A deck or patio is the foundation of an outdoor room, and its design and maintenance contribute to your family’s enjoyment of outdoor living. Decks and patios are simple outdoor DIY projects, and we’ve got all the information you need for choosing patio pavers, determining the right board spacing for your deck, and preparing a wood deck for a beautiful finish.

In this section, learn how to design and build a deck using wood or composite decking, and get tips for making a strong deck that won’t collapse under typical outdoor living routines. Find out how to clean, strip and refinish your deck, and how to repair loose deck boards. Learn about building a patio with brick and patio pavers, and which patio doors will make your patio more accessible.