Contents
The Complete Guide to Decks
Introduction
Gallery of Inspiring Decks
Deck Planning & Design
Evaluating Your Site
Deck Building Codes
Determining Lumber Size
Understanding Loads
Developing Your Deck Plan
Working with Building Inspectors
Deck Materials & Tools
Footings & Structural Lumber
Wood Decking
Non-wood Decking
Fasteners & Hardware
Metal Connecting Hardware
Screws & Nails
Flashing
Footings
Specialty Tools
HOW TO BUILD A DECK
Structural Support
Installing a Ledger
Locating Post Footings
Digging & Pouring Footings
Installing Posts
Installing Beams
Hanging Joists
Framing Low-profile Decks
Framing Multi-level Decks
Framing Decks on Steep Slopes
Working with Angles
Creating Curves
Framing for Insets
Decking
Decking Patterns
Laying Decking
Stairs
Building Stairs
Building Stairs with Landings
Deck Railings
Deck Railing Basics
Curved Railings
Composite Railing Systems
Glass-panel Railings
Steel Cable Railings
Copper Tube Railings
Deck Accessories
Deck Planters
Privacy Screen
Deck Benches
Deck Skirting
Finishing & Maintaining Your Deck
Cleaning, Sealing & Coloring a Wood Deck
Finishing a New Wood Deck
Maintaining a Deck
Repairing a Deck
Cleaning Vinyl & Composite Decking
CUSTOM DECK PROJECTS
A Deck for Entertaining
A Deck for Livability
A Deck with Power
Under-deck Enclosure
Runoff Gutters
Spa Tub Deck
Boardwalk Deck on a Slab
Floating Octagon Island Deck
Ground Level Walkout Deck
Second-story Walkout Deck
Inside Corner Deck
Wraparound Deck
Angled Deck
Square Platform Deck
Multi-level Deck
Casual Curve Deck
Deckbuilding Glossary
Reference Charts
Acknowledgments/Resources
Photo Credits
Index