Deck Designs: Ideas for Raised Decks

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Raised Deck Basics

Raised decks are common because most houses sit on foundation walls that position the main-level floor several feet above grade. Raised decks require railing systems for safety and stairs to make the deck accessible to the yard.

Raised decks have foundation posts that are exposed to view when the structure is complete. The structural members can be concealed with foundation plantings--such as shrubs--or with skirting, which usually consists of lath or lattice panels cut to fit between the deck surface and the ground.

Overlooking a steep hillside, this upper-level deck provides an unobstructed view of the lush new garden and Seattle's Puget Sound.