Decks & Patios

With this quick and easy project you can transform any area in your garden with these attractive and easy-to-make decking squares. Use them on a concrete patio, as an attractive feature next to a...

Living in a rental property does not allow you to make permanent improvements. Building a deck is one of those things. You can, however, build portable decking, which you can pick up and move to a...

Decks that are old or need to have boards replaced may have been secured with nails. Nails can rust when they collect moisture and may even start to pop out of the wood. One way to correct a...

Adding railings to a porch or deck creates both a decorative and safe deck or porch, and addition of railings is actually required by building code in many locales. Building a railing from scratch...

An important item required for assembling a deck is the fasteners used to hold the decking down. This is even more important when using Trex decking because it requires particular screws which are...

The new railing on your deck looks great, but those post caps just won't stay on. Careless hands will knock the caps to the ground, and some strong winds will send them flying. No matter what type...

It is possible to build a deck without using power tools. Planning the size of your deck around standard length lumber means less cutting. Attaching boards to joists with nails rather than screws...

Pressure-treated wood is the best choice for building a long-lasting outdoor deck. Galvanized screws are used more often than galvanized nails in deck building because of their staying power....

Pergola is designed to allow the elements to penetrate the wood beams. Sun, wind and rain make their way easily through the slats but hurricane conditions can pull up each slat one by one and toss...

Deck screws hold deck boards down to the top of the deck's frame. These differ from regular screws in that they will be seen on the top of the deck, so they are manufactured to look more...

Building a deck will add great character and style to your home and also a place for relaxing and entertaining. It's important to install the deck boards correctly to ensure longevity and quality....

Deck screws are used on the top of deck boards, with standard screws and nails used for the frame. Many people do not realize there is a difference or that they even need a special screw for the...

Decks are wonderful outdoor living spaces. Building one around your home can make spending time with your family more enjoyable and increase your property value. When building a deck, preparation...

With the cost of in-ground pools being out of reach of the average person, above-ground pools present a more affordable option. Less accessible than their subterranean cousins, above-ground pools...

Trex decking materials feature the beauty of natural wood without the splintering and upkeep of wood. It is soft and smooth and feels good enough to walk on barefoot. Available in a large number...

Building a freestanding deck can indeed be simple, unless your back yard runs downhill. However, this will be the most difficult part of building a freestanding deck. Most freestanding decks are...

When building any outdoor structure whether it's a deck, shed or dock, selecting the best type of fasteners is important. After selecting a building plan, choosing the right fastener might be the...

If you have ever lived in an apartment on the first floor that is located next to water of any kind, you have probably had the great pleasure of waking up in the morning to duck poo all over your...

A handrail is the best way to prevent people from falling on the steps from the deck to the backyard. Minimal woodworking knowledge is needed to build one. You will only need a measuring tape and...

Building wood walkways or Decks can be a challenging experience for even a seasoned professional! The method I've used here is probably the easiest way to build a very elaborate structure that...

Arbors can add a nice touch to any garden and bring your vines to life by providing a solid fixture to climb. Arbors come in many shapes and sizes with benches, swings and shelves. Find the arbor...

If you are a homeowner looking to make backyard improvements, the pergola is a great choice. While a pergola is not a full patio or deck cover and will not keep the rain out, if it is built...

Pergolas have become a very popular backyard feature, and many homeowners are interested in adding one as a do-it-yourself project. For those with an existing deck, a pergola will enhance the...

Many home owners are considering making the change from traditional wood decking to newer composite materials. Among the appealing characteristics of the composite decking are its low maintenance...

An outdoor deck that is detached from your home can add functionality to an outdoor area that may otherwise be underutilized. Outdoor decks can be used for entertaining friends, cooking outdoors...

A ground level deck provides a custom look that looks impressive and fits nicely into the surroundings. Almost anyone with basic carpentry skills can build a deck. Plan your deck, secure the...

During the hot summer months, many people enjoy spending time outdoors grilling on their deck or having gatherings with family and friends. The intense heat of the summer can put a damper on such...

You may need to remove a deck board for any number of reasons like, warping, staining, or cracking. Fortunately it isn't to hard to remove a deck board and avoid damaging the surrounding surface.

Installing a handrail around the deck can also make the deck more attractive. The good thing about this installation is that it requires a minimal amount of woodworking ability. As with most...

A deck is a way to enjoy the outdoors. A deck on the outside of your mobile home is sure to become a favorite family spot in good weather. With a few tools, the help of a friend or two, a roof can...

How to build a moveable deck bench. Read the plan first to determine what all you will need as the things you will need list is just tools needed. Based on the size of the deck you will be...

An awning is a device that functions like a patio cover but isn't as structural. Awnings are made from simple posts with canvas or aluminum overhangs. The awnings are attached to house exteriors,...

A deck is a beautiful and practical addition to your home. There are risks in building one, however, and if you are careful these risks should not ruin the project. If you run into something that...

If you have a deck or patio close to the exterior wall of your house where you get a lot of sun, you can add a Sunsetter awning to give you the shade that you need. A Sunsetter awning can be...

Minor deck repairs include occasionally tightening deck screws. Learn how to tighten wood deck screws to secure wood deck boards - free video.

What is more inviting after a hard day at the office than a nice relaxing evening sitting on a deck you built yourself? Not that you would ever vie for the envy of your neighbors -- but it is a...

When you build a deck, it will last for years. It's important to buy the right kind of nails and screws for a deck so they will last for years, too. Cheaper isn't always the way to go, as nails...

Building a beautiful deck for your home is a fantastic project and can provide enjoyment for years to come. It is critical to build your deck on a sturdy, properly-built frame or those years of...

Are you getting the shakes each time you step out on your deck? Firming up the joists under the decking may solve your problem. But first make sure you don't have any rotted or loose beams.