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Decking

Get information about how to tackle your latest decking project, including materials, installation, and repairs.

Considerations for Building a Wrap Around Deck

Deck space is always at a premium, and who doesn’t want to bring in more style to their outdoor area? A wrap-around deck will extend your lounge space and improve the look of the home and its landscape. But before setting out to build a new deck or add onto the old one, here are a few key considerations for building a wrap around deck.

DIY Backyard Projects for Summertime

Here are a handful of ways to create a more beautiful and relaxing outdoor space.

How to Build a Deck Gate

This sturdy but simple exterior gate is affordable, easy to build, and will make any porch or deck a safer place to hang out. Follow this guide to learn how to build a deck gate yourself.

Deck Maintenance Checklist: How to Keep Yours in Tip-Top Shape

Decks are a charming addition to your house. Keeping them maintained will provide lasting beauty and functionality. However, improper care can lead to serious problems. Here are tips to keep your deck in tip-top shape.

S20 E1, Mauro Henrique paints a deck rail
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How to Paint Outdoor Railings

Painter Mauro Henrique paints an outdoor railing that Nathan just built to match the original railing around a homeowner’s deck.

28 Easy Summer Weekend Projects

Looking for something to preoccupy your time this summer? Take a look at this roundup of our summer projects.

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How to Replace a Deck Joist Hanger

Ask This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert helps a homeowner repair her deck by replacing rotted hangers and re-securing the joist to the structure.

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How to Build a Simple Deck

This Old House general contractor Tom Silva's method for constructing a handsome on-grade deck.

S20 E29, Mauro Henrique helps refinish deck railings
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How to Refinish Deck Railings

This Old House paint expert Mauro Henrique shows a homeowner how to breathe new life into those old, splintery handrails.

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How to Clean and Restain a Deck

This Old House general contractor Tom Silva breathes new life into a weather-beaten wood deck

11 Ways to Create an Inviting Space on Your Rooftop

Your house or apartment’s rooftop deck offers lovely, even jaw-dropping views, but it’s seriously lacking in the design department. Nevertheless, it holds many possibilities—as a tranquil place to begin or end the day, a spot for socializing, or as a retreat that lets you take in fresh air and sunshine above the fray. See our ideas for decking out your roof deck to make the most of the space.

Beautiful Floating Deck Designs

These nine stunning ideas for floating decks will give you the urge to build one yourself in your backyard.

How to Build Storage Under Your Deck

Need more storage? Here’s how to use the area under your deck to create additional storage space for all kinds of items.

How to Attach a Deck to a House

Install a new deck, or reattach an existing one, that is set up to last.

S9 E21, Tom Silva shows Kevin O’Connor how to replace deck posts
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How to Replace a Deck Post

Shoring up an old deck with new supports with This Old House general contractor Tom Silva

Tom Silva and Kevin O’Connor install decking
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How to Install Decking

On a new front porch, Tom Silva shows Kevin O'Connor how to install mahogany decking with hidden fasteners and perfectly mitered joints

10 Design Ideas for Small Decks

With a little planning, small decks and patios can provide the same entertaining value as larger outdoor spaces. See our simple ideas to maximize the space of your small deck.

S20 E1, Nathan Gilbert builds deck stair railings
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How to Build a Deck Railing

Carpenter Nathan Gilbert builds and installs a railing for deck stairs that will match the original railing around the rest of the deck.

Ask S5 E6, Tom Silva builds deck stairs
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How to Build Deck Stairs

In this how-to video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shares his stair-building secrets

Ingenious Hot Tub Deck Ideas

Give your hot tub the extra special touch it needs with these great deck ideas for your hot tub.

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How to Install a Sliding Glass Door

This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to open up a wall for a large glass slider

Go From an Old Deck to New in 4 Steps

There's no secret to deck maintenance—repair the deck, clean it and protect it. But learning tricks the pros use can make the job go faster and the results last longer.

How to Give Your Deck a Spring Cleaning

Wash, sand, and stain your deck to give it a fresh look for the spring.

Low-Maintenance Exterior Material Options for Your Home

They may cost more up front, but these low-maintenance materials save later on frequent repainting and replacement—without skimping on curb appeal.

Decking Material Types

If you’re looking for the best decking material that fits your needs and budget, here’s information on the different types of deck materials you should consider.

Deck Cleaners, Stains & Sealers

Looking for the best decking treatment? A guide to the cleaners, finishes, and techniques for making your wood deck look new again.

Deck Ideas for Your Backyard

Design ideas to consider when remodeling or building your deck.

3 Types of Awnings for Your Deck

Awnings reduce sunlight, protect patio furniture, and make outdoor living more enjoyable. Let’s take a look at the different styles and costs of awnings.

How to Restore a Weathered Deck

Read these techniques for refurbishing an old deck.

Decking: An Overview

Learn about decking basics — from safety inspections and protocols to construction and maintenance. Know what you can DIY and when to hire contractors.

Decking Material Options to Consider

Explore a range of different possibilities before building your deck.

How to Fix a Wobbly Deck

Learn more about the two common causes for a wobbly deck and how to stabilize your space.