Deck

Brad and I have had a deck in the plans since before we built the house, and we finally did it! There is still lots to go, but here's our project in photos so far :)

Step 1: Beat the daylights out of an existing concrete step. 

 Step 2: Move all concrete out of the way. Literally, pick it all up and channel your inner chain-gang mentality. Pick up rock, move rock, pick up more rock, move more rock. Feel like you are making no progress.

Step 3: Apply for a permit... wait a week and find out that your particular design does not require a permit.

Step 4: Rent an auger. Sorry guys, no photos of this beast. But it worked great, we (and by "we" I mean Brad) were able to dig 18 giant holes that would become the supports for the deck.

Step 5: Fill all holes with concrete. Enlist the help of all family members.

Step 6: Build a giant supporting structure that no one will ever see again.

Be envious of this guy the whole time

This is landscape fabric. (Note the giant pile of broken up concrete in the background)

Step 7: Complete underside of structure, and start putting on the decking. Do not settle for a square deck, insist on having angled corners for a better design, attempt to finish before another Montana snow storm hits.

Before and after!