Ask Mason tagged 'decks'

Porch on Piers Better than a Porsche with Beers

Mason — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:00:00 -1800

Mason,

I just purchased a home in the Bon Air area. It has a nice screened porch on the back which I simply love. My only concern is that it is built on piers. It appears to be structurally sound but it concerns me that it does not have a complete-solid foundation. Am I over-reacting or is this something I should be concerned about?

- BP, Chesterfield, VA

Congratulations on your new home! It is so exciting to mak [...]

Getting Decked-Out

Mason — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -1800

Dear AskMason:

My wife and I are planning to build a new deck soon. It seems like salt-treated wood is not used too much anymore. Why? We have heard about and seen Trex, as well as Ipe and other materials. We’re confused! Which is the best??

John in Goochland

John:

Advance congratulations on your upcoming improvements! A deck is a great way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors in Central Virginia!

I love your question for two reasons: 1) Ob [...]