My thanks for the comments,we wouldn't do it if we did not enjoy it. As for the door, look at the door sill and you can tell. I believe the new doors comes with a sill thats about 2" tall to accomadate the floor height. Someone correct me if I'm wrong. The outside deck should be even with the bottom of the sill. Install the rim joist 1 1/2" under the sill. Don't forget to install flashing at the house. Come back if you have more questions. I sure there will be a lot of post on this one. Ron J.