A beautiful, versatile redwood deck can extend your lifestyle and add richness and pleasure to daily living. Equally as important, a deck is a long-term investment because it increases the resale value of your home. Here are some basic planning, design and building tips for the deck of your dreams.
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Be sure to choose quality materials. Redwood is a classic for decks because it is great looking, resists weathering and is easy to saw and use. The heartwood grades naturally resist insects and decay. Redwood has no chemical additives and resists warping and splitting better than other woods.
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The rugged, knot-textured garden grades, which are more economical than architectural grades, are ideal for outdoor structures. Choose an all-heartwood grade such as Construction Heart or Deck Heart for applications on or near the ground. The sapwood-streaked grades, Construction Common and Deck Common, for example, are good choices for above-ground uses such as deck boards.
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A variety of joist hangers, patented connectors and deck fasteners are available to help the do-it-yourselfer. When working with redwood, always use top quality, hot dipped galvanized, stainless steel or aluminum hardware. To avoid splitting, pre-drill holes for nails or screws at the ends of the decking boards.
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Redwood takes and holds finishes better than most other woods. For long lasting good looks and performance, a quality water repellent finish containing a mildewcide and an ultraviolet inhibitor is recommended For best results, the finish should be applied directly to the lumber before construction covering all sides, edges and ends. A second application is recommended when the deck is completed. A redwood deck addition to a backyard corner incorporates a bubbling spa. The simple asymmetrical deck was stained a silvery gray to blend with the house siding. Brick paving and flagstone provide interesting contrasts to the redwood structure. .

Many deck solutions in the '90's provide for shelter from the sun. This redwood deck addition includes soaring shade redwood trellises. Built-in benches and surrounding redwood fencing create an private backyard getaway.

An sloping, unusable side yard area was transformed with a redwood deck addition. An shady, existing tree was incorporated into the plan. Sparkling white railings contrast beautifully with the cinnamon color of the redwood decking and stairs.
An inviting, low-maintenance backyard landscaping solution is an above-ground pool surrounded by a redwood deck. A series of low steps form a graceful transition to a conversation area. Built-in planter/walls provide privacy and the pleasure of surrounding plants.

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