Deck Building Basics
by: Dean Novosat
In my previous article, "planning for a new deck," I outlined the steps for planning for a new deck. This article takes the process one step further. We'll look at how to get started actually building your deck. By this time, I will assume that you have your building permit in hand, a good set of plans, and a materials list. If you don't have a material list, simply take your plan to your nearest home center or building supply store and have them create one for you. Most lumber yards can actually arrange for delivery of all your materials at one time including all the nails and screws are you will need. This can be quite handy on large projects or if you don't own a truck or a trailer. The lumber yard will bring all the parts and pieces you will need to build your new deck.
The first place to start, is to set some posts for your deck to rest on. Were I live in the Northeast, we have to deal with the frost and free cycle of winter. When I received my building permit, the code officer made sure to point out that all posts must be secured in country at least 36 inches below the surface of the ground. This will ensure that when the ground freezes the posts of the deck will not heave. Check with your local zoning office to find out what your specifications are for setting posts.
Renting a post hole digger makes setting the posts much easier, especially if you live in an area with a lot of playing or a lot of stone in your soil. I was able to dig a half a dozen holes in less than an hour. Digging the same number of holes my hand would've taken me at least half a day so the few dollars I spent on the post hole digger rental was well worth it.
Next, a port some stoning concrete makes into the holes and set the posts. My plan called for 4x4 posts. Your plans may be different. After the posts were in and let the concrete cure according to the directions on the package. I then nailed 2 x 2 joists to the side of the House and around the perimeter of the deck. I used metal choice hangers to hang all the internal joists. You can also tell nailed them but metal choice hangers are stronger and easier to use than trying to toenail large lumber.
There are lots of different types of taking you can use on top of your deck. I choose simple pressure treated lumber. To attach the deck boards to the joists you can use either nails or screws. If you use nails, make sure you use special spiral nails. These help prevent nails from popping. Deck screws are preferable as they are stronger but they are much more expensive than nails when laying out the decking, it is easier to let the deck boards run long and trim them down later once the entire deck surface is finished. When all the deck boards or laid, simply take a circular saw, and cut all the ends off the deck.
For a finished look, attach a skirt board to the exposed edges of the decking and over the rim joists. The last thing to do, if needed, would be to add railing, and or steps. However, these basics should get you started.
About The Author
Dean Novosat is an avid do-it-yourselfer and remodeler. He writes for http://build-decks-patios.com, http://ww.the-bathroom-designer.com and http://www.the-kitchen-designer.com.
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Ten Fashion Must Haves Spring Through Fall 2006
Ten Fashion Must Haves Spring Through Fall 2006
by: Robert Carney
Be smart! Wait a minute, you are smart! You've let OldCrappyTee.com perk up your wardrobe with crazy cool Old Crappy T-shirts, now we can help you choose a few new wardrobe selections to carry through the Fall season that are in step with current fashion. Choose a few practical purchases, and make room for a few compulsive ones too!
Eleven Fashion Must Haves Spring through Fall 2006:
1. Blouses are back!
Girlie dressing has returned with blousy style in ruffles, flounces and fancy neck-ties. Sleeves are unique, maybe a bit blouson with gathering at the shoulders. Isn't fabric luxurious? Pick your slinky tops with bare shoulders and/or your bare back. Your waist can be loose or fitted. Tops can be plain or decorated.
2. Bags with structure.
Put away the slouch bag for now. Bags in 2006 see a trend toward dome...
Ten Fashion Must Haves Spring Through Fall 2006
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Getting Ready: For Women
Getting Ready: For Women
by: Julia Tanner
Most women reading this are thinking that they already know how to get ready for a date, and this is a similar situation. While that?s true, you may want to read this over anyways to make sure that some little details are attended to.
When You?re In The Shower
You will want to take a shower because a bath might make you sleepy for the rest of the evening?and you don?t want that.
Before you get into the shower, make sure that you have a razor, shaving scream, face soap, and anything else that you normally need. With everything on your mind right now, you don?t want to have to keep getting out for things that you have forgotten.
Wash your body very carefully first. You can scrub with one of those poofy sponges and some bath gel for a light, clean scent. You will want to use lukewarm water so that your skin doesn?t dry out too much.
Wash your hair carefully and don?t use too much...
Getting Ready: For Women
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Pregnancy Photography - Tips For The Belly!
Pregnancy Photography - Tips For The Belly!
by: Heather Hart
These tips have been provided by Heather Hart of A La Mode Photo who specializes in natural environment, pregnancy, family and pet photography.
1. Find a friend.
Since you are the model, you need someone who has a few hours to dedicate to you and your Belly!
2. Try using a camera with real film and not digital. Go to a camera store and ask for professional black and white film - avoid going to the local market or drugstore for your film - there is a big difference! Ask for 125 speed film - there is less grain. And everyone always looks so much better in black and white - try it, you may like it!
3. Wear natural make-up - a little base and accent your eyes! Since you're shooting outdoors, keep it light!
4. Choose a place outside! A local park with trees always works nicely. Make sure that the background where you are shooting is also nice. Be careful of trash...
Pregnancy Photography - Tips For The Belly!
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Toile bedding
Toile bedding
by: Patricia Bowlin
Toile is a centuries old fabric that has once again become quite popular for use in gorgeous, lushly detailed bedding. (pronounced twaal)
Delicate drawings, very Old World in nature, often define the fabric.
Some conflicting opinions exist about the origin of toile. Some say it was originally created in Ireland in the 1700s. Other sources believe it originated in Toile de Jouy France.
Because of a new technique of engraved plate printing, the look became wildly popular.
Today, it most often describes a fine line printed fabric design that looks very much like a pen and ink work. The most elegant toile fabrics are still printed using engraved plates or rollers.
The majority of bedding created from toile today is based on country themes.
For example, Waverly's toile comforter of 100% cotton depicts a scene that appears Colonial or Old World in nature, with men, a woman riding...
Toile bedding
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