If the foundation and framing of your outdoor deck are in bad condition, you’ll have two basic options. Rebuild parts of the old deck, attempting to salvage areas that are still functional Tear it down completely and build a brand new deck Starting fresh is probably your best option if the deck in question is…
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The short answer is between $10,000 – $25,000. However, you could be lower or significantly higher than this range, depending on four important factors. Size The bigger your deck, the more materials you’ll need. Outdoor deck builders also tend to bill “per square foot” for outdoor deck installations. An average sized deck between 200 and…
Deck refinishing is also something many homeowners decide to undertake on their own. This can be a rewarding and economical way to go, provided you know the proper techniques and are equipped to give yourself an excellent result. Sadly, this is not always the case. Some DIY refinishing projects end up costing more time and…
As deck resurfacing has become more and more popular, people are wondering if it’s possible to undertake this project (whether DIY or with professional help) during the winter months. Is it really necessary to wait until the weather is warm? Or can a deck be resurfaced during the winter and ready to use when the…
Cedar is often considered a middle-of-the-road option between these two extremes, at least where price is concerned. The most obvious downside to a natural wood deck is that they require more upkeep. Natural wood will need to be sealed every few years to keep it from chipping and splintering. Additionally, wooden decks should never be…
Screened porches Screened porches are also known as “three-season” porches, for exactly the reasons described in the beginning of this article. People tend to use them during Spring, Summer and Fall — during the winter, it may be too cold to get much use of them. They provide a breezy, comfortable living space that’s protected…
Multiple tiers If the majority of outdoor decks you see are flat, single-plane structures, it’s probably because few owners are really aware of the advantages of multiple tiers. In addition to marking off different areas of the deck (for instance a lounge area on one tier and an outdoor kitchen or grilling area on another…
Easier said than done, right? Not necessarily. Here are some practical, proven ways to give you porch the “wow” factor without sacrificing any of the functionality you need. Built-in fireplaces Cozying up by a crackling fire isn’t something you can only do inside. Built-in fireplaces can give your porch or outdoor deck an extraordinary quality,…
First off, it’s good to determine whether you want natural wood or modern composite material for your outdoor deck. There are different types of natural wood, and various brands of composite—but in general, what are the pros and cons of each? Certain types of wood, such as cedar and redwood, are naturally resistant to insects…
This is obviously a good thing, as it gives you more control over your investment and your final results. It enables you to design and install the deck you want, and gives you a lot more room for creativity. On the other hand, it can lead to confusion and stress if you don’t know what…