Decking How To & DIY

Improve the value of your home by discovering our decking step-by-step tips & ideas.

Deck Design Ideas

From built-in planters to shade-producing pergolas to railings and more, explore innovative decking ideas curated by our experts.

Our experts help you address 9 little trouble spots around your home before they cause big—as in big bucks—damage down the road

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

In this guide, you'll learn to properly square joists for your deck, from basic techniques and essential tools to troubleshooting.

Learn how to place piers for a sturdy deck. This guide covers layout, spacing, digging, and setting piers for your deck foundation.

Retractable screen doors are a great way to protect your home from the elements while still enjoying the sunshine and breeze.

In this how-to video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to build a simple entry-level deck.

Go from sticky to smooth in a few easy steps

In this how-to video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to conceal a concrete stoop with wood-composite decking.

In this guide, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to build sturdy, attractive deck stairs for your home.

In this how-to video, learn to create a maintenance-free deck with This Old House general contractor Tom Silva.

Give those tired old boards a refreshing makeover in six easy steps

Eliminate the sag in a long handrail.

Watch as This Old House general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates how to build a professional-looking on-grade home deck.

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

Decks can be dangerous if they're installed incorrectly. In this guide, we discuss safety precautions and installation methods for safe decks.