Free-standing decks – a great alternative
One of the first considerations an owner-builder needs to make is what type of deck you want to build. Decks come in all shapes and sizes, and functions. Could a free-standing deck be the right one for you. What is a free-standing deck? Free-standing decks are not directly attached to a house or other structure. […]
Finishing your deck – oil or stain?
Now that you’re done constructing your deck the only thing left to do is to add the finishing touches. Both oils and stains have their own distinct advantages. In this post we’ll have a look at both finishing materials. A good deck can make a house a home… A good deck can make a house […]
Should you roof your deck?
Last time we talked about deck flooring and balustrades. With the flooring and balustrades in place your deck is ready to use. But one vital question remains – to roof or not to roof? Installing a roof isn’t just about protecting your deck from the climate. In fact, as long as you’ve properly weatherproofed your […]
Deck Flooring and balustrades
So far we’ve covered everything from planning right through to your footings and joists. Today we’ll be tackling a challenge involving two important aspects of deck building. It’s time to install your deck flooring and balustrades. Deck Flooring This deck members (the floor slats) are installed on top of the deck joist. Aside from simply […]
Putting Down your Footings and Joists
In the previous post we discussed deck site preparation. Hopefully you’re ready to move forward? Now that your deck site is ready you can begin the construction. The first thing you need to do is establish your footings. These form the support structure of the deck. Regardless of how tight your budget may be, this […]
Preparing your deck site
In our previous posts you’ve had a crash course on the basic construction processes involved in deck building. Now that you’ve got the basics down you can begin the construction of the deck. But before you put your hands on any tools you need to prepare the deck site. Dealing with wood boring Insects Is […]
It’s your deck. Choose your materials…
Now that you’re done designing your deck it’s time to move on to the next stage. You might be thinking that you’re ready for the construction stage but hold your horses there’s still a little more preparation to be done. You first have to determine the materials you want to make your deck from. These […]
Your Deck – Design and Function
In the previous article we talked about the decking checklist. Have you developed your own checklist yet? Why not share it and your thoughts and ideas by commenting below. You’ll be helping others by doing so. Now, to the next stage… Now that you know what to consider before starting your deck, let’s move […]
Your key to decking success – a pre-start checklist
In the previous post we shared our thoughts on one of the best things you can give your home, your family and your friends – a deck. We discussed the basic definition of a deck, its basic features and purpose. We talked about the benefits a deck gives – not only to the value of […]