Building a beautiful Mendocino Redwood deck can be a rewarding experience that will enhance your family’s lifestyle for many years to come.  With careful planning and preparation, you’ll have a deck that looks professional and is strong and durable. Preparing your yard for a Mendocino Redwood deck is not difficult if you follow these tips.

First of all, take a look around your yard to determine any problems that will need to be solved, such as steep slopes or existing landscaping that will need to be removed.    Examine the area where you would like to build your deck at different times of the day to check light patterns and try to avoid either full sun or full shade if possible. Next, check with your utility company to locate any underground power lines and keep these in mind when positioning your deck.  Also, call your local municipality or town for any required permits or regulations.

Then, select your final deck design (for ideas, visit our Plans & Inspiration page). Use a professional plan or draw up your own to scale and begin to survey the area where your Mendocino Redwood deck will be built.   Clear any undesirable landscaping, rocks or other debris and use stakes and twine to carefully measure; next you will want to mark according to your plan.

Once you have exact measurements, it’s time to plan for costs and order your materials. Of course, Mendocino Redwood is the perfect choice for a deck that is naturally beautiful and durable, as well as environmentally friendly. Mendocino Redwood decking materials are available at The Home Depot. Visit our Store Locator page to find a store near you.

When you’re ready to prepare your deck area for construction, determine the sites for footings and piers (these should be according to local building codes) and dig holes.  Remove sod to prepare area and grade so that you have a gentle slope for drainage. Then, cover area with landscaping fabric and about 3 inches of gravel.

With your site prepared and ready for construction, you’re halfway to the deck of your dreams!

For detailed instructions on the “how to” of construction, visit our Build a Deck page and download our Redwood Deck Construction brochure.

A well-built and maintained Mendocino Redwood deck is a naturally beautiful focal point for outdoor living. As our thoughts turn to backyard entertaining, however, it’s important to keep deck safety in mind, and since May is Deck Safety Month, it’s the perfect time to evaluate newly built as well as older decks.

In 2006, the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA)   designated May as “Deck Safety Month” after noticing an alarming rise in the number of deck collapses and resultant injuries.  NADRA decided it needed to raise public awareness about this issue by declaring this the official month for routine safety assessments and offering consumers a convenient checklist to use.

Below is an abbreviated consumer deck safety checklist, adapted from the NADRA website: www.nadra.org. You may also download a PDF version of the complete Deck Safety Consumer Checklist.

• Split or decaying wood: check several different areas of the deck to be sure the wood is still sound.  Test for any decay or insect infestation that may be present.
• Flashing: be sure the flashing (metal or plastic guard to direct water away from the house) is sound and replace if you notice areas that are collecting water.
• Loose or corroded fasteners: tighten or replace any fasteners that have become loose or corroded, since these can lead to deterioration in the wood.
• Railings and banisters: should be built to code (usually 36-42 inches high and no more than 4 inches apart).  Make sure they are secure.
• Stairs:  check to make sure they are firmly attached showing no decay, with no more than 4 inches between open treads.  Clear stairs of toys, planters and other items.
• Cleaning and maintenance:  clean debris, check for mildew, scrub and apply a waterproof coating. For Mendocino Redwood maintenance tips and instructions, visit our Easy Maintenance page.
• Grills, fire pits, candles, etc.:  any source of heat should be placed away from flammable surfaces and used with caution.
• Lighting and electrical:  make sure lighting is clean and working properly and that electrical cords are in good condition.
• Outdoor furniture and storage:  should be properly installed and secure.  Be sure to child proof storage areas that may house any backyard chemicals, which must be stored safely out of reach.
• Surrounding trees:  overhanging trees should be trimmed to avoid breakage and possible damage or injury.

As you can see, evaluating your deck for safety is an important item to add to your spring to-do list.

Remember also, that Mendocino Redwood decking is strong and durable, naturally decay and insect resistant, as well as dimensionally stable.  In addition, it has earned class B compliance with California’s strict fire codes.  With Mendocino Redwood, you’re making a safe choice for your family.

To find and purchase Mendocino Redwood decking for your next outdoor project, please visit our Store Locator page. Mendocino Redwood is available exclusively at The Home Depot stores throughout California and the western United States.

On Sunday, April 22^nd Oakland A’s fans enjoyed a great game, wonderful weather, and a special Earth Day celebration courtesy of Mendocino Redwood. The A’s faced off against the Cleveland Indians and won the game 5-1 on a warm and sunny day in Oakland. At the end of the game, 10,000 redwood seedlings were handed out to fans as they exited the stadium.

Mendocino Forest Products’ VP of Marketing, Carter Welch, was interviewed during the game by A’s in-game correspondent, Kara, and educated attendants about the benefits of planting a tree on Earth Day as well as why Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC®) certification is important when it comes to purchasing lumber products. Mendocino Redwood lumber products are available exclusively at The Home Depot, a long-time supporter of the mission of the Forest Stewardship Council.

Press coverage of the event included a mention on MLB.com as well as a recap of the game on the Oakland Athletics website.

Mendocino Redwood and the Oakland A’s will be planning a similar event for 2013, so check our website for upcoming details and information!

An attractive fence can add plenty of curb appeal to your home while functioning to enhance the quality of your life. Whether you are considering a fence to enclose a pool or play area, create privacy for your backyard get-togethers, or discourage trespassers, Mendocino Redwood fencing is the natural choice for beauty, harmony with the environment and long lasting durability.

Begin by asking yourself some basic questions about your fencing needs, keeping in mind your family’s lifestyle and budget:

• What is the purpose of your fence, and what kind of design will fit with your home’s style?
• What views would you like to block and which would you like to enhance? For example, if your yard borders a wooded area, you may want to frame and showcase your trees; if your yard backs to the street, you will probably want a taller fence for more privacy.
• Are there sections of the fence that will be incorporated into your garden design, with the use of climbing flowers, etc.?
• Do you have existing structures, such as arbors or trellises that will need to be considered?

As you answer these questions and get your Mendocino Redwood fence ideas down on paper, begin to sketch out a basic site plan and design. Look through some home improvement, landscaping or gardening magazines, check out our link to fence ideas, or download our Redwood Fences for All Reasons brochure for some great design ideas.

You’ll find there are many designs to choose from: traditional picket style; craftsman style; “dog-eared” for a Victorian look; latticework and basket weave, to name a few. Once you’ve decided on a style or styles that you like, take some measurements, compare costs and consult a professional for your final plan, if your budget allows.

And remember that Mendocino Redwood is the perfect choice for a fence that is economical, easy to maintain and naturally beautiful for many years to come. Find our Mendocino Redwood fencing products at The Home Depot stores across the Western U.S. Visit our Store Locator page to find a Home Depot store in your area.

OAKLAND, Calif. – In recognition of Earth Day, observed globally April 22 to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth’s natural environment, the A’s will give a redwood seedling to 10,000 fans Sunday before the A’s 1:05 p.m. game vs. Cleveland, courtesy of FSC® certified Mendocino® Redwood.

This partnership with Mendocino Redwood continues the A’s ongoing commitment to being environmentally conscious. Here are other examples of the A’s greening efforts over the years:

• During the 2011 season, the A’s, through composting and recycling of cardboard, glass, metal, plastics and paper, helped divert 45 percent of Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum’s trash away from landfills. This marked the highest percentage in the history of the organization’s recycling program at the ballpark. Overall, the team recycled 332.93 tons of materials in 2011.
• The A’s aggressively separate recyclables during post-game stadium cleanup, compost food scraps and lawn clippings, partner with ARAMARK to recycle cooking oils, and work with the maintenance staff to curb water waste.
• The A’s were the first professional sports team to use compostable beverage cups, made of compostable cornstarch instead of plastic, in 2005.
• Oakland was the first professional sports team in the U.S. to test mobile ticketing technology in 2006, and one of three MLB teams to implement it in 2007, eliminating the need of carrying a paper ticket.
• The organization uses eco-friendly consumables, recycled paper hand towels and toilet paper, motion-censored lights and efficient light bulbs in executive offices, and recently discontinued the use of disposable cups in the office kitchen and changed printer settings to print all documents double-sided.
• Through the team’s partnership with BART, the A’s promote the use of public transportation to and from A’s home games.
• The club has hosted multiple E-waste recycling events over the years, and planted trees on previous Earth Days.

Mendocino Forest Products Company, LLC manufactures and distributes the FSC certified Mendocino brand of redwood and Douglas-fir lumber products. The Mendocino brand is available exclusively at The Home Depot stores throughout California and the Western U.S.

Tickets for A’s home games can be purchased at all usual ticket outlets, including the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Box Office, online at www.oaklandathletics.com/tickets, or over the phone by calling 877-493-BALL (2255). Season, group (including all fundraising options) and suite tickets can be purchased by calling 510-638-GoA’s (4627).

# # # # #

A’s Media Contact: Kristy Fick, Senior Manager, Player and Media Relations

510-563-2236; kfick@oaklandathletics.com

When designing your deck, it’s important to first create a vision for your outdoor living space.  The deck is an important transitional space between your home and yard that should reflect your own personal style and be a comfortable, functional place to relax and entertain. No longer just a small square or rectangular stepping stone to your backyard, today’s decks can be beautiful, expansive spaces for family members to spend quality time together.

Next, identify your available space, noting any problem areas that will need to be addressed in the planning and construction stages, such as a steep slope, the need for a privacy screen, or trees and other landscape fixtures that need to be built around.

Then, consider your family’s needs.  What function do you want your deck to serve: A quiet meditative haven with a hot tub, beautiful potted flowers and wind chimes?  A comfortable lounge room for teens?  A space for dining and entertaining, including a bar and grill area?  Perhaps you’d like to think about multiple levels with steps to define spaces, combining all of the above with a fire pit area for drinks and conversation on chilly nights.  Screened enclosures and awnings can extend your deck’s usability even when the outdoor environment is less than ideal.

Mendocino Redwood is the ideal material to consider when planning a new deck for your home.   Redwood decks are naturally beautiful and environmentally friendly, resist damage by insects and decay and create a lasting statement of quality.

Mendocino Redwood deck ideas come in all shapes and sizes. Besides being naturally beautiful, naturally strong and durable, one of the best parts about Mendocino Redwood decking? It is readily available at The Home Depot stores throughout the Western U.S. Visit our Store Locator page to find a store in your area and start putting your Mendocino Redwood deck ideas on paper to create your own outdoor haven.

In celebration of Earth Day on Sunday, April 22^nd, Mendocino Redwood has teamed up with the Oakland A’s! We will be handing out free redwood seedlings at the game to everyone to take home and plant! Not only will fans of the game enjoy watching the A’s match up against the Cleveland Indians, but they will also have the opportunity to do something great for the environment and their local community by planting a tree.

Mendocino Redwood is the environmentally sustainable, eco friendly choice for beautiful decks and fences and is available only at Home Depot. Mendocino Redwood lumber products are Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC®) certified, which means they are certified to the highest environmental standards for lumber products in the world. Learn more about our FSC Certification and support responsible forestry practices by purchasing lumber and paper products bearing the FSC logo. To find Mendocino Redwood products at your local Home Depot, please visit our Store Locator.

Game time on Earth Day, Sunday, April 22^nd is 1:05 p.m. at the Oakland Coliseum. Come get your free redwood seedling and cheer on the Oakland A’s! We look forward to seeing you there and hope you enjoy planting your redwood seedling! To give you a sneak peek at the redwood seedlings, check out the photo collage above.

The April 2012 issue of LBM Journal features the biggest-and-best-ever roundup of decking products including a variety of decking surface materials as well as fasteners and connectors, and railing and lighting products. This robust collection of the best decking materials available on the market today also includes Humboldt Redwood decking, a sister brand to Mendocino Redwood. You may download a copy of the original LBM Journal Decking Materials article to read it in its entirety. The section featuring Humboldt Redwood decking is provided below as well.

FSC® Certified Humboldt™ Redwood Decking

Humboldt Redwood is a leading producer of sustainable, Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC®) certified, redwood decking. FSC certification is regarded as one of the toughest standards for forestry management in the world, and the FSC product labeling system provides a credible link between responsible forest management and products containing wood. In terms of beauty, it can be tough to beat the warmth, color, and lasting character of Humboldt Redwood decking. And with shear strength that’s described as five times greater than plastic composite lumber, Humboldt Redwood decking will not split as easily as some other materials. The natural durability of Humboldt Redwood decking renders it resistant to insects and decay. Maintained properly, a Humboldt Redwood deck can last 25 years, after which it can be reused or recycled.

www.getredwood.com/lbm

Decking trends in 2012 is the in-depth feature article of the April 2012 issue of LBM Journal. Featuring industry insights and interviews with a number of leading decking manufacturers, this article provides an in-depth look at current and evolving trends in the world of decking and outdoor living. A summary of the article is provided below. You may also download the original LBM Journal 2012 Decking Trends article to read it in its entirety.

Deck sales long have been associated with upgrading homes and replacing existing projects, and marketers indicate that project interest is growing as the economy improves.

“We’re definitely seeing a rebound in decking projects,” says Carter Welch, vice president of marketing for Mendocino Forest Products Co. in Windsor, Calif. “Our research shows that homeowners were delaying maintenance and new projects until the economy improved, and now those projects are starting up. Contractors and dealers are both seeing a fuller pipeline.”

Aesthetics Rule

According to one marketer, “Deck purchases all start with aesthetics.” To that end, decking manufacturers are upgrading and expanding their lines, especially adding new colors and multi-tone looks. Customers are looking to add more colors and style overall, such as patterns and designs in their decks.

High-Performance Upgrade

Consumers are taking a closer look at how “performance” is actually defined and which companies support their products best. Contractors too are paying more attention to avoid callbacks or having to redo projects at their expense. According to one marketer, “Especially with PVC and composite products, the bar has been raised on what performance and low maintenance mean.” Meanwhile, wood products can tout their low-maintenance qualities. According to the California Redwood Associations’ Charlie Jourdain, “Redwood decks have a strong 25-year life cycle, and we consider that the life cycle for any deck before a homeowner looks to upgrade or replace it.”

Green Building Plays Role

Wood manufacturers see more interest in getting back to natural materials. According to Mendocino Forest Products’ Carter Welch, “Contractors definitely are getting more inquires on green decking products and how homeowners can create more green outdoor living space.”

Wood manufacturers also cite life-cycle studies completed for their products, which show the cradle-to-grave energy cost for wood being lower than for other materials. “There’s definitely a trend toward more natural and environmental-friendly products…” adds another marketer.

Hidden Fasteners Dominate

As homeowners look to make their decks more an extension of their homes, they also want a clean, smooth appearance. That has caused a dramatic rise in hidden-fastener systems. Accessory pieces such as exterior mouldings and fascia, are also gaining popularity.

With so much activity underway in an otherwise down economy, decking marketers are encouraged by what lies ahead. Many companies, such as Mendocino Forest Products, are exploring markets beyond their current distribution. Evolving technologies will also likely play a role in expanding features and uses for decking materials.

The California Redwood Association (CRA) recently enlisted help from the independent Consortium for Research on Renewable Industrial Materials (CORRIM) to conduct a life cycle assessment (LCA) to better understand and compare redwood decking to plastic composite decking. CORRIM is a non-profit research consortium with members from 16 universities and research institutions such as the USDA Forest Products Laboratory. CORRIM has been involved in the field of LCA for well over a decade and is among the most respected institutions performing such work.

Results of the LCA are conclusive, showing that considerable differences exist between redwood and alternative decking products such as plastics and plastic composites. In terms of global warming potential, plastic-based decking materials are contributors, while growing, harvesting and using redwood for decks do not contribute to global warming.

Regarding other important environmental impacts, plastic-based decking contributes anywhere from twice as much to 100 times as much negative effects as redwood. Redwood decks store the carbon that was originally absorbed as CO2 from the atmosphere while the trees were growing. In fact, the average redwood deck may store over half a ton of carbon. Once the redwood deck has reached the end of its lifespan, it is easily recycled or reused for other purposes, or reabsorbed into the earth as nutrients for new plants. On the other extreme are plastic composites, which will stack up for decades in landfills.

Detailed data was collected from CRA member mills on such items as raw material production (harvest), manufacture (energy usage), product distribution (transportation), product installation and use (lifespan), and final product disposal at end of life (reuse vs. landfill).

According to Dean Kerstetter, v.p. of operations for Mendocino Forest Products, “The quantity and detail of information gathered by the CORRIM team was truly amazing. Rick Bergman, CORRIM team member with the USDA Forest Products Lab in Madison, Wi., visited our manufacturing facilities in Ukiah, Ca., for two days collecting detailed data on log storage and handling, type of sawmill equipment, dry kilns, boiler, planer-basically anything that consumed energy.”

Han-Sup Han, professor of forest operations & engineering at Humboldt State University, Arcata, Ca., is the CORRIM researcher who spent days visiting forestlands of CRA member mills throughout the redwood region. According to Professor Han, the forest resource data collection phase of LCA integrates site preparation, stand establishment, stand management, and timber harvest factors associated with forest management into a presentation of total cost, fuel consumption, and carbon footprint for various levels of management intensity.

“The redwood lumber industry has known for years that we have an outstanding environmental record and a great green message to tell consumers,” said Janet Webb, president of Big Creek Lumber Co., Davenport, Ca., and current chair of the CRA. “Operating in accordance with the strict provisions of the California Forest Practices Act places any industrial or non-industrial forest landowner or timber operation at the forefront of environmental responsibility. This new LCA reinforces our beliefs that redwood is a world class product in terms of environmental performance.”

You may also read the full article When Red Is Green: Tests Confirm Environmental Superiority of Redwood to learn more about these important findings and why redwood is a building material like no other.