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How-To Articles

Decks offers a variety of how-to articles to help you complete your next project. Jump right in with the DIY guide, or explore other topics below.

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DIY Guide

How to Build a Wood or Composite Deck

From planning and designing your deck, to choosing materials and finding a builder, we've got you covered! Learn how to build a deck step-by-step with these tutorials.

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Featured Deck Design Articles

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Diverse Deck Styles Across America
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 How to Design a Deck The Best Deck Styles for Every Part of the Country Deck taste and styles in the US differ across the country. Check out these popular looks from every region.
Picture6 Deck in Winter frozen-snowy-deck
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 How to Design a Deck 5 Ways to Use Your Deck In The Winter Hoping to get use out of your deck all year long? Discover these helpful deck ideas to keep your deck warm and cozy in cold winter weather at Decks.com.
Hanging Deck Lights
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 How to Design a Deck Hanging String Lights on a Deck Hanging string lights on a deck is a great way to enjoy summer nights. Learn how easy it is to hang any type of string lights on a deck with Decks.com.
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Featured Deck Building Articles

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Composite Decking Installation Guide
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 Decking Installation How to Install Composite Decking for the Perfect, Long-Lasting Outdoor Space Learn about how to install composite decking. Topics include expansion and contraction issues and hidden fastener systems.
floor patterns
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 Decking Installation Deck Patterns, Layouts & Design Ideas Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
Tile Deck
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 Decking Installation Can I Install Tiles on Composite or Wood Decks? Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
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Featured Deck Care Articles

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Anotheramazingdeck
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 Repairs How To Fix Loose Deck Railing and Prevent Wobbly Banisters for Years Learn how to fix a loose outdoor railing on your deck to avoid future damage.
Deck Railing Codes
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 Repairs Deck Inspection: Checklist for Framing, Footings and More Concerned that your deck no longer meets safety regulations? Want to know how to spot signs of trouble for your deck? Review our checklist for inspecting your deck at Decks.com.
Painting
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 Deck Finishing Can You Paint or Stain Composite Decking? Most composites don’t require painting or staining. However, if you are considering staining or painting your deck, you can learn how to do so and what you’ll need at Decks.com.
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Explore Articles by Topic

Footings

Footings

Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing

Framing

Learn structural framing methods

Decking

Decking

Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs

Stairs

An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings

Railings

How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features

Features

An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design

Design

The basics of deck design

Planning

Planning

Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches and Patios

Porches & Patios

Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger

Ledger

Proper attachment techniques

Care

Care

Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials

Materials

An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

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