Product Description

This book in the Build Like a Pro series takes a practical approach for the homeowner. It takes the reader through the entire process of building a deck - from the planning stages, through construction, step-by-step, to the custom details that make a deck more functional and attractive. Professional-level information is carefully explained and presented so that the serious DIYer can tackle building a deck with complete confidence. What sets this book apart is the depth and breadth of information on deck design and construction methods: Producing plans; Design considerations; Estimating size and cost; Building basics; Framing - ledgers, posts and beams; Joists; Decking; Railings; Stairs and Ramps; Lighting; Building a roof deck

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #94383 in Books
• Published on: 2003-04-17
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 192 pages

Customer Reviews

Lacks detail
This book makes alot of assumptions.

The book does not tell you possible problems that you might run into and how to fix them.

The book does not explain basic concepts , and I found myself looking to alternative references. (Infact, I found must of my decking information on the Internet). Also, it offers one way to perform a task , and never examines alternative methods.

Some explanations do not make sense at all (I have a degree in Engineering !)
Photographic detail is poor and illustrations do not convey information.

Very good, but not great
This is a pretty decent book on building decks, but as with all the books on this subject it doesn't cover everything. I read this in conjunction with the Black and Decker Decking book and together they cover almost everything you need.
The photographs and illustrations are good, and it's packed full of useful hints. The only real downside is the American slant (as one other reviewer mentioned). Issues with nail and timber sizes are easily overcome, but the American approach to pier forms is not one used in the UK (you'll know what I mean when you read the book) and has caused me, at least, some serious head-scratching.
Nonetheless, this book (and the B&D one) has guided me from a complete novice to building a large well-built deck over the past few weeks.

Build like a pro, Building a deck.
This is one of the best books i have seen on the subject of building decks, it is very comprehensive in its dimensions, layout, and discripsion. There are good colour photos to go with every stage of the process, there are even shopping lists at the back and ways of getting around certain problem i.e lighting, stairs. overall a first class book and should be on anyones shopping list whos thinking of building there own deck.