Decks & Patios

A screened patio in the backyard provides protection from bugs that sting and bite. Small children can safely play outdoors in a screened-in patio without the fear of stray animals or snakes. A...

Enjoying the warm summer air is even more wonderful when sitting on a porch at dusk. The drawbacks can be the insects that buzz around while you are trying to enjoy your evening. Consider putting...

Cedar is widely considered to be one of the most desirable woods for outdoor deck or fence construction. Both its beauty and natural resistance to rot and decay make cedar an optimal choice for...

When planning and building a deck, fence or other light-duty structure, nothing is more important than the first stabilizing posts. When wooden posts are rushed, inadequately installed, unbalanced...

Making your own pergola for your patio or garden is much easier than you may think. With the right plan and preparation, you can build it quickly and make it look masterful. Make sure you choose a...

A patio allows you to enjoy the outdoors while staying close to your house on a nice concrete footing. However, you will still be exposed to the elements. If you want to protect yourself while...

If you are looking for an open structure which can define a space in your backyard, a pergola might be for you. This structure is made out of wood and is a great overhang for a small seating...

A patio arbor can be one of the most rewarding projects that you might add to your home. Sometimes wrapped in beautiful wisteria, roses, or other vines, the patio arbor can be a place to hide away...

You have a garden and landscaping to be proud of, and now you need a spectacular way to share it with friends and family. A wooden gazebo is not only a nice place to relax with loved ones, but...

If you are going to build a deck that is over 5 feet off the ground, hangs over a steep slope, or both, then using the batterboard method to mark the footing locations will probably be difficult...

Looking for detailed instructions on how to install a posts for a deck? Here's how with pictures.

Using wooden pallets is an inexpensive and easy way to create an attractive picket fence for your yard. This is also a great great recycled-items project.

The post spacing is decided by observing the deck layout. Factors to consider include the outer corners of the deck (the angle of the corners determines how the railing is aligned), the deck...

Learn how to cut deck posts when rebuilding deck rails in this free video.

Whether you’re planning a dance party or a simple barbeque, you should want rails on any deck over 2 feet tall. While it might be funny to see Aunt Betsy tango off the side and roll into the...

Wrought iron porch posts used to add old-world charm and elegance to your home. These days, however, that look can be quite outdated and undesirable. Additionally, exposure to the elements usually...

Porch posts serve cosmetic and practical purposes on your property. A classical wooden post with an ornate design can make your porch look like a blast from the past. These same posts provide...

When you're getting ready to design and build a deck, you must start with the footers. These concrete mount points support the deck's main posts. There are several different styles of deck...

Patio screen posts can decorate your patio screen and line its inside or outside edges. Patio screen posts come in any of a number of styles. It's really up to you. Installing your patio screen...

Installing posts for your patio overhead isn't a very difficult process. The easiest posts to install are single pieces of lumber, such as 4-by-6 boards or 8-by-8 boards. Which size you choose...

The posts for your deck aren't particularly weight bearing, but they do support all the other parts of your deck. Carefully measure for your deck posts, so you can accurately plan how much and...

Deck building is not a small task and should be researched thoroughly before the project is started. Not only is the creation of the deck important, but so is the look of the finished product....

Attaching lattice panels to your patio can make for a nice screen against the elements, bugs, and other people. You can attach patio screen lattice panels yourself, as it's a fairly easy...

After the footing has been set in place you can add the support posts for the deck frame.

Railing is mandatory on all decks over 2 feet high and recommended for all decks as a safety feature. After the deck boards and steps are installed you can finish your deck with the railing.