Decks

 View from below of gazebo roof with roof boards installed. View from below of gazebo roof with roof boards installed.
How to Build a Deck

Gazebos: How to Install the Gazebo Roof Deck

Use standard 5/4 cedar decking boards for your roof deck. This will provide a solid foundation for the remaining two layers. Install the boards so that the good face is turned toward the ground. The underside is visible and the top side is not only out of view, but will be covered by felt and wood shingles.

Gazebo with completed gazebo railing.
How to Build a Deck

Gazebos: How to Install a Gazebo Railing and Trim

Gazebo Railings

Any standard wood deck railing system or custom deck railing can be used for gazebo construction. Any gazebo that is set more than 12” above grade will require a rail to meet building code. Check local codes to determine specifics. In general, rails are 36” to 42” in height, and have spindles or “balusters” spaced less than 4” apart.

Completed second tier of gazebo roof, before installation.
How to Build a Deck

Gazebos: How to Frame Your Gazebo Roof

Detailed steps with images detailing how to build a gazebo roof, including ripping corner posts, the gazebo foundation ring, single and two-tiered gazebo roofs, blocking gazebo rafters, fascia boards, and more.
Base structure of Gazebo, framed, before deck boards go on.
How to Build a Deck

Gazebos: How to Build a Gazebo Foundation

Gazebos are a fairly traditional garden structure used for outdoor entertaining. They are defined by their solid roof and open sides, are typically free standing and can have from four to eight sides. Our gazebo plans feature a traditional octagon pattern. Gazebo construction is more complex than most deck building, due to the angled framing and eight sided structure.

An arched bridge between 2 decks.
How to Build a Deck

Custom Walkways and Bridges

Bridges and walkways are a great way to connect large deck sections but still allow for natural vegetation to grow. These tips and advice will help you build a bridge or walkway on your property.
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How to Build a Deck

Preparation: Deck Building Tools

List of essential tools, as well as specialty tools and fasteners to make building your deck easier. Follow this guide for the recommended tools to mark and layout your deck, determine location and dig footings, nd then build the deck structure. There are also some recommended upgrades and specialty tools as well.
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How to Build a Deck

Preparation: Inspect Your Deck Building Lumber and Materials

The structural integrity, and finished look of your deck will only be as good as the quality of the materials used to build it. It's important to inspect and verify the quality of any products being used to build your deck. When shopping for lumber, or accepting a delivery, make sure the lumber is in good condition, not excessively warped, or split, and of the correct size and dimensions.
Deck plan materials list.
How to Build a Deck

Preparation: How to Check a Materials List, or Write Your Own

A materials list makes it easy to buy the right amount of materials for your deck project, and make sure you do not miss anything, saving you time. See what a materials list should include, and learn how to create your own materials list, based on your deck plan, for your deck build.
A deck plan overhead view for a large deck.
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Choosing Your Deck Plan

Deck plans - size, building materials, features such as railing lights, planters, and privacy screens all affect the design and price of your deck. A great plan will yield great results.