Deck builders glossary
Short, plain-English definitions of the terms you'll meet when choosing a deck builder provider in Greater Charlotte.
- What is a baluster?
- A baluster is a vertical spindle or picket that fills the space between railing posts on a deck, subject to building code spacing and height requirements.
- What is a beam span table?
- A beam span table is an engineering reference chart that specifies the maximum allowable distance between support posts and the corresponding joist span for a given beam size and material, based on local building codes and load requirements.
- What is a cantilever in deck framing?
- A cantilever is a structural overhang where deck joists extend beyond the support beam without posts or bracing underneath, allowing portion of the deck to float over open space.
- What is a deck footing?
- A deck footing is the underground concrete base that anchors a deck post, sized and buried according to local building codes and soil conditions to prevent frost heave and settling.
- What is a deck permit and building code compliance?
- A deck permit is a document issued by a local jurisdiction authorizing deck construction and verifying that plans meet applicable building codes for safety and structural integrity.
- What is a ground contact rating?
- Ground contact rating is a pressure-treatment classification that certifies lumber can safely be buried in soil or placed directly on grade without accelerated decay.
- What is a hidden fastener system?
- A hidden fastener system uses mechanical clips installed underneath composite or PVC deck boards to attach them to the frame, leaving the visible deck surface free of screw heads.
- What is a joist hanger?
- A metal bracket that fastens the end of a joist to a beam or ledger board, holding it at the correct height and angle for deck framing.
- What is a ledger board?
- A horizontal board bolted to the house rim joist that anchors a deck structure and transfers its weight and load forces to the home's foundation.
- What is a louvered roof pergola?
- A louvered roof pergola is a patio cover with motorized or manual horizontal slats that adjust to regulate sun exposure and water drainage.
- What is a post base connector?
- A galvanized metal bracket installed between a deck post and its concrete footing to prevent wood contact with moisture, resist lateral shifting, and extend post lifespan.
- What is a stair stringer?
- A stair stringer is the angled structural board that runs beneath deck stair steps and supports the weight of the treads and anyone using the stairs.
- What is an under-deck drainage system?
- An under-deck drainage system is a ceiling-like membrane or panel installed beneath an elevated deck to collect and redirect rainwater and moisture, creating a protected dry space usable for storage or living.
- What is capped composite vs uncapped composite?
- Capped composite has a protective polymer exterior shell that shields the core from staining and fading, while uncapped composite exposes the wood-plastic blend directly to weather and UV without that protective barrier.
- What is composite decking?
- Composite decking is a engineered material made from wood fibers blended with plastic polymers that mimics the appearance of wood while resisting rot, insects, and weathering with minimal maintenance.
- What is deck board spacing?
- Deck board spacing is the small gap left between adjacent deck boards to permit water drainage and allow for expansion and contraction of the materials.
- What is flashing on a deck ledger?
- Flashing is a metal or membrane strip installed along the deck-to-house connection to prevent water infiltration into the ledger board and rim joist.
- What is frost line and footing depth?
- The frost line is the depth at which groundwater freezes during winter; deck footings must extend below this depth to prevent frost heave from pushing posts upward and destabilizing the structure.
- What is guardrail height code?
- Guardrail height code is the IRC-mandated minimum railing height required on elevated decks, typically 36 to 42 inches depending on deck height above grade.
- What is joist span rating?
- Joist span rating is the maximum horizontal distance a joist of a given species, grade, and depth can safely span between posts or support beams without deflecting excessively or failing under load.
- What is pressure treated lumber?
- Pressure treated lumber is wood infused with chemical preservatives under high pressure to resist decay and insect damage, commonly used for deck framing and structural support.
- What is PVC decking?
- Cellular PVC decking is a rigid, wood-free synthetic material made from polyvinyl chloride that resists moisture, rot, and splintering without requiring stain or seal maintenance.
- What is screen porch mesh and screen density?
- Screen mesh is the woven material stretched across a screened porch frame, measured by density (holes per inch), with options ranging from standard 16-18 mesh to fine no-see-um mesh that blocks smaller insects.
- What is the difference between a pergola and a pavilion?
- A pergola is an open-roof structure with spaced slats that allows light and air through, while a pavilion is a fully roofed outdoor structure that provides complete shade and weather protection.