How To Install Vinyl Railing.

Our Vinyl Railing Guide For Staunton & Harrisonburg DIYers.

Installing vinyl railing is something many Staunton and Harrisonburg handy homeowners can do themselves. The most important recommendation that we can make is to read the instructions thoroughly before getting started. Use this guide to determine if your skills are ready for a project of this scope. Here’s a simple guide to installing vinyl railing at home:

  1. Order The Right Material: Vinyl railing can be installed in wood or concrete and you need to order the right version for it to work. Determine your material and place your order with our professional representatives.
  2. Installing The Supports: Once you’ve received your order, it’s time to get started with the installation. Attach supports between your railing and home using the mounting brackets provided. You want to place them slightly below the top rail and slightly above the bottom rail. This is the vertical support for your railing.
  3. Installing The Posts: Drill a hole through the wood or concrete floor and set the support base into the flooring. Set the steel post into that baseplate and then fully attach the base with four more holes drilled into the floor. Set the decorative sleeve over the mounting brackets. Install the next post for this section to connect the balusters.
  4. Installing The Balusters: Insert all the balusters between these two posts and secure them using the top railing. Then, simply press down on the top railing over the first post and secure it to the second post.
  5. Finish Up: Continue with the installation, remembering to mount those vertical supports to the other side of the vinyl railing.

Not Up To The Task? We’ve Got You Covered.

At Dutch Way, we work with DIYers, contractors and homeowners to provide quality vinyl railing in the Staunton and Harrisonburg communities. Sometimes a job is too big to handle alone, which is why we offer turnkey installation for all the products we sell. Simply contact us or visit our showroom to get started adding vinyl railing to your home or business.

Visit Dutch Way!

Our Tips For Protecting Your Augusta County Deck.

Augusta County Deck Professionals Share Tips Of The Trade.

To help your Augusta County deck last longer, you need to protect it from the elements, impact and wear-and-tear. Here are our top recommendations based on the type of material used.

Composite Deck Tips:

We love Wolf’s Serenity line of decking that comes with a 50-year stain and fade warranty. Even with that protection, here’s some guidance to keep it looking good for years.

  • Regular Cleaning of the Deck Boards: You need to hose down or mop your deck fairly regularly – especially if you eat on the deck. Neglected bits of food can get stuck to the decking and mold and mildew. This can cause discoloration when you do eventually clean it off.
  • Avoid Sharp Chisels and Shovels: It’s summer so nobody’s thinking about snow, but here’s some critical information to keep in mind – do not use a sharp shovel or chisel to remove snow and ice. Sharp blades can gouge and etch the composite material, affecting its integrity and durability.
  • Monitor Grills & Firepits: High heat can have a negative impact on decking. Because composite decking includes PVC, it’s susceptible to heat and flame. Pay attention when grilling and move fire pits off your deck.

Wood Deck Tips:

One reason we like Wolf decking so much is that it requires less maintenance than its wood equivalent. That being said, wood is still a popular choice for many homeowners.

  • Regular Cleaning of the Boards: Hose down or use a pressure washer to clean your wood each year. This will help remove mildew and any buildup that may have accumulated. Follow your pressure washer instructions to ensure you don’t damage the wood when cleaning.
  • Stain or Seal Your Wood: This should typically happen every couple of years and helps protect your deck from the weather. It also helps to improve its appearance. You can do this yourself, but it is time-consuming so plan accordingly.
  • Move Furniture and Rugs Regularly: Shifting furniture and taking up rugs will help minimize sun damage and water retention. Over time, these small efforts will keep your Augusta County deck looking good for years.

Visit Dutch Way Location To Learn More About Our Decks!

A Harrisonburg Deck Company Answers Your Questions.

Here Are Some Commonly Asked Questions From Your Harrisonburg Deck Company.

We’re a Harrisonburg deck company with decades of experience in the Shenandoah Valley. After working in the industry for so long, we’ve heard all types of questions. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions and their answers:

  1. Do I Need A Permit To Build A Deck? Yes. The City of Harrisonburg requires a permit for any structure that improves or upgrades your property, even if you are just replacing your deck. Your contractor should be able to submit the application, or you can do it yourself online!
  2. Does My Contractor Have To Be Licensed? Yes, any contractor doing work in Harrisonburg, VA, needs a contractor license – even if he’s just replacing a deck. 
  3. Where Can I Place My Grill On My New Deck? Grills can get extremely hot, which is why it’s important to ensure there is some distance between your grill and railings and other houses. We also recommend you place a mat underneath your grill to protect the wood or composite material from staining. 
  4. Does Composite Decking Fade? Some composite decking materials can fade, but others do not. We partner with Wolf for composite decking that comes with a 25-year warranty against staining and fading. 
  5. How Big Should I Build My Deck? Most deck companies would agree that a deck shouldn’t be more than 50% larger than your main floor. Any bigger and it will look out of place.
  6. Which Material Is Best? That question depends on your budget and aesthetic needs. Pressure-treated lumber that is properly maintained can last up to 30 years, while a composite deck can last up to 60 years with minimal maintenance.

Visit Our Showroom To See Your Options In Person!

We invite you to visit our showroom in Mt. Crawford, VA, to see, touch and feel the options available. After decades of business in the Valley, you can count on us as your experienced Harrisonburg decking company.

Schedule An Appointment.

A Pergola Is A Charming Addition To Any Home.

A Pergola Is A Charming Addition To Any Home.

The word pergola comes from Latin and refers to a projecting eave. Traditionally installed as an extension of the home’s existing structure, most pergolas installed today are separate structures. Perfect for patios, gardens, and landscapes, a pergola creates a historical and welcoming addition to any outdoor area. When perfectly designed and installed, a pergola can minimize exposure to the sun and create a central space for dining and entertainment. Pergolas are also a great place for vines to cascade and add greenery up high for added dimension and color.

What Do I Need To Know About Building A Pergola?

Experienced carpenters and super handy homeowners can build pergolas designed to last. Now you can even purchase kits to simplify the process. Here is a list of what you need to know prior to starting your project:

  • Material: Pergolas can be constructed out of wood, vinyl, aluminum, and composite materials. We like vinyl for its ease of installation, classic look, and minimal maintenance.
  • Budget: Like any project, evaluate your budget and share it with your contractor. They will help guide you to the best option for your budget.
  • Size: Be sure to check with your homeowners’ associations to determine if they have height restrictions on exterior builds. Measure your space and remember support posts will take up some of that space.

Visit Our Showroom To Get Inspired.

Dutch Way is the Shenandoah Valley’s leading source for fencing and pergola materials. Our vinyl options create beautiful pergolas that are easy to maintain and last for years. You won’t need to stain or paint your pergola when you choose vinyl and the ease of cleaning can’t be beat! Visit our showroom or let us measure your space for a custom designed pergola built by our professionals!

Are You Ready For A New Pergola?

Showcase Your Shenandoah Valley Home with Rustic Cable Railing.

Showcase Your Shenandoah Valley Home with Rustic Cable Railing.

Rustic cable railing adds a beautiful, earthy element to homes in Virginia. When you’re looking for an element to distinguish your home, vertical cable railing might be just the feature to set your home apart from and above the rest. When you’re ready to consider options for your home, check out the pros and cons of cable railing:

The Pros:

  • The View: Vertical cables are so thin that they virtually disappear. Minimalist cable creates an unobtrusive view and lets you take advantage of the Shenandoah Valley’s beautiful scenery.
  • Installation Options: Vertical cable railing can be installed with solid wood, vinyl, or aluminum posts. This gives you control over the cost of your final project and gets you the look you want.
  • Maintenance Is Minimal: Since most cables are made of stainless steel, they require very little maintenance and will last for years!

The Cons:

  • Modern Design: Stainless steel cable railing tends to take on a more contemporary look compared to most other options. That being said, it can look fantastic in rustic settings with bronze posts. Don’t be scared!
  • Adjustments: You will most likely have to adjust the tension of your cable railing over time. This is fairly easy but requires some maintenance.

Visit The Dutch Way Showroom To Learn More!

Our showroom is the perfect place to check out the materials and details you’ll want to consider before you make your decision. Experienced consultants guide you through your choices and point out the advantages and disadvantages of each product. Touch and feel each material and enjoy expert advice all while getting inspired for your next project. Hire us to install or we can simply be your distributor of choice. Contact a member of our team to learn more.

Are You Ready For Rustic Cable Railing?

Verticable, ,

An Aluminum railing you can see through. Tired of railing blocking your beautiful view. CHECK OUT VERTICABLE

Wolf PVC Deck New Colors

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We are excited about new color options in Plank and T&G decking with Wolf. Now offering a 25 year fade warranty, as well as a Limited Lifetime on the product. We are also Certified Wolf Pros which gives you a 5 year labor warranty.