Looking for tips on how to build my deck over a short man-made river with a fountain to circulate water on one end and a fire pit in the middle. I want to be able to walk over the whole thing so it needs to be covered in a clear material so I can see the river.

that's darned pricey, and your shoes will scratch it up in no time. lexan in 4x8s of a half or 3/4 inch, suitable for dasher boards, is probably a couple hundred bucks per.

how about having Bogus Falls and Fake Creek run diagonally under the deck, curve about a garden, and tuck back under for the recovery and pump area? don't forget to build an access way behind a gate so you can paw out the wet rotting leaves and replace the pump every spring and fall

or have a deck exit like a little arched foot bridge that goes over Fake Creek into the garden?

because of ember issues that set decks on fire, you will need to find a gas firepit kit and get its installation requirements online. there is going to have to be a minimum fireproof area around and above it, and your local code guys have to look at your plans and approve them to be safe.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: swschrad,