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You can nail or screw composite decking, but 3-inch decking screws are the better fastener choice. Unlike nails, decking screws won’t back out of the composite material over time. There’s also little danger of splitting composite material when driving screws, so you don’t need to pre-drill holes unless otherwise recommended by your decking manufacturer.

The best direction for a gate to swing depends on its location and purpose, but swinging inward is the general rule. An inward swing is often considered safer, prevents the gate from opening into public spaces like a sidewalk, and may be required by local building codes.

There are exceptions and specific considerations. If your property is on a slope, an inward swing might not be possible. For a deck gate, it's safest to have it swing away from any steps. In a backyard, the direction can be a matter of preference, though an inward swing can be helpful when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

Regardless of direction, ensure the gate can open fully without hitting any objects or blocking spaces. While an inward swing is standard, a gate that can swing both in and out offers the most flexibility if your setup allows for it.

Local building codes don’t specify the number of steps a deck can have before a railing is required, mainly because stair height varies widely. Most areas require decks 30 inches or higher to have a railing. While not exact, that roughly equates to four to seven steps.

In most cases, there should be a small gap between the house and the deck, usually no more than ½ to ¾ of an inch. This space allows water and moisture to flow through instead of pooling against the side of your house. It also lets flashing protect your siding from runoff, which is one of the most common issues with decks.