Deck building guides
Plain-English answers to the questions that come up when you plan a deck — paired with our free calculators so you can run your own numbers.
How Much Does a Deck Cost in 2026?
A clear breakdown of 2026 deck costs by size, material, and feature — plus what really drives the price and how to estimate your own.
Composite vs. Wood Decking: Which Should You Choose?
An honest comparison of composite and wood decking — cost, maintenance, lifespan, looks, and which makes sense for your budget.
How Deep Should Deck Footings Be? A Frost Line Guide
Why deck footings must go below the frost line, typical depths by region, and how to calculate how much concrete you'll need.
How to Calculate and Build Deck Stairs
Step-by-step on calculating deck stair risers, treads, total run, and stringer length — plus the code limits you need to hit.