Great Decks & Porches

For pure four-season pleasure that adds to the value of your home and enlarges your living space, the right deck or porc... (more)

For pure four-season pleasure that adds to the value of your home and enlarges your living space, the right deck or porch is your perfect addition. Here's the place to start, whatever your style: small and simple or sprawling wrap-around, single level or multi-story. The section on the basics of deck and porch design will help you decide what style works best with the architecture of your home. Then study the anatomy of decks and porches, so you can take best advantage of your site, and solve problems such as slopes and drainage. As you put your plan on paper, the guide to blueprints and understanding codes and permits will prove essential. Then come the tips on tools and materials and the clear instructions on basic building techniques for posts, ledgers, and joists, as well as deck accessories including railings, seating, steps, overheads, roofing, lighting, furnishings, and surface finishes. (less)