Provide enough clearance for the unit to operate properly and to allow workers to safely access it for maintenance and repair Read more
A short riser in a photo in an article on roofs catches a reader's attention Read more
Even though it's not required by code, it's a good idea to treat all cuts and penetrations in PT pine with copper naphthenate-if you can find it Read more
A code enforcement officer in the Buffalo, N.Y., area believes that most decks would fail if loaded to their code-required design capacity Read more
Letters
Not a Replacement for Lateral Load Anchors
Research at Washington State University shows that screwed joist hangers are stronger than nailed joist hangers and reinforce the potentially weak link at the joist-to-ledger connection Read more
TOOL KIT
FastCap Best Fence Pro Saw Stand
The base model, which comes with a 64-inch fence, can be accessorized with additional sections to accommodate 20-foot-long deck boards Read more
QUESTION & ANSWER
Lateral Bracing for a Second-Story Deck
There are alternatives to using the lateral-load anchors described in the IRC, if your inspector approves. Read more
Design
Edge Detail for Capped Composite Decking
A less expensive alternative to installing a picture-frame border to conceal cut decking ends Read more
Day’s End
Curved Deck on a Flood-Prone Riverbank
A unique multi-level structure is built to withstand 20-foot floods Read more
Mountain Laurel Railings
Custom-made mountain laurel railings add an artistic twist to a deck design Read more
Building Waterproof Roof Decks
Get better performance from your deck covering by using ‘best practices’ framing and flashing details Read more
A Tall Deck in Earthquake Country
How a California contractor incorporated a steel moment frame into the design of a multi-story deck built in a seismic zone. Read more
PRODUCTS
Feeney Lighting for DesignRail
New LED railing lights fit into recesses in the top and bottom rails Read more
PRODUCTS
Fypon Woodgrain Structural Columns
Steel-reinforced polyurethane holds up better than wood to insects and moisture Read more
PRODUCTS
Thompson's WaterSeal Waterproofing Stain
A flexible film accommodates natural wood movement Read more
Q&A
Rules for Mid-Stair Landings on Decks
Should the landing be treated as part of the stairs, or as a separate deck? Read more
PRODUCTS
Insect Shield Bug-Repellant Work Apparel
Shirts, socks, caps, and more keep pests away even after repeated washing Read more
Editor’s Letter
How Long Should Treated Lumber Last?
Some deck builders have noticed premature rot in treated decking and framing. Are new preservatives and lower retention levels (compared with old 0.40 CCA-treated lumber) to blame, or is the problem the use of above-ground-rated lumber when ground-contact-rated material is required? Read more