How to Build a Wood Deck
A deck is an extension to a home that adds beauty and provides some extra space to enjoy the outdoors. You can also build a deck freestanding.
Required Materials
- chalk line
- large rivets
- bolts – expansion and carriage
- nails - ring shank and spiral
- post fasteners
- joist hangers
Required Tools
- tape measure
- hand saw
- circular saw
- power drill
- framing square
- combination square
- level
- hammer
Safety Equipment
- dusk mask
- gloves
- goggles
Instructions
- Materials - Initially ensure that all the materials are rust proof. Even though the wood may last you for a good time, rust on other hardware will make the deck degrade faster.
- Layout - Mark out a square using string and batter boards placed into the ground where the deck will be. The string should help you to visualize the approximate size and overall exterior of the completed deck.
- Preparing the Area - Prepare the area using a lawn cutter or spade. The area should be at least a few inches deep and 2’ wider around than the size of the completed deck. Place a sheet of polyethylene over the area to stop weeds from growing into the deck. This sheet can be covered with gravel.
- Header Board - Decide what you will be attaching your deck to. If it is going to be a header board, decide on the height that you will place the deck. The header board should be fixed securely to either the wall or a concrete surface nearby.
- Installing the Posts - Dig holes for the supporting posts that are at least 3’ deep. You may need professional assistance to dig these holes. The postholes will have to be filled with gravel before placing the posts in them. You could also use concrete to set the posts. Use bolts to attach the posts to the concrete while it is still wet.
- Fixing the Beams - Ensure the height of the deck is correct before fixing the beams to the post with nails.
- Connecting the Joists - Joists should be fastened to the building structure with hangers. Prop up the joists using ridge planks and attach them to beams. Deck boards can be fixed with nails. If the wood is very dry, allow some space so that if it gets wet and expands, the surface will not rupture. The appearance of the deck is very important, so make sure that the boards are all in a straight line once they are nailed down.
- Railings and Other Accessories – The railings are not only a decorative piece for your deck, but also a safety factor. Other accessories that can be added are benches and screens.
- Stairs to the Deck - Decide on the gradient of the stairs and the style you want to use. Pre-cut staircases are also available if you want to make the job easier for yourself.