Solar post cap lights
An easy glow on your railing posts with no wiring.
Tip: measure your post sleeve first. Caps are sized to fit specific posts, and the wrong size won't seat.
See options on AmazonFinish your new deck
The small things that make a new deck feel done, and the ones that protect the boards you just paid for.
Stair riser lights
Low-voltage lights on the stair risers make steps safe at night.
Tip: easiest to plan before the deck is built, so the wiring can run through the framing.
See options on AmazonOutdoor rug
Defines the seating area and softens the space.
Tip: choose a breathable polypropylene rug. Rubber or latex backing can trap moisture and discolor composite boards.
See options on AmazonPlanters with feet
Flowers and herbs without the water stains.
Tip: keep pots raised off the boards so water drains and doesn't sit under them.
See options on AmazonGrill mat
Catches grease drips and stray embers under the grill.
Tip: grease is one of the toughest stains to get out of any deck board. A mat is cheap insurance.
See options on AmazonFurniture leg caps
Protects boards from scratches when chairs slide around.
Tip: pick soft, non-staining caps sized to your chair legs.
See options on AmazonPatio furniture covers
Keeps cushions and frames looking new through the off season.
Tip: covers with vents let moisture escape so you don't get mildew underneath.
See options on AmazonDeck care & winter
A little care once or twice a year keeps a deck looking new for a long time. Always check your decking brand's care guide first.
Composite deck cleaner
For spring cleanup and removing everyday grime.
Tip: use a cleaner made for composite, and test it in a hidden spot first.
See options on AmazonSoft-bristle deck brush
Scrubs in the grooves without scratching the surface.
Tip: brush along the length of the boards, never across them.
See options on AmazonPlastic snow shovel
The right shovel for composite decks in a Michigan winter.
Tip: metal blades and edges scratch composite. Shovel with the boards, not across them.
See options on AmazonDeck-safe ice melt
Keeps stairs and walkways safe when it freezes.
Tip: check your decking brand's winter guide for which ice melts it approves, and sweep up leftovers in spring.
See options on AmazonWood deck stain & sealer
For pressure-treated and cedar decks that need regular protection.
Tip: let a new pressure-treated deck dry out before staining. Water should soak in, not bead up.
See options on AmazonPressure washer
Speeds up cleaning big decks, siding and patios.
Tip: use a wide fan tip, keep your distance, and check your decking warranty for pressure limits.
See options on AmazonThe DIY tool kit
The tools we reach for on every job. Start with these and you can handle most weekend projects around the house.
Drill & impact driver combo
The first power tools anyone should own.
Tip: pick one battery brand and stay with it. Every tool you add after that is cheaper.
See options on AmazonImpact driver bit set
Impact-rated bits last far longer than standard ones.
Tip: most deck screws use star (Torx) bits. Keep spares, they wear out.
See options on AmazonCircular saw
Cuts framing lumber and deck boards cleanly.
Tip: a fine-tooth blade gives much cleaner cuts on composite boards.
See options on AmazonSpeed square
Square cuts, angles and stair layout in one cheap tool.
Tip: it doubles as a saw guide for dead-straight crosscuts.
See options on Amazon25 ft tape measure
The tool you'll use most. Get a good one.
Tip: a wide blade with long standout makes measuring alone much easier.
See options on AmazonLaser distance measurer
Measure a room or yard in seconds, by yourself.
Tip: great for planning projects and figuring out material before you shop.
See options on Amazon4 ft level
For posts, beams, shelves and anything that needs to be right.
Tip: check a level by flipping it end for end. The bubble should read the same.
See options on AmazonChalk line
Snap straight lines for board ends, cuts and layout.
Tip: use blue chalk for layout. Red chalk is permanent and stains.
See options on AmazonBar clamps
An extra set of hands for gluing, cutting and holding boards.
Tip: a mix of small and long clamps covers almost everything.
See options on AmazonDeck board straightener
Pulls bowed boards straight so gaps stay even.
Tip: saves good boards that would otherwise end up in the scrap pile.
See options on AmazonFolding sawhorses
A work table anywhere, and they fold flat in the garage.
Tip: lay a sheet of plywood on top and you've got a full workbench.
See options on AmazonKnee pads
Your knees will thank you on any deck or flooring project.
Tip: soft caps won't mark finished surfaces.
See options on AmazonSafety glasses & hearing protection
Cheap, simple, and non-negotiable when you're cutting.
Tip: keep a pair right next to the saw so you never skip them.
See options on AmazonStud finder
Find framing before you hang anything heavy.
Tip: confirm with a small nail in a spot that will be covered.
See options on AmazonHoliday lights on the deck
Decorate the railings without damaging them, and without running extension cords everywhere.
Solar string lights
Warm light along the railing with no outlet needed.
Tip: place the solar panel where it gets afternoon sun.
See options on AmazonLight clips for railings
Hang lights and garland without nails or staples.
Tip: never nail or staple into composite railing. It voids many warranties.
See options on AmazonOutdoor timer
Lights turn on at dusk and off at bedtime, automatically.
Tip: choose one rated for outdoor use, with a weatherproof cover.
See options on Amazon