Hurricane Ties: Uses and Installation
Hurricane ties are hardware pieces that connect the joists to cantilevered beams to reduce uplift forces caused by high winds. These are inexpensive and are a good precaution to use wherever high winds may be a problem, especially in zones where hurricanes and tornadoes are common.
Be sure that the hurricane ties and fasteners are compatible with new pressure-treated lumber. Hurricane ties will not usually be required by your local building department, but they are a cost-effective method of securing your joists over a cantilevered beam that may be lifted by high winds.

Capped Composite Decking
What is capped composite decking? It's a great option if you like the look of wood but not the maintenance. Learn about capped composite at Decks.com.
Fiberon
Fiberon low maintenance decking is manufactured by Fiber Composites, LLC in New London, NC
CorrectDeck
CorrectDeck composite decking is manufactured by Correct Bldg. Products in Biddleford, ME
Cutting a Concrete Pad
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Layout Deck Foundations
Learn how to lay out your deck footings accurately using triangulation with our step-by-step instructions.
Digging Foundations
Learn how to hand dig or mechanically dig your deck footings with step-by-step instructions. Learn what to do if you hit a rock.
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Hurricane Ties: Uses and Installation
Hurricane ties are hardware pieces that connect the joists to cantilevered beams to reduce uplift forces caused by high winds. These are inexpensive and are a good precaution to use wherever high winds may be a problem, especially in zones where hurricanes and tornadoes are common.
Be sure that the hurricane ties and fasteners are compatible with new pressure-treated lumber. Hurricane ties will not usually be required by your local building department, but they are a cost-effective method of securing your joists over a cantilevered beam that may be lifted by high winds.

Capped Composite Decking
What is capped composite decking? It's a great option if you like the look of wood but not the maintenance. Learn about capped composite at Decks.com.
Common Wood Defects: Types & Causes of Lumber Issues
There are many common types of defects when it comes to wood decking, such as dead knots, shakes, twists and wanes. Learn about lumber defects at Decks.com.
Capped Composite Decking
What is capped composite decking? It's a great option if you like the look of wood but not the maintenance. Learn about capped composite at Decks.com.
Cutting a Concrete Pad
Learn how to use a concrete saw to cut a hole in a patio slab to install a deck footing.
Water in deck footing holes
Find out what to do if your deck footing holes fill up with water.
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Compare the pros and cons of installing a solid concrete deck footing using a cardboard tube or engineered forms.
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