Decks must be built to withstand the elements. This means digging concrete footings and installing posts that are anchored in the ground to prevent frost heave.
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A deck is an outdoor extension of your home, providing a great place to relax and entertain. It is important to build your deck with high-quality materials and ensure it’s securely attached to the house. If you’re planning to hire a contractor to construct your deck, make sure they are qualified and reputable. A professional knows how to install the proper fasteners, supports and joists. In addition, a professional can help you plan and design your deck to suit your needs.
The first step in building a deck is to lay down the foundation. This consists of concrete footings, which are poured into holes you dig in the ground. The size of these footings varies depending on climate, and they should extend below the frost line to prevent shifting as the ground freezes and thaws. The bottom of the footings should also be sloped away from the house to prevent water from collecting near the foundation and causing damage.
You should also consider how much weight your deck will be supported by the footings. If you plan to have a hot tub or heavy furniture on your deck, this may require special support posts or additional reinforcement of the footings. You should also consult your local building department to learn if a permit is required. If so, you’ll need to obtain a permit and have the deck inspected before continuing with construction.
Next, you’ll need to assemble the deck frame. You’ll begin by setting batter boards and marking the locations of the deck’s joists using a plumb bob. You can then set the joists and tee them off with joist hangers. Finally, you’ll need to install the ledger, which is the rim board that attaches to the house itself.
Once the deck frame is assembled, you can begin installing the decking. You’ll want to stain or seal the wood once it is installed, which will protect it from weathering. You’ll also need to lay in any wiring for lights, which should be run through metal conduit to prevent animals from chewing on them and posing a fire hazard.
Designing a Deck
Whether you want to build your own deck or hire a professional contractor, there are a number of things that need to be taken into consideration. These include:
Budget: The amount of money you are willing to spend on a deck will play a role in its size, scope and extra features. If you are building it yourself, the cost of materials will also factor in to your overall price. It is recommended that you obtain quotes from several companies before finalizing your purchase. This will give you a sense of the pricing range for different components and the overall project total cost with labor included.
Location: The location of your home and existing landscaping will influence how your deck can be utilized. Factors such as prevailing winds, sunlight exposure and proximity to outdoor features like pools, hot tubs and grilling areas should be taken into account.
Use a Deck Design Software: Using a computer software program will help you create a visual representation of the deck, making it easier to understand the layout and dimensions. It will also allow you to make adjustments as needed.
Design the Deck to Enhance your Home: Decks can be designed to reflect a unique style or blend with the architecture of your home. Incorporating elements from these structures into your deck design can create a harmonious transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Deck Design for Easy Maintenance: If you plan to use your deck frequently, consider adding features that will be easy to keep clean and free from pests. These may include low-maintenance railings, composite or vinyl decking and durable furniture.
Decks Built for the View: A view is a big draw for many people. If a bulky railing blocks a desirable view, it will detract from the overall appeal of the deck. To overcome this, you can install a railing with thin balusters or even glass panels to allow the view to be enjoyed.
A Deck’s Architectural Harmony: Choose deck materials and colors that align with your home’s exterior to create a cohesive look. This will add to your home’s value and enhance its beauty.
Materials
A deck requires an assortment of materials to be built. Most importantly, you’ll need the materials that will make it structurally sound and safe for people to use. These include the deck boards, which are typically made of either traditional wood or an alternative material. Decks can also require railings, stairs and skirting. The amount of materials needed for these items depends on the design. It’s best to create a list of the items you’ll need for your deck before you visit your home improvement center or lumber yard. Then, you can get the help of an employee to assist you in finding everything you need.
Depending on your budget and the aesthetic you desire, you may choose to build a deck from natural woods like cedar or redwood. These are durable, but must be power-washed and restained every three years to maintain their color and protection from the sun. If you prefer a low-maintenance option, consider composite decking. These are a mixture of recycled plastic and waste wood fibers that look like natural wood. These can last a lifetime with little maintenance, although you should apply a UV protective coating.
You may also opt for rainforest hardwoods, which are dense and rot-resistant. They are usually much more expensive than softwoods, but can add a rich aesthetic to your deck. Ipe, for example, is an exotic wood from Central and South America that’s highly valued for its durability. Unfortunately, the vast majority of this wood is sourced from endangered tropical forests and many buyers are concerned about how this timber is harvested.
Another deck material option is pressure-treated lumber. This is cheaper than other types of lumber and rot-resistant, but it’s not as durable as a natural wood. It’s treated with chemicals that deter insects, inhibit mold and mildew and protect against rot. When working with this type of wood, it’s important to wear a mask and use a saw that’s equipped with a dust collection system to avoid breathing in the harmful chemicals.
Installation
Building a deck requires more than just wood, screws and nails. It takes a thorough understanding of deck anatomy and construction techniques. This is not a project for novice builders, but those who can follow directions carefully can succeed at the task. Having the proper tools can also save time and effort.
The first step in installing a deck is to build the foundation for it. This consists of concrete footings that hold posts, which in turn support the frame. Concrete footings are usually poured in holes that are below grade, but they may rise above ground level for some structures. Footings must be adequately reinforced to resist lateral loads.
Next comes the frame itself, which is made of vertical posts that support the structure of the deck. These are often set below the deck surface, but may be above it to provide a railing and other safety features. The number of posts needed is determined by the size and shape of the deck, as well as local building codes.
Joists, which are horizontal framing members that support the deck floor, are installed alongside beams for a sturdier base. Joists are typically spaced at 16″ on center, although they can be staggered for a more attractive look or to accommodate diagonal decking. Short pieces of lumber, called bridging or blocking, are installed between joists to strengthen the framing and prevent twisting.
Once the rim joists are installed, they are fastened to the ends of the floor joists using joist hangers and galvanized screws. For a more durable finish, it is recommended to use stainless steel fasteners for all attachments. To avoid nail pops, it is important to properly hammer the joist hangers into the ledger and rim joists.
Once the frame is in place, the sheathing and decking can be installed. While the surface of a deck should be left untreated for visual appeal, sheathing and the understructure must be treated or pressure-treated to withstand the elements and rot. Decking is a material that covers the sheathing and can be made of natural or synthetic materials. Wood decking is popular, but other options exist that are less costly upfront and require less maintenance over time.
