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. Fixing bow and warp If some decking boards have slight bows (and they will), […]
installing deck beams 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. Mounting Mount the beams on the sides of the posts or on top, using […]
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. Construction notes This design is appropriate for flat sites as well as slopes. Because the posts are easily cut, the piers don’t have to be absolutely level. The deck featured here is freestanding— that is, it doesn’t rely on another structure for support, although […]
hardware latches 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. By building the deck in a shallow excavation and edging it with a masonry or concrete […]
footings fences overheads
Much of the privacy, shade, and ambience of a landscape comes from arbors, fences, gazebos, and other structures that use vertical posts. If the structure it to last, the posts need to be firmly anchored in the ground. You have two techniques at your disposal: You can bury part of the post in the ground […]
finalizing deck costs
Once your design has been approved by everyone who needs to review it, you’re ready to start gathering bids. Get bids from at least two or three major suppliers, and ask friends and relatives for recommendations. You can divide your costs into several parts: Here are a few suggestions: Your time: How much do you […]