Proper preparation of the subsoil, base, and bedding layers will keep a hardscape looking great for years
Consider span, spacing, and depth to build beyond code for a small upcharge
Builder Ben Roberson advises doubling up the joists beneath butt joints between composite deck boards
A template helps to fit the bottom tread neatly around round newel posts
A New Jersey deck builder describes the advantages of steel framing
Augering footing holes through a hole in a piece of OSB controls the dirt
Different deck footings
Advice on forming, estimating, placing, and finishing concrete
Using a ledger one size larger than the joists allows for effective water management
-
Readers write about problems caused by nonprofessionals building decks, strict codes, and negative marketing