One of the constant challenges of homeownership is deciding which problems can be fixed DIY-style and which require professional assistance. Leaky roof? I’m going to call a professional. Rip out some gross carpet? We can handle that.

Repairing the modest deck on the back of my house falls somewhere between. I’m qualified to slap paint on it now and then. But a few years back when some boards began rotting, I was faced with a decision: Do I hire someone who actually knows what they’re doing, or do I try to do it myself?

Frugal guy that I am, I chose the latter approach, which means this summer I’m in my third round of prying out deteriorating planks and replacing them. As a bonus, this year it’s also time to upgrade the now splintery built-in benches. I’m not exactly a skilled or motivated DIY-er, but with help from my kids (who really like the destructive part of the process) and an Eau Claire-based home improvement chain (thanks, 11% rebate!), I’m aiming to get the project done before too much of summer is gone.

What then? Obviously, as you’ll see throughout the pages of this issue, there are countless reasons to get out of the house this summer in the Chippewa Valley. But, if you don’t mind, I’m hoping to spend at least a little time enjoying the warmth of summer on my new(ish) deck.