A: Building a deck on ground level is something a person with some experience can do by themselves. It may not turn out looking professionally done but they can get a deck that will serve their needs.

You have a different problem, you want this deck 9' in the air and you have no experience. Every year there are articles in the newspaper about decks falling down with people on them. It isn't too bad if the deck falls from one foot, but if it falls from 9', someone is going to get hurt.

There are numerous issues dealing with attaching the deck to the house, installing proper foundations, stabilizing the deck so it doesn't sway from side to side, and securing the railing so no one leans on it and finds themselves unexpectedly on the ground below. And don't forget, you have to build this structure 9' in the air; there is no way you could build this alone.

These are real and serious issues. I would strongly suggest that you find a professional contractor to do this job.

This information is brought to you by Don Powell of Powell Building Corporation in Mt. Laurel, NJ.

To locate some professionals to do this for you, visit Home Advisor, type "Install a Deck" in the search box and submit a service request so you can be matched with the ideal service professionals in your area.

Good luck with your project!

by Kathy Maynard, reprinted courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com