Expanding your living space by adding a deck is a great American tradition. Whether you plan to do it yourself or hire a pro, the key to success is factoring in all the critical design issues, picking the right material for your budget, climate, and lifestyle, and building a structure that will stand the test of time.
What Will You Do On Your Deck?
Let your favorite outdoor activities dictate its size, shape, and features.
Eat Family Meals
Make sure your table will fit comfortably. A good rule of thumb is to add 4 feet all the way around the table so that people can walk behind those who are seated.
Host Barbecues and Cocktail Parties
Kick Back and Relax
Test-Drive Your Layout
If you want easy-care decking, choose manufactured boards; if looks trump all, opt for wood. Use our cheat sheet to help pick what"s right for you.
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pros: Easy to work with. Takes stains and waterproofing easily.
Cons: Will corrode unprotected metal fasteners and connectors. Boards can warp and crack. Requires frequent cleaning, resealing, and restaining.
Price: $
Know Your Materials: Composite
Pros: Comes in a range of colors and textures. Long-lasting if cared for properly. Won"t splinter, crack, or rot.
Cons: Some products look less wood-like than others. Scuffs and scratches easily. Spills can leave stains.
Price: $$
Know Your Materials: PVC
Pros: Superior resistance to moisture. Doesn"t swell or shrink. Not prone to rot or termites. Easy to clean.
Cons: Some products look less wood-like than others. Boards can squeak when walked on.
Price: $$
Pros: Offers natural insect resistance. Weathers to a handsome shade of gray. Easy to work with.
Cons: Not available everywhere. Requires frequent maintenance and waterproofing.
Price: $$–$$$, depending on location.
Pros: Long-lasting if cared for properly. Offers natural resistance to rot and insects.
Cons: Quickly dulls cutting blades. Installation is labor-intensive.
Price: $$$
Choose a Pattern: Basketweave
Choose a Pattern: Accent Boards
What"s New: Jig and Screw Kit
What"s New: Deck Stain
What"s New: Composite Boards
Design for a Sunny Spot
The right details give each deck its individuality. Let the style of your house and the furniture you choose influence the look of the fixtures you add and the way the woodwork is trimmed.
Riser Light
Codes already mandate stairway lighting; this option sets the mood and keeps the climb safe.
Highpoint; about $25; deckdepot.com
Finishing Touches: Post-Base Trim
Finishing Touches: Post Cap
Finishing Touches: Baluster Connector
Finishing Touches: Lattice Skirt
If this weight-bearing board that connects the deck to your house isn"t installed properly, your deck could collapse. It must be bolted, not nailed, to the house"s structure, and fully flashed to keep the wood from rotting. Check out How to Build a Simple Deck to see Tom Silva demonstrate how to install and protect the ledger.
Original article and pictures take http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20489054_20949324,00.html site
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