DIY Network

Backyard Decks From canopies that simply just snap into place, to gadgets that'll keep you cool in summer and warm in the fall, we've got it all. From "Today Show Tips" episode DTST-115

Tips for Building a Deck

Nothing expands outdoor space like a deck, but building one yourself can be expensive, time-consuming and a real pain, right? Not necessarily, as long as you have home-improvement skills that are just slightly above average. And you can save as much as half the cost by building your own deck.

Most home centers and lumber yards offer free design services that will help you figure out the structural issues. They'll also help you determine how much lumber and what kind and sizes you'll need. The most economical choice of wood is pressure-treated pine, but you may also consider redwood, cedar and composite materials.

Take some time to check out the different styles of balusters that are available, both wooden and metal. There are also several options with post caps, which add a decorative touch to the finished deck.

For fastening, try split-stop screws. They're self-drilling and finish very well. Screws are less likely to pull out over time than nails.

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If you make your own chaise longue, keep it close to standard size so that you'll be able to buy cushions for it.

Tips for Building a Chaise Longue

To really enjoy the great outdoors from your deck, you'll want to stretch out on the perfect wooden lounge chair, but they can cost big bucks. But for about $100, you can build your own custom cedar chaise longue.

When you're designing your chaise longue, it's a good idea to keep it close to standard dimensions: 6 feet long and 2 feet wide. That will let you buy cushions for it at just about any store that sells patio furniture.

Building a large piece of furniture may seem intimidating, but think of it in its component parts. A chaise has a basic rectangular frame built with 2x4s. The legs are just 10" lengths of 2x4. The back support may look complicated, but you can make it by drilling a line of holes in a 2x4, then ripping the 2x4 with a table saw or handsaw.

The back of the chaise should be about one-third of its total length, or about 2 feet. Use a piano hinge to attach it to the seat. Then attach the movable support to the back of the chaise with carriage bolts, which will let the support adjust easily.

You can stain or paint the chaise longue, but most people prefer to let the wood weather naturally. It depends on the kind of wood, though. If you use pine, you should consider using a preservative or stain.

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