Why Are We Different than our Competitors?

We are passionate about what we do and are always excited to show customers why. We encourage you to read more because a lot of the following issues may not seem interesting, but they are IMPORTANT if you are considering a project of your own.

*Standard IRC code: is quite lenient on decks. However, with so many deck failures in America it is becoming a major concern. Integrity Building and Design conforms to the Fairfax Virginia building code. We do this because they are the leaders in code related issues. We want our decks to be code-compliant as long as they are being used.

*When it comes to decks: There are some simple practices that cost little or no extra, and will conform to the new and upcoming code. It is important for the customer to know these simple code issues because they really do make for a safer deck.

Railing: The railing code requires that the railing withstand 500 pounds of force in all directions at the top of the guardrail. MOST deck railings today do not conform to this code. Many builders notch their railing posts to sit on the deck, however, this practice makes for a weaker railing and is not code-compliant. Railing posts must be bolted on to the deck. The band or rim-joist, must be attached to the joists with screws or bracket of some sort to withstand pullout. There are other code issues, but these are a few that are typically ignored by local builders.

Ledger attachment: The Ledger attached to the house can typically support up to half of the weight of the deck. This weight is often attached by fasteners alone, relying on the fasteners over time to hold up the deck. With “code compliant” deck failures increasing in America, Washington State University performed a study on ledger board attachment. Their study has greatly influenced the IRC. The results include information about the correct lag screw and lag bolt spacing, as well as attachment of the house band joist. Another study by Virginia Tech reveals many of the same issues.

We pay attention to the details. We pride ourselves in building projects that stand out in every way. Sometimes this means taking longer on particular projects to cut around boulders, or to install curved trim to create a particularly dramatic effect. This attention to detail is evident in our entire process, from the initial consultation to the design and completion of your project. You can trust that we will do our best every time.

Resource Links:

- Deck Failure News.
- Washington State University study on deck safety.
- Latching On” article about ledger attachment.
- Virginia Tech study.

We build with Stainless Steel Fasteners. Stainless Steel is a must when working outdoors. In 2003 there was a production ban on the common CCA treated wood, and new treatments such as CA and ACQ were introduced to the market. The copper content in these treatments is about 6 times greater than in theprevious CCA, and the corrosion of the fasteners is also much greater. The only safe resolution is to build with stainless steel. However, because the change is relatively new, there is limited regulation. Just walk in your local hardware store and you will see plenty of “ACQ approved” fasteners that are not stainless, however there is no organization that awards such an approval. Reading the fine print on Simpson Strongtie’s website, they actually recommend stainless steel fasteners. Although they are more expensive, when compared to the rest of a project, using stainless steel is an extremely minor expense.

We do use the best materials. Whether it’s hardwood, pine or other softwoods, composite, plastic, concrete, outdoor kitchen materials, or any other materials, we really do offer you the best. We not only do all of the research for you, we have tested and worked with most of the materials on the market. We know what’s out there and can offer educated and informed advice.