Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. three spaces designed with decking steps (Alamy/Yardzen/CladCo) If your backyard is split level or terraced, you can use decking ...

Want a better backyard but feel overwhelmed at the idea of major construction? We get it — building a traditional deck can seem expensive, complicated, and downright intimidating. That’s exactly why ...

Picture a stair slope in your mind to estimate about a 40-degree slope and guess at a landing point. Rest any straight piece of deck lumber on the deck and level it over to the landing point. Measure ...

I read your recent column about building stairs for a deck. I can handle that, but I’m worried about how to make all the complex cuts required for the deck stair railing. Can you give me a few ...

Dear James: My old wood deck is deteriorating and the stairs could be hazardous. What is the easiest way to install new ones for an inexperienced DIY-er? — Shantell K. Sign up for our free newsletter.

Ashlyn is one of Forbes Home's in-house writers and a former civil engineer-turned content writer with over six years experience. Until recently, Ashlyn focused on creating content for Forbes Home as ...