by CBRealtor

Created on: August 14, 2008

Building a deck can be accomplished by most do-it-yourself homeowners. In most cases you can pick up a book or video and get the basic concepts before you even begin. However, there are certain steps that should be taken ahead of time to prepare for such a project.

The first step of the process should be to visualize and draw on paper what you want your deck to look like. Include dimensions on your drawing (This will help with step two). Next you will want to search your towns building code, or consult with the building department to find out specifications that you will need to follow (Ex. How many feet per footing and how deep they need to be). In most cases, the material they give you will greatly help in your planning process. Some towns have tougher codes to follow than others, so always consult your build inspector before beginning to do any work, and always obtain a permit before you begin.

Now the basics:

Each deck contains the same parts
Footings - To support the outside beam.
Beam & Ledger - To hang the joists.
Joists - To support the structure and to attach the flooring to
Rails & Stairs - these will vary by design and size, and depending on your project you could have both or neither.

You want to get a few scrap pieces of wood and some colored string and build a template on your property with the layout you want to use. This should look like your drawing that you used to get your permit. Mark off the locations of each footing and start digging. Once the footings are at the right depth, mix and pour concrete in. Don't back fill the whole until the inspector approves the depth of the footings.

Next you want to attach the ledger to the house using bolts. You may need to mark a line on the house and cut away wood or siding so that the ledger board sits flush against the house. As soon as that is complete you want to secure the beam to the footings. Then you can begin hanging the joists off of the ledger and beam. Remember to keep the joists a minimum of 16" apart, on center (That means that the middle of one joist is 16" from the middle of the joist next to it).

Once all of the joists are hung you can now begin laying the floor. I have been using deck screws to install floors for quite some time now, because they are coated and won't rust, plus you will not get nail popping up. Make sure to install the floor boards as close to one another as you possibly can. After about six months of weathering they will naturally separate.

Hang your railing and stairs and you now have a completed deck that you can enjoy.

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