A deck that receives excessive sunlight can become uncomfortably hot and experience quicker degradation of materials like wood. On the other hand, a deck in constant shade can struggle with dampness and moss. Positioning your deck to balance sunlight and shade can extend its life and be more comfortable to sit around on.
Poor foundation
The foundation is the backbone of any deck, and in Minnesota, it’s imperative to get this right due to the deep frost lines. A common mistake is not installing the footings deep enough, which can lead to shifting and instability as the ground freezes and thaws.
For a deck in Minnesota, footings must be placed below the frost line to prevent upheaval during freeze-thaw cycles. This typically means digging at least 42 inches deep, the standard depth to surpass the frost line in most areas of the state. Skimping on this step can result in a deck that moves, cracks, or leans over time.
Another important consideration is the size and type of footings used. Using footings that are too small or not suited to the soil type can compromise the deck’s stability. Concrete piers or precast footings are often recommended because they provide a solid base that distributes the deck’s weight evenly, reducing the risk of sinking or settling.
Skimping on quality fasteners
Deck fasteners hold the entire deck structure together, and using inferior quality or incorrect types can lead to serious safety issues and reduced lifespan of the deck.
In Minnesota, where the deck will be exposed to moisture and harsh winters, fasteners that are resistant to corrosion are required. Stainless steel or coated fasteners are the best choices because they can withstand the moisture from snow and rain without rusting or weakening. Using non-corrosion-resistant fasteners can result in rusty spots, which not only look unsightly but also weaken the structural integrity of the deck over time.
The type of fastener used should match the decking material. For instance, certain treated woods and composite materials may require specific types of screws to prevent chemical reactions that can weaken the material. Failure to use the right fasteners can cause the materials to deteriorate too quickly.
Investing in high-quality fasteners might seem like a small detail, but it’s the only way to make sure that your deck remains safe and sturdy for years to come. Avoid the temptation to save money on cheaper, lower-quality options.
Conclusion
Building a deck in Minnesota brings with it a few unique challenges. But with careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a beautiful and durable outdoor space. The key to a successful deck highly depends on understanding the specific demands of your environment and responding with the right techniques and materials.
With the tips from this article, you’re well on your way to enjoying the many benefits of your new deck for years to come.
