How To Finish Your Porch
Finishing a porch is the process of decorating the interior and exterior shell for the purpose of appearance. The most basic element is how to cover the ceiling and house wall. Installing tongue and groove cedar bead board is a popular look but can be expensive, especially on a large porch. Railings are usually required on porches just like decks and can be installed to the inside or outside of a screen wall. Some porch builders build knee walls in the place of rails and use siding materials and trim to match the house. A variety of attractive screen doors are available. Soffits and fascia are usually selected to match the house, as well. Operable windows are a nice touch and can make the porch more versatile for colder weather, but they can be very expensive. Trim of all kinds can be installed to the inside and outside of the porch. Individual tastes do vary as to what looks nice and what looks over-decorated. A number of excellent products are available for these purposes.
How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Planning and installing a DIY brick or stone paver patio is a big project. Learn how to build a paver patio from start to finish here.
9 Conservatory Design Ideas for Indoor/Outdoor Living
Conservatories are a great way to ensure that you (and your plants) can soak up the sun all year round. Get inspired with conservatory design ideas.
Shade Ideas for Decks, Porches, and Patios | Decks.com
Create a cool, relaxing haven with these 20 shade ideas. Perfect for decks, porches, or patios, these solutions help you stay comfortable while enhancing your backyard’s style.
How to Install Decking Over Existing Concrete Slab, Patio, or Porch
Discover the best techniques to build a deck over concrete, ensuring proper drainage and stability, while creating a beautiful outdoor space.
Picture Frame Decking
Install a picture frame or perimeter board to finish the edge of your deck with style.
Best Hidden Deck Fasteners
Hidden fasteners create a clean deck surface and can be used with composite, wood and other materials. Learn about hidden deck fasteners at Decks.com.
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Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
9 Conservatory Design Ideas for Indoor/Outdoor Living
Conservatories are a great way to ensure that you (and your plants) can soak up the sun all year round. Get inspired with conservatory design ideas.
How to Install & Build a Porch Roof
It's important to know the propper matierials neded to build a porch roof to prevent water damage. Read more about building a porch roof at Decks.com.
How to Screen in a Porch, Patio or Deck
Learn how to create a relaxing and insect-free outdoor space with a DIY screened-in porch or patio. Explore the benefits of screened enclosures, from enjoying fresh breezes and shade to keeping bugs out.
What to Consider When Building A Wrap-Around Deck
Looking to add a wrap-around deck to your home but unsure of what the process involves? Check out this guide to learn more about top considerations when building a wrap-around deck.
How to Install Composite Decking
Learn about how to install composite decking. Topics include expansion and contraction issues and hidden fastener systems.
How To Build a Roof Over A Deck
Extend your outdoor living space with a covered deck! Discover the key considerations like structural support, roof styles, materials, and costs.
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights