Sparky is skeptical of his Uncle Keith’s ability to use a circular saw.

My nephew Keith recently bought a house, and is eager to learn as he takes on projects.  The backyard has potential, but the previous owner made some dubious decisions.  Next to the hot tub, there was a low, floating deck.  The deck was built from pressure-treated lumber, but was resting on the ground.

This low-res image shows the layout.

When helping someone on a project, I give my opinion and rationale, then do whatever my friend or family decides.  Keith’s inclination is to stick with the original design. 

Keith wanted to keep the deck the same size, and agreed that the deck should be raised to make it easier to step out of the hot tub and to differentiate the deck from the patio.  This will allow for more ventilation under the deck.

We are using deck blocks and 2×4’s.  The studs are light for a deck, but we have plenty of blocks.  That will put the deck surface at about 10 inches above the patio.  Yesterday, we framed the deck, and will level and do the deck boards today.

Keith has a good assortment of tools, but not much experience.  Now, he is a level 2 circular saw cutter, appreciates quality screws and is familiar with pilot holes.

Sparky waited patiently.  Keith and I talked a lot, and were out to dinner longer than necessary, so Sparky had a very long day.  He fell asleep on the way home, and slept in this morning.

Don’t feel bad for Sparky.  At one point, Sparky wandered off through an open gate.  He did it so casually, that Keith’s cats thought he was allowed to leave.  Sparky sniffed and pissed his way across a few yards.  Since it was a nice day, neighbors were out and able to point us toward my clever beagle.

As always, Sparky was pleased with his stealthy escape and was eager to show me around the neighborhood. 

Sparky won’t be coming along today.  He is an old fella, so will want a lazy day to recover from yesterday’s outing.