An outdoor deck can give your backyard an attractive focal point, as well as a practical space to enjoy warmer weather or brisk evenings outside. Whether you want a multi-level deck or a simple wood patio, the installation process involves determining the type of design you want for your deck, choosing your materials, and understanding the various parts of a deck.

Learning about the different types of materials you can use to build your deck and the level of maintenance involved in each can help you plan for your deck installation, as well as how to care for it in order to get years or decades of enjoyment from it.