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Multiple problems to correct with the existing deck (shown here partially removed). The stairs were a problem as was the roof overhang support. The challenge: Remove and replace my sagging, poorly-built front porch, and bolster a support to hold up part of a roof overhang.

The team: Yours truly and a retired neighbor who is handy at these sort of things.

The timing: This summer, after work, in between rain showers, and whenever my neighbor wasn't otherwise enjoying retirement.

Demolition was rapid as the existing deck was already sagging and leaning. Made from an earlier generation of manufactured product, the decking was stained and the railings were never connected correctly. What's more, the entire structure was insufficiently attached to the house and foundation.

My neighbor and I spent a lot of time bolting and screwing in place a frame to support one of the porch railings. A second 2x8 was bolted onto this structure on the plant side of the image.My neighbor and I spent lots of time building and reinforcing the new deck structure. Headers were bolted to the house and 2 x 8 lumber was screwed together and bolted in place to frame the deck structure.

As a temporary measure, we installed a jack to hold up the roof overhang support. Donning hard hats, we installed twin 2 x 8 joists, then lifted the vertical support and overhang around 1 in. We set the vertical post on the deck floor where it is now fully supported.

Recent-generation decking allows for seamless construction, with no visible screws holding the deck in place. Makes a couple of amateurs look like pros!

The original stairs were attached at right angles to the deck, and visitors ended up in the garden rather than on the sidewalk, which approaches the house at an angle. The rebuilt stairs are flush with the deck, but curve slightly as they descend so that they join the sidewalk head-on.

Total elapsed time: Around 3 weeks.

Total expense: Less than $4,500, including beer.

Left: While twin 2 x 8 joists were cut and set into place a jack temporarily help up the roof overhang. Right: A few details remain, but the deck is largely completed and ready for use. The stairs meet the sidewalk and the roof overhang is at last well supported.