1) What is the min/max gap I should plan for the deck boards to the house?
2) Should the deck surface be level or have a slope for water drainage? How much of a slope?
3) What's your opionion about finishing off the sides? Latice will allow air flow to help keep the underdeck dry and keep animals out. However, I'm concerned about strong winds actually lifting the deck (picture the flying house on Wisard of Oz and the deck landing on my neighbor - maybe not a bad idea...). Or should it be solid wood?
Thanks...

1) You want your gap to be about 1/8" to 1/4" from the house

2) You will want the deck to be level, the water drainage will come from gaps in the surface boards.

3) You need not worry about latice causing your deck to go up and away. That powerful of wind would send your entire house into your neighbors yard and at that point, you'd both be more concerned about the house. Latice is just to "holey" to be a factor.

Deckman