Deck Building Basics

In my previous article, "planning for a new deck," I outlined the steps for planning for a new deck. This article takes the process one step further. We'll look at how to get started actually building your deck. By this time, I will assume that you have your building permit in hand, a good set of plans, and a materials list. If you don't have a material list, simply take your plan to your nearest home center or building supply store and have them create one for you. Most lumber yards can actually arrange for delivery of all your materials at one time including all the nails and screws are you will need. This can be quite handy on large projects or if you don't own a truck or a trailer. The lumber yard will bring all the parts and pieces you will need to build your new deck.

The first place to start, is to set some posts for your deck to rest on. Were I live in the Northeast, we have to deal with the frost and free cycle of winter. When I received my building permit, the code officer made sure to point out that all posts must be secured in country at least 36 inches below the surface of the ground. This will ensure that when the ground freezes the posts of the deck will not heave. Check with your local zoning office to find out what your specifications are for setting posts.

Renting a post hole digger makes setting the posts much easier, especially if you live in an area with a lot of playing or a lot of stone in your soil. I was able to dig a half a dozen holes in less than an hour. Digging the same number of holes my hand would've taken me at least half a day so the few dollars I spent on the post hole digger rental was well worth it.

Next, a port some stoning concrete makes into the holes and set the posts. My plan called for 4x4 posts. Your plans may be different. After the posts were in and let the concrete cure according to the directions on the package. I then nailed 2 x 2 joists to the side of the House and around the perimeter of the deck. I used metal choice hangers to hang all the internal joists. You can also tell nailed them but metal choice hangers are stronger and easier to use than trying to toenail large lumber.

There are lots of different types of taking you can use on top of your deck. I choose simple pressure treated lumber. To attach the deck boards to the joists you can use either nails or screws. If you use nails, make sure you use special spiral nails. These help prevent nails from popping. Deck screws are preferable as they are stronger but they are much more expensive than nails when laying out the decking, it is easier to let the deck boards run long and trim them down later once the entire deck surface is finished. When all the deck boards or laid, simply take a circular saw, and cut all the ends off the deck.

For a finished look, attach a skirt board to the exposed edges of the decking and over the rim joists. The last thing to do, if needed, would be to add railing, and or steps. However, these basics should get you started.

Dean Novosat is an avid do-it-yourselfer and remodeler. He writes for http://build-decks-patios.com, http://for-gadget-guys.com, and http://www.the-kitchen-designer.com.

---

Buying The Right Comforter For Your Bed

Putting the right comforter on your bed can make the... Read More

Imported Tools vs. Brand Name - Are They As Good?

So you are looking for hand or power tools on... Read More

When Is It Time To Call The Professional?

For most Do-It-Yourself (DIY) home project managers, the most difficult... Read More

10 Tips for Working With a Contractor

This is the year you're going all out. You're going... Read More

New Tax Breaks for Energy Efficient Home Improvements

If you would like to make your existing home more... Read More

Air Sanders: Forget Electric, Go Air!

An air sander is a common air tool often overlooked... Read More

10 Things To Consider Before Planning And Installing A New Bathroom

Whether you want to install a new bathroom or make... Read More

Choosing a Vinyl Replacement Window Contractor

Whenever I write an article, it's usually tailored to the... Read More

How to Choose a Freezer for Home

The average household freezer is a silent slave. It operates... Read More

Replacing Steel Casement Windows (Part 2)

Last week, I explained how to remove your old steel... Read More

Designing Great-looking Window Coverings on a Budget

Window coverings are one of the most important focal points... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Is Todays Popular Quest For Contemporary Design The New Bad Taste

Can you remember when people used to install slatted louvre... Read More

Building Permits and Inspections

Probably the most intimidating part of building your own house... Read More

Feng Shui Your Home, Work and Life For Balance and Harmony

Feng Shui describes the communication that takes place every day... Read More

Hardwood Floor Care Will Keep Your Hardwood Looking Fantastic

Hardwood is still the homeowner's favorite choice of flooring and... Read More

Clearing the Air on What to Look for in an Air Purifier

If you are dedicated to improving the indoor air quality... Read More

Kitchen Design ? No Need to Do It Alone

You can't opt out of the process altogether, though, because... Read More

?5 Fast Ideas to Freshen the Look of your Room

"Company's coming and my place doesn't look right?"You know how... Read More

Heat Up the Hot Tub from 20,000 Feet

Homeowners are getting high-tech when it comes to controlling the... Read More

Building Your Dream Home ? Part 2

Razing the CottageWith new house plans and permits in hand,... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Illegal Building Works - Is there an Upside?

Many times throughout the year we are called in to... Read More

You Get What You Pay for when it Comes to Above Ground Pools

When you think about an above ground pool do you... Read More

Planning Your In-Wall Speaker System

So you've finally decided to get your favorite music throughout... Read More

Designing With Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are suited to both casual and formal environments;... Read More

Electrical Savings System; Save up to 40% on Your Electric Bill Every Month

Once a month there's an electric bill coming in the... Read More

Daydreaming About Your Home Makeover Projects

Most of us enjoy daydreaming about our perfect home. Do... Read More

Advice on Waterproofing Your Deck

Even if you undertook the task of building your own... Read More

Motion Detector Technology

Motion detectors are in use all around us in both... Read More

So You?ve Put an Offer on a Home. What?s Next?

You've finally found the home of your dreams, 3 bedrooms,... Read More

Tips and Suggestions To Help You Plan and Build Your Own Log Home

Log Cabin Homes: They have come a long way. Here... Read More

Materials For Building Window Shutters

Shopping for window shutters can become confusing because of the... Read More

Interior Design For Bargain Hunters

Interior design for bargain hunters is the new fashionable item... Read More

Create a Luxurious Laundry Room

Give your home a luxurious feel with a beautiful laundry... Read More