Decking
Get information about how to tackle your latest decking project, including materials, installation, and repairs.
Tom and Norm Build a Small Deck
Tom Silva and Norm Abram team up to make quick work of framing a small deck. Did the chisel come out of Norm's pouch? Of course it did
Home Inspection Nightmares | Dangerous Deck
Ask This Old House host Kevin O’Connor, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, general contractor Tom Silva and mason Mark McCullough share some wild code violations submitted to them by home inspectors
Why Wood Decks Never Go Out of Style
With its unique nature, varying grains, and overall warmth, nothing beats the beauty of a natural wood deck. Beyond the look, there are other benefits too; read on to find out what makes wood an ideal choice for decking.
Prepping to Stain Like a Pro
Nick Slavik demonstrates how to prep and clean two very different decks—one old and weathered, and one brand-new pine— in anticipation of restaining and finishing with two very different coatings from Behr.
How to Repair Rising Deck Boards
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva helps diagnose a problem with composite decking coming loose
Building a Deck? Read This!
Whether you're a skilled DIYer or plan to hire a pro, our expert tips will help you plan smart for a deck that fits your wallet, and your family's lifestyle
Add a Drainage System Under Raised Decks
Keep the area dry for storage or added living space
The TOH Guide to Decks
Kick off the warm season with the ultimate hangout spot
Build It | Cedar Deck Box Planter
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O’Connor build a deck box planter using western red cedar.
Ask This Old House: Tom Silva’s Greatest Deck Hits
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva helps homeowners fix, build, and maintain their backyard decks
How to Add a Little Mood Lighting to Your Deck
Use energy-efficient LEDs to cast a warm glow on the deck, stairs, and trees, and you can extend the party (safely) into the night
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
How to Install Fiesta String Lights
Ask This Old House master electrician Scott Caron helps a homeowner install fiesta string lights to get the party started in Texas
Simple Steps to Get Your Deck Ready for the Season
Before you hit the deck, give it a little TLC with these pro tips
How to Install a Shade Sail
This Old House host Kevin O'Connor has two simple sun-blocking solutions for keeping a deck and home cool during the summer
How to Install a Cable Deck Railing
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva installs a cable railing on a deck in Greenwich Village, New York
From Plain to Period-Perfect Back Porch
A healthy dose of Craftsman detail and a cheerful color palette give a new back porch front-and-center personality
Deck Safety Checklist
7 signs that it's time to repair or replace your deck
How to Revive a Beat-Up Deck
Coat cracked and dried-out boards with sand-impregnated paint to bring them back to life
All About Hardwood Decking
Ipe is the gold standard, but plenty of other species stack up quite nicely on looks and longevity, often at a lower price
How to Restore a Deck
Follow the prep instructions carefully and paint on a specialty coating to preserve weathered boards for years to come
16 Ways to Customize Your Deck
16 upgrades and add-ons to create a more attractive and usable backyard deck
Exterior Wood Staining Made Simple
Your guide to beautifying decks, railing, furniture, and other exterior home details
17 Stunning Decks to Inspire Your Backyard Transformation
Think outside the standard wood platform with smart design ideas for a range of settings and budgets
How to Replace a Deck Post
Shoring up an old deck with new supports with This Old House general contractor Tom Silva
How to Pour a Concrete Deck Footing
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to dig and pour concrete supports
DIY Backyard Projects for Summertime
Here are a handful of ways to create a more beautiful and relaxing outdoor space.
How to Replace Deck Stair Balusters
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shares some tricks of the trade for accurately cutting and assembling railing supports
How to Safely Attach a Deck to a House
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to save a wood deck from a catastrophic collapse
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
37 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Outdoor Rooms
Set out a daybed, weather-resistant cushions, or one of our other finds, and in a short time you'll have the ultimate staycation escape.
How to Build a Durable Backyard Retreat
Composite decking is a beautiful, high performance, and environmentally-friendly way to create the outdoor oasis you've always wanted