Laying Out Deck Site

Whether you start the layout of your deck with a ledger or are expanding an old deck from an existing framing member, the next step is laying out the site for footings and post locations. Here’s how to get things right. ”We are extremely pleased with the railings you installed. The design goes perfectly with [...]

Installing The Ballusters

Purchase ready-cut balusters or make your own from 2x2s. You may want to angle-cut one or both ends on the outside faces. Determine where you will drive the fasteners. Set a group of balusters side by side. Use a framing square to mark fastener positions, and drill pilot holes. ”From the very first telephone conversation [...]

Installing surface mounted infill

Of all the aspects of fence construction, installing the infill is probably the most enjoyable because you can begin to see the results of your planning and layout. It’s at this step that the structure you’ve been toiling over begins to look like a fence. The tasks associated with hanging the infill are repetitive—you’ll fall [...]

Installing Decking

Because decking provides the surface appearance of your deck, you may want to invest a little more for high quality lumber such as cedar or redwood. Even if you choose to use pressure-treated lumber for your decking, measure and install it with care. ”I’m glad I I selected this company, an excellent quality of work, [...]

Installing Deck Beams and joists

Once the ledger and posts are in place, install the heam(s) that support(s) the joists and decking. Beams run parallel to the ledger and fasten to the posts. The number of beams increases as the span away from the house increases. ”Initially called Eugene for estimate. Eugene explained to me in details the types of [...]

Designing gates

A gate does more than just open or close a gap in a fence. It can also serve as a focal point, punctuate an entry, or highlight a special area. First impressions Gates create an image and project an impression about what lies beyond. A tall locked gate does not invite entrance. Low, painted pickets, [...]

Horizontal rail fence

Horizontal rail fences come in a variety of styles, but all of them are relatively simple to build. Cut post tops to points or bevels to add style. Close rail spacing increases privacy and alternate rail widths add interest. Capped post-and-rail fences, an outgrowth of earlier styles, go well in contemporary settings and the cap [...]

Hillside Deck Railing

This deck features an extremely versatile and widely used construction system. ”Dave and I were having a backyard wedding and realized that our trecherous stairs needed a railing. The guys at Art Metal promised to have it made and installed in time and they delivered. It’s beautiful (and I normally don’t like wrought iron) and [...]

Hardware and latches for Gates

Gate hardware is as much a design element as any other part of the fence or gate structure. Hinges and latches give the gate design a detail or accent that embellishes the appearance of the entire structure. But with gate hardware even the most ornamental parts have a hefty job to do. When you’re shopping [...]

Ground Level Deck Railings

Despite its simplicity, this L-shaped deck makes an ideal transition area between the house and lawn. It provides a usable space away from the main traffic corridor, where a table or a pair of lounge chairs invite casual relaxing. ”The price was very reasonable; the timing was exactly as promised; the work quality is perfect. [...]