RONA debunks common myths, shares money-saving tips
Whether you plan to build your own backyard deck this year or hire a professional, leading home improvement retailer RONA shares top things you should know before embarking on a project.
“The first step is to determine the dimensions and location you’d like for your deck, as well as how it will be configured,” said Amir Mohammad Salimi, Category Manager, Deck & Fence of RONA. “You can then plan accordingly.”
Selecting building material comes next. Canadians’ most popular choice for deck boards is pressure-treated wood, typically the most affordable option, Salimi explained. Yet a study conducted by RONA among customers shows that a large percentage of people have misconceptions about it.
Almost half (47%) of consumers queried, for example, think pressure-treated wood needs to be left alone for at least one year before it can be stained, yet in reality, it can be stained as early as 60 days after installation. As well, a third of respondents falsely think that the stain in pressure-treated wood is highly toxic, whereas it is actually completely safe, said Salimi.
“It’s important to get educated about the material being used for your deck so that you can treat and care for it properly,” he explained, pointing to only 24% of survey respondents who knew that when pressure-treated wood starts graying out, it means it’s dirty and needs to be cleaned.
“Another misconception is that building a deck requires excessive budget, yet there are many ways to save while creating a high quality, beautiful deck – all it takes it some research and planning,” said Salimi.
If you’re in the market for a new or upgraded deck, RONA suggests these star items to make the job easier and economical while delivering maximum wow factor.
Deck Boards
West Fraser 5/4-In x 6-In x 8-Ft #2 Premium Pressure Treated Wood
This pressure treated lumber protects against decay and insects. Not only is it beautiful in appearance, but it is also inexpensive, easy to work with and doesn’t require any specialized tools. Its unique ability to fend off decay makes it ideal in any high moisture environment. Available at RONA stores or online.
TimberTech Coconut Husk 12-ft Grooved Deck Board
Composite deck boards are a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to pressure-treated wood. The TimberTech line – made from up to 80% recycled materials – has the look of authentic wood with its subtle varied hues and straight grain pattern, yet enables homeowners to avoid the costly and time-consuming maintenance that comes with it. Resistant to fading, staining, mold and mildew, each board is capped with 100% synthetic material so moisture can’t penetrate and cause damage. The easy-to-clean, durable surface is scratch and dent resistant, standing the test of time with no need to ever sand, seal or stain. $52.92 each at RONA stores or online.
Railings
TimberTech Impression Rail Express 6-ft x 36-in Panel Kit
This aluminum railing with a powder-coated finish evokes the subtle grace and character of classic cast-iron fences at a fraction of the cost. Pre-assembled, it is sleek, strong, minimalist, and quick and easy to install, with no painting or staining required. The panel kit includes a pre-assembled baluster panel (15 balusters), bottom rail cover, foot block, brackets and hardware (top rail options sold separately). Durable and resistant to moisture, fading, staining and scratches, the railing will not rot, peel, blister or deteriorate. Twenty-five-year limited warranty. $149 at RONA stores.
TimberTech Impression Rail Express 6-ft Classic Top
Crown your TimberTech railing with the top of your choice, available in classic (shown) or modern shapes in white, black or dark bronze. Durable and strong, this aluminum top rail – which mimics cast-iron – features hidden fasteners for a sleek, minimalist look. Available in 6-ft or 8-ft lengths to complement railing sections, the top rail is resistant to moisture, fading, staining and scratches, and will not rot, peel, blister or deteriorate. Twenty-five-year limited warranty. $54.99 each at RONA stores
TimberTech Impression Rail Express 3-in x 3-in x 38 1/4-in Post Kit
This kit includes an aluminum post, cap and skirt that evokes the charm of classic cast-iron and connects seamlessly with TimberTech Impression Rail Express panel or stair kits. The pre-assembled products come with patented, rattle-free, weld-free baluster connections for fast and easy installation. Express your style with a variety of infill and low-maintenance, powder-coated finishes that don’t require painting or staining, and will not rot, peel, blister or deteriorate. $69.99 each at RONA stores.
Gate Frame
HOFT Adjustable Aluminum Gate Frame Kit 2-in W x 71-in H
A stylish fence and gate go a long way in elevating the look and feel of a deck. This gate frame, by leading privacy screen manufacturer HOFT, is easy to assemble with its simple slide and screw installation. Adjustable in width, it can be installed to HOFT posts, to any specific width (maximum 4-ft wide). Designed for horizontal deck boards, it is made entirely of aluminum, so it won’t rust. Boards, hinges and lock sold separately. $149 each at RONA stores or online.
Stain and Sealant
SICO Olympic Maximum Premium Stain + Sealant
If you opt for a wood deck – whether pressure-treated or traditional – a good quality stain and sealant is highly recommended to ensure best results and a long-lasting job that will save you money in the long run. SICO’s Olympic Maximum Premium Stain + Sealant is designed to do just that, while making the application process as simple and convenient as possible. With advanced waterproofing protection, UV protection and a mildew-resistant coating, you can clean and stain on the same day, even on damp wood after rain, at temperatures as low as 2°C and up to 48°C. Available at RONA stores or online.
Tools
DeWalt 20-volt Max Cordless 2-Tool Combo Kit
This highly compact, lightweight DeWalt drill and driver combo kit is ideal for deck building and working in tight spaces and narrow corners. Both tools have a brushless motor. The 1/4-inch drill/driver measures 7 33/65 inches from front to back, while the 1/4-inch hex chuck impact driver (which accepts 1-inch bit tips) measures 5 13/32-inches front to back. The kit includes one DCD777 20V MAX compact brushless drill/driver, one DCF787 20V MAX compact brushless 1/4-in impact driver, two 20V MAX Li-ion battery packs, one charger and one kit bag. The ergonomic comfort grip handle provides ideal balance and tool control, while the LED light with 20-second trigger release delay provides increased visibility in dark or confined spaces. $199 at RONA stores or online.
DeWalt Compound Miter Saw
Excellent for deck and fence material cutting with a compact, lightweight design that allows for easy transport and storage, the Dewalt 12-in double-bevel sliding compound miter saw has a 15-amp motor and integrated XPS crosscut positioning system for adjustment-free accurate cut line indication. Tall sliding fences support 7-1/2-in of nested crown and 6-3/4-in of base moulding vertically. Exclusive back fence design cuts up to 2-in x 16-in dimensional lumber at 90 degrees. Increased miter capacity of 60 degrees right and 50 degrees left features durable stainless steel detent plate with cam lock for repeatable accuracy with easy adjustments. Three-year limited warranty. $829 (reduced to $649 until May 1) at RONA stores or online.
About RONA inc.
RONA inc. is one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers and is headquartered in Boucherville, Québec. The RONA inc. network operates or services some 425 corporate and affiliated dealer stores under the RONA+, RONA, Réno-Dépôt, and Dick’s Lumber banners. With a long and rich history, RONA inc. has supported Canadians in their home improvement and construction projects since 1939. To achieve this, the company relies on a team of 22,000 employees, to whom it strives to provide an inclusive workplace where everyone is invited to contribute. RONA inc. is one of the Montréal region’s Top Employers since 2021. As a result of its ongoing efforts in sustainable development, the company is recognized as one of Canada’s Greenest Employers. To learn more about the company, visit the website www.ronainc.ca.