How does your code looks like then, when you slice it up.
If you are going to make a static site, use xHTML. It's like HTML, but combined with XML. It's a more cleaner and correct way of making your pages.
Also use CSS for your layout, it's the only way of making your layout. Please don't use tables! They are not designed for such thing.
http://www.hotdesign.com/seybold/
Validate also your xHTML and CSS.
Have fun.
If you have troubles, try looking here:
http://www.w3schools.com/