Deck Privacy Enclosure
Decks need definition. Without it—both above and at the edges—your deck can leave you feeling exposed and uncomfortable. If your site lacks natural attributes that enhance your privacy and sense of enclosure, you can create these qualities with your plans. Consider privacy first. Is your deck effectively screened from the street and from the neighbors’ […]
Deck Overheads Structures
Whether you call it an arbor, a pergola, a lanai, or a canopy, an overhead will enhance your deck with a minimum of materials and work. Function First Let the use of your deck determine whether it needs an overhead. The sky might be considered the ultimate ceiling for all of the outdoors, but many […]
Lighting
Lighting extends the use of your deck late into the evening and makes it safer and more secure at night, even when you’re not using it. Adding lights to a deck takes planning and care, but it’s not difficult. Choose the lighting system you prefer, review the installation guidelines, and prepare to enjoy your outdoor […]
Deck Grading Drainge
Every deck, no matter how beautiful, needs some kind of furnishings to look complete. Furnishings give outdoor living space its style and make it feel homey and inviting. They have a remarkable influence on how you feel about the space, as well as how often you use it. Furnishings and lifestyle Furnishings should reflect the […]
Deck Firelight
No artificial light source matches the comforting glow of a controlled fire. Fire brings instant coziness and extends your deck’s potential for use. Firelight is most appealing at night, encouraging after-hours use of your outdoor room. Fires also take the chill out of spring and fall evenings. Most homeowners don’t think about including a fireplace […]
Deck Construction Basics
You’ve decided on your deck design. You’ve selected the materials. You have all the permits and plans in hand. You know what you need to do, and why. If your site is graded for drainage, your supplies have been delivered, and you have your brother-in-law lined up to help, it’s time to build. Construction is […]
Deck Amenities
Amenities bring many of the comforts of the indoors into the beauty and spaciousness of the outdoors. Which ones you choose depend on how you want to use the space. Outdoor cooking areas get the heat out of the kitchen and allow the cook to enjoy more time with the guests. An outdoor kitchen with […]
Curved Fence Line
Curved fences increase the attractiveness of a fence line and can solve some tricky layout problems. They can skirt trees, large rocks, and other obstructions. Round corners can help a fenced area seem less cramped. Curved fences have some structural limitations, however. They’re difficult to construct between post spans shorter than 4 feet or longer […]
Building Curved Fence Sections
Building a curved fence section requires a careful layout. Once you have scribed the arc on the ground, use the directions illustrated to locate and set the posts and install the rails—either curved or segmented. Hang the infill as you would on a straight rail ”Eugene dealt with this small project in a very […]
Building Edge Rail Fence Frame
Almost all fence designs rely on one of two rail styles—edge rails or flat rails. Edge rails are installed with the widest of their faces perpendicular to the ground. That means they resist sagging more effectively than flat rails. This positioning also allows you more choices when it comes to mounting the infill although most […]