Do It Yourself - Build A Deck

All Decked Up: What Goes Into A Deck?

All Decked Up: What Goes Into A Deck?

This is a quick look at the components that make up the basic structure of a deck.

Building a deck can be a complicated project for a newcomer to do-it-yourself home improvement. Still, it can be carried out without much difficulty with proper planning and measuring. You must also make sure your plans are in line with local building requirements or if any special permits are required.

When you're thinking of how to build a deck, you have to ensure that it fulfils the functions for which you built it, is structurally stable, and is aesthetically pleasing. Basically, the structure, working from the top down, consists of railing, decking, joists, beams, posts and footings.

The railing and decking material are what makes the deck visually appealing. The railing and decking, as well as their supporting structures have to be put together with good material to ensure stability and longevity. All wood used in the construction must be pressure-treated. Pressure-treated wood will not rot and cause rust to develop as a result. All metal components should be either rust-proof or hot-dipped zinc-coated to prevent rusting.

The size and type of decking used helps you calculate the distance between the joists underneath. Generally, a distance of 16 inches between joists is used when decking material is 2 inches thick. In turn, the size of the joists is determined by the space between the beams beneath them. Distances between beams of 8 feet usually require 2' x 6' or 2' x 8' joists. The size of the beams is determined by the spacing between the posts, usually 4' x 6' or 4' x 8' for spacing of up to 6 feet.

Beams can be constructed out of separate pieces but the builder has to ensure that there is a post beneath each joint to provide support. Post dimensions are usually 4' x 4' and must be strong enough to support the decking as well as a large number of people and furniture if needed. The height of the posts varies with each project's distance from the ground.

Mark out the construction area with string and batter-boards to ensure all lines are squared. You will also need to remove some sod, up to 3 inches down, before you drive in the posts. A sheet of polyethylene film should be used to cover the area to prevent unwanted plants from growing through the decking. Posts are embedded through slits in the film.

by: Sadie Hurst

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