Bruce Barker, one of the country's leading authorities on building codes, has turned his eye toward one of his favorite subjects: building decks. Although it's one of the most popular DIY building projects, just about every deck built in the past decade (by pros as well as homeowners) falls short of current codes. In BLACK+DECKER Deck Codes & Standards Barker zeroes in on the main areas of concern and shows accurately and precisely how to design and build it right. Given that every year in the U.S. more than 120,000 people are injured by deck collapses, and more than 50 die, following Barker's careful and detailed advice is the surest way for a homeowner to protect against disaster.

In BLACK+DECKER Deck Codes & Standards, national authority on building codes, Bruce Barker, explains how to both design and build decks within legal limits. In BLACK+DECKER Deck Codes & Standards Barker accurately shows how to design and build decks right. Given that every year in the U.S. more than 120,000 people are injured by deck collapses, and more than 50 die, following Barker's careful and detailed advice is the surest way for a homeowner to protect against disaster. Using the same common-sense approach he used in his bestselling book BLACK+DECKER Codes for Homeowners, Barker isolates the aspects of deck building that are the most frequent sources of trouble and shows--with photos, illustrations, and commentary--exactly how to do it correctly. Barker's new book is not only for DIYers who are building a brand new deck. National deck building codes have changed significantly in the past five years: 4 x 4 posts are no longer allowed for structural purposes that a few years ago were deemed fine, and minimum diameter requirements for concrete posts have doubled in many applications. If your existing deck is more than two or three years old, you'll want this detailed but accessible volume.

"Whether you are a homeowner, a builder, or inspector, [BLACK]DECKER Deck Codes and Standards] is for you...this excellent and valuable manual is highly ­recommended." --Library Journal, review of the first edition National codes expert Bruce Barker accurately shows how to design and build decks right. Given that every year in the US more than 120,000 people are injured by deck collapses, and more than 50 die, following Barker's careful and detailed advice is not only important for passing inspection, but to protect against potential disaster. Using the same common-sense approach he used in his best-selling book BLACK+DECKER Codes for Homeowners, Barker isolates the aspects of deck building that are the most frequent sources of trouble and shows--with photos, illustrations, and commentary--exactly how to do it correctly. This updated edition is not only for DIYers who are building a brand new deck. National deck building codes have changed significantly in the past five years. If your existing deck is more than two or three years old, you'll want this detailed but accessible volume.

Be inspired by new design and follow the latest codes as you custom build the deck of your dreams. Architecture, building codes, and design are not static; they change constantly. That’s why there’s a new edition of the best-selling BLACK+DECKER The Complete Guide to Decks, incorporating updates to national building codes, as well as new developments in building materials and design. Calling attention to composite deckboards and railings, as well as other PVC products made from recycled plastic, the new materials systems featured in this book are environmentally friendly, easy to work with, rot resistant, and very low maintenance. Whether you opt for manufactured deck products or wood, the success of your project depends upon a sturdy deck undercarriage. Accomplishing this isn’t difficult, but building the framework requires that you have the latest information on building codes. In recent years, these codes have changed significantly, affecting everything from post diameter to allowable joist hangers to railing height and even the size of concrete footings. BLACK+DECKER The Complete Guide to Decks Updated 7th Edition is the only DIY deck book that’s fully updated to conform to the latest codes. Chapters covered in the book include: Deck Planning & Design Deck Materials & Tools Structural Support Decking Stairs Railings Accessories Finishing & Maintaining Your Deck Custom Deck Projects Gallery of Inspiring Decks BLACK+DECKER The Complete Guide to Decks Updated 7th Edition offers complete step-by-step photos and instructions, so even homeowners with limited DIY experience are assured of a deck that meets their needs. So, don’t wait any longer; build the deck of your dreams and start enjoying it!

Shows how to build 12 stylish decks -- simple ground level to multilevel. Projects explained in detail with materials list. Illustrated with 85 full-colour illustrations and 14 full-colour photos.

This book takes the reader through the entire process of building a deck - from planning stages, through construction to the custom details that make a deck more functional and attractive.

Provides instructions for designing and building a deck, including tools, materials, and techniques.