The vertical piece between two stair steps. Shade Structure:

A masonry post. Piers often serve as above-grade footings for posts and often are made of pre-cast concrete. Post:

A length of board, that is horizontally attached to the side of a house and holds up one edge of a deck. Linear Feet:

The amount of weight a deck is designed to support. Most deck designs call for a live load of 60 pounds per square foot. Low-Voltage Lighting:

The label given to a standard piece of lumber. For example, 2x4 is the name for a rough- cut piece of about 2x4 inches. It is then finished by planing and sometimes sanding it down to its actual dimensions (1 7/16" x 3 1/2"). On Center:

The below-ground support of a deck's post, usually made from concrete. Grade:

A pre-manufactured metal piece typically attached to a ledger or beam to support a joist. Joist hangers should be galvanized. Joists:

The boards used to cover rim joists and end joists. Also called "skirt". Fasteners:

A construction method that involves extending the joists beyond the support beam or the support beam beyond the posts. Cap Rail:

One of a series of vertical supports used between posts of a railing. Also called a spindle. Building Codes: