“Housing and inspections departments will look over plans, but they don’t offer a plan. For approximately $300, a professional engineer will come to your home and tell you how to build your deck.” ...

You can give an old deck a new look by adding modern railings. This deck design from Supreme Deck Builders features black balusters that give the deck a modern look when combined with wood railings.

Despite our region’s snowy winter, it’s not too soon to be thinking about outdoor entertaining in the spring. Build (or rebuild) a deck off your home, and you’ll have a spot for grilling or chilling.