Learning Center for Building Decks
This is where you'll find the treasure chest of resources and information about building decks from the ground up.
I’ve started to organize all of my articles on building decks and design tricks into one single location.
You can easily pick and choose an article based on general headings and then find more specific information below it.
Make Your Deck Building Experience Positive
Some of the lesser known topics are discussed here that you won't find on the left hand navigation bar.
So if there is a topic on building decks that I’ve missed or you would like me to discuss in greater detail, don’t be shy – drop me a line.
Whether it's how to install railings, build stairs, install vinyl deck flooring, or building benches you should find something on a topic of interest.
Visitors often ask me questions about building decks and once I have responded I usually write an article on the topic. So start learning the tricks of the trade for building decks.
Article Library
Designing Your Deck
- Conceiving Your Idea
- Principles of Good Designs
- Locating the Best Site
- Deck Lighting Ideas
- Deck Post Lighting Options
- Pergolas to enhance Decks
- Deck, Pergola and Gazebo Ideas
- Gazebos
The Construction
- Getting Prepared to Build
- Build Yourself or a Contractor?
- How To Hire a Builder
- Building Permits
- Cost of Building a Deck
- 8 Steps to Kid-Safe a Deck
Materials For Building Decks
- Composite Materials Available
- Building With ACQ Pressure Treated Lumber
- Easy Waterproofing of Ledger Board
- Eco-Friendly Patio Reno Tips
- Exotic Hardwood Decking
Foundation and Footings
Joists
Posts
Railings
- Railings Make a Statement
- Things to Consider When Desiging Railings
- Top And Bottom Rail Choices
- Railing Post Options
- Attach Posts Outside The Joist
- Attach Posts Inside Joists
- New Post Attachment Methods
- Gasket Kits for Posts
Planters
Maintenance and Cleaning
Vinyl Decks
Making a Plan
Tools Required
- Tools For Digging
- Measure Twice, Cut Once
- Saws and Sanders
- Drills and Other Cool Stuff
- Basic Tools for Building
Estimating
Accessories
Building Decks to Code
Deck Board and Surface Materials
Beams
Benches
- Benches and Function
- Build Your Bench In
- Patios Can Use Built In Benches Too
- Plans For a Built In Bench
Stairs
Wood Decks
- Constructing Wood Decks
- Build a Multi Level Cedar Deck
- Build a Hexagon Deck
- Wrap Around Deck
- A Two Level Structure
Hot Tub Decks
- Your Deck Becomes a Spa
- Building a Low Level Deck and Tub
- Two Levels and a Hot Tub
- Building on a Slope - Make if Work For You
- Wiring up Your Hot Tub
- Sizing Footings For Your Deck
Building Decks with Software
Photo Gallery
You should be reasonably well educated about building decks after reading all of these articles. But if not and you would like something else discussed in greater detail, don’t be shy – drop me a line.
I’d love to hear from you and I’ll keep trying to make Ideas For Deck Designs one of the very best resources on the Net for info on building decks.