Decks & outdoor living
Field Guide3 min
Can a Frost-Free Outdoor Tap Still Freeze?
The protection depends on how the tap is built and installed. A connected hose can defeat the drainage of an ordinary frost-free faucet.
Read the postThe Workshop / 24 useful reads
Materials & everyday care.
Plan an Ontario deck from the ground up: permits, supports, materials, stairs, and the details that keep an outdoor room comfortable.
A closer look
1–12 of 24
Decks & outdoor living
Workshop Notes3 min
The Leaves Between Your Deck Boards Are Worth Five Minutes
The top looked swept. Between the boards, autumn had signed a long-term lease.
Read the postDecks & outdoor living
Everyday Renovations3 min
You Cut the Deck Board. Does the Fresh End Need Treatment?
The board was pressure-treated before it met your saw. That pale new end deserves a little attention of its own.
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Decks & outdoor living
Workshop Notes3 min
Your New Deck Has Bigger Gaps. Did Something Go Wrong?
The missing pencil was under the deck. The more interesting question was why it now fitted through.
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Decks & outdoor living
Project Guide2 min
A Window Reflection Can Damage Decking
An unusually hot strip or distorted board may be caused by concentrated window reflections. Investigate the heat source before replacing the same decking twice.
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Project Guide2 min
Black Streaks Around Cedar Screws: Is It Mould?
Dark marks on cedar can come from iron reacting with the wood. Check the pattern and fastener material before treating every black patch as mould.
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Project Guide2 min
Can You Pressure-Wash an Older Composite Deck?
Cleaning advice for new composite decking may damage an older board. Identify the product generation before choosing pressure, cleaners, or a restoration plan.
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Decks & outdoor living
Project Guide2 min
Deck Stain Peeling After Winter? Pause Before Recoating
Peeling deck stain needs a preparation plan, not another thick coat. Identify the old finish, moisture conditions, and sound surface before starting again.
Read the postDecks & outdoor living
Project Guide2 min
Why Composite Deck Gaps Change With the Weather
Composite deck gaps depend on the board, fastener, and installation temperature. Check the actual product instructions before closing an uncomfortable-looking joint.
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Project Guide2 min
An Outdoor Rug Left a Mark on the Composite Deck
A rug-shaped patch can involve backing, trapped dirt, or uneven weathering. Identify the decking and follow its care guidance before trying a stronger cleaner.
Read the postDecks & outdoor living
Project Guide2 min
Composite Deck Fascia Buckling? Check the Fixing Detail
Wavy fascia can reflect movement, fastening, spacing, or the backing behind it. Identify the product and installation detail before adding more screws.
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Decks & outdoor living
Project Guide2 min
Deck Skirting: Hide the Storage, Keep the Access
Before enclosing a deck, plan ventilation, removable access, drainage, and the equipment behind it. A neat skirt should not make the house harder to service.
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