Loves

Front deck build  (09/2004)

That old concrete stoop and rusty railing has to go. The grass doesn't grow right along the house either so it's time to improve it. Here's the deck build.

Here's a shot right before I begin my long journey.

Digging those post holes were the HARDEST part of the whole thing. I was sore
for at least a week. Back breaking.

Then the basic framing goes up. Getting a permit from New Berlin cost me $50. Just for their permission to do this? That's robbery.

Here the side steps are going in. Fun fun.

I can for the first time stand on the deck. So proud I am.

One improvement starts a chain reaction of others. The old front screen door is being ripped off here.

8:00 a.m. Saturday morning. Probably about 40 degrees outside. 5,000 screw later....

The deck is almost done and Mandie decides to bring one of the ducks up on the deck. It took a crap of course. Thank you wife.

Almost done. One of the last 60degree days we'll have the year here in November lets me finish up the final details. I'm getting sick of cutting boards and measuring stuff so this is good news.

And here's the finished product. It turned out nice with not too many imperfections considering this was my first major woodworking project. I'm going to put in two nice brick sidewalks but those will have to wait until next summer. I've had it for home improvement projects for this year.