Deck Designs, 3rd Edition: Great Design Ideas from Top Deck Designers (Creative Homeowner) Paperback – February 1, 2009

Great book for what it is --- a picture book to go through and find different attributes of decks you like and give to your deck builder. It's got a lot of large, full color pictures.And that's how we used it. There's text in there, but I don't think we bothered to read much of it. Most of the writing tells you about things to think about -- like where to place your deck, sunlight concerns/thoughts, etc.It does NOT spend a lot (or even any time) on how to build a deck from a technical perspective. Amazon seems to call it a DIY book or wants to based on tags. It's not.

I was looking for a book with deck ideas and finally found one. This book has several deck design ideas ranging from 1 to 2 story decks, intricate to simple designs, how to incorporate fire features and working around trees. This is a well written book with quality photos and some how-to's for the do-it-yourself'er.I highly recommend this to anybody looking for deck design inspiration.

Book is ok but it lacks substance.

Very informativeIt helped us design our deck at my new house

Many of these decks are out of the reach of most average Americans. They are pretty to look at, but I can tell they'd cost at least in the 20k-30k range which is not an option for us middle class bums. It'd be nice if they incorporated some more reasonable decks showcased on some middle class homes and not just mcmansions. I bought it to get ideas for my 1200 square foot house - which it does; it does give ideas for some techniques you can use to enhance the quality of your deck, like adding routed handrails or using different types of wood (not just pine) and also some basic techniques like how to properly bolt the deck to your house. If anything it's a great coffee table book to refer to from time to time.

I am trying to come up with some ideas for my yard. This book is full of beautiful pictures and concepts...even blueprints.I actually bought this used for $1.59 and it was brand new. You just can't beat that!I see a couple more on sale that inexpensive. Great deal.If my review was helpful, please click on "helpful" below. Thanks! :)

This book looks like ti can be very helpful in the planning for and calculating tools and materials needed for deck construction. There are at least a few tips of the trade the probably would save a lot of time and others that will help you achieve a more creative or professional or securely constructed deck or likely all those benefits.

Some great design ideas. Lots of good ideas for a DIY person or for homeowner to show a builder. Recipient of gift thinks it is great