Planning A Deck

Building a decks is great because it can extend your living space. In these settings, entertaining can be gracious, informal, and lively.

From Householder's Survival Manual

• Walk around your property to find the best location. Consider how much sun and shade you want to have on the deck and how private the spot will be. Wherever the location, it should be easy to access from the house, especially from the kitchen, if you plan to eat meals there.
  
  
• Draw a detailed sketch. Your drawing need not be artistic, but it should include as many details as possible. Consider what special features, such as built-in seating, planters, or a barbecue, you would like to have. Note any problems to be dealt with, such as sloping terrain or a nearby tree.
  
  
• Have the plans approved. Be sure they follow the zoning regulations in your community and are approved by the building department, which may require you to get a permit before you start construction.

  From Householder's Survival Manual

   

• Going Green
• • Decks
• • Weekend Projects
• • Backyards

• 7 Deck-Building Tips
• Techniques for building decks, stairs and railings
• 
• Revive Your Tired Deck
• Make your deck look beautiful again with these handy tips.
• 
• Low-Maintenance Decking and De
• Choose from composites like TREX, vinyl or aluminum for a low-maintenance deck.
• 
• Wood and Stone Deck
• How to build a deck with walls covered in stone veneer.
• 
• Natural Wood Decking
• Tough-as-steel natural wood decking
• 
• Planning A Patio
• Build your dream patio with out handy planning tips.
• 
• Classic Pergola
• Get more shade with this low-maintenance retreat.
• 

“ Be nice to your feet. Skip stylish heels and slip into your workout shoes for a long trek around the mall. ”

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“ Not only can gargling salt water soothe and moisturize your throat, but it also can kill harmful bacteria. Just be careful not to swallow. ”

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A friend of mine is a deputy with the sheriff’s department canine division. One evening, the deputy was dispatched to the scene of a possible burglary, where he discovered the back door of a building ajar. He let the dog out of his patrol car and commanded it to enter and seek. Jumping from the back seat, the dog headed for the building. After lunging through the doorway, the dog froze and backed out. My friend was puzzled until he investigated further. Then he noticed the sign on the building: “Veterinarian’s Office.”

-- Elizabeth Bennett