Raising The Bar In Your Backyard
Ever wondered how to transform your backyard into a space for family barbecues and relaxing evenings? Or are you curious if building a deck is easier than it seems?
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to build a deck, including planning, designing, and building.
By the end, you’ll know if this is a DIY project or if it’s better to reach out to a local contractor to help with your deck installation.
Quick Guide To Building A Deck In 14 Steps
- Plan Your Deck
- Select Materials and Gather Tools
- Check Permits and Code Compliance
- Lay Out the Deck’s Foundation
- Dig Post Holes and Set Forms
- Pour Concrete and Place Post Anchors
- Install Posts and Beams
- Attach Rim Joists
- Install Inner Joists
- Lay and Secure Deck Boards
- Trim and Smooth Deck Boards
- Install Stairs (If Required)
- Install Railings (If Required)
- Add Finishing Touches
You’ll want to know the different parts of a deck before you start building one.
Planning And Preparation
1. Site Selection And Design
Before you begin your deck project, it’s essential to choose the right location for your outdoor space.
Look for a flat, well-drained area in your yard. You can also consider adjusting slopes by grading the ground.
A retaining wall may be necessary if you’re building on uneven terrain.
Take natural shade into account, whether it’s from nearby trees or shrubs, and ensure easy access from the house. Once you’ve settled on the location, draw a rough deck plan that determines the deck size, height, and number of posts or footings.
Do you want to check out some deck design ideas and tips?
2. Material Choices
When it comes to decking materials, you’ll need to decide between composite decking, pressure-treated lumber, or another material.
Composite decking offers a clean, low-maintenance look. They are installed with hidden fasteners for a more seamless look.
Pressure-treated lumber is a more budget-friendly option that can be stained in any color but requires regular upkeep to protect against the elements. You can also choose one of the other wood decking types.
Gather essential tools like a circular saw, power drill, tape measure, joist hangers, and screws.
Composite vs. wood decking: which is better for your deck?
3. Permits And Code Compliance
Before you start digging or laying any boards, check with your local building authorities to see if permits are required for your deck-building project.
Many regions have specific regulations concerning deck height, railing, and the depth of the deck footings. Make sure your deck design complies with these deck building codes to avoid future issues.
Preparing The Site
4. Laying Out The Deck’s Foundation
The first major task in building a deck is marking the perimeter using batter boards and mason’s string lines. This helps define where your deck footings will go. Be sure to square the corners using the 3-4-5 method for accuracy.
Once the layout is complete, mark the spots where your pier or footing holes will be dug using spray paint. These footings will serve as the foundation for your deck frame and posts.
5. Digging Post Holes And Setting Forms
Using a posthole digger or auger, dig holes for your posts to the required depth. Make sure they’re below the frost line if you live in areas with cold winters.
For added stability, insert concrete tubing forms into the holes and level them. Ensure the top edge of each form is even. This will give your concrete piers a solid foundation and help support your deck.
Installing Footings, Posts, And Beams
6. Pouring Concrete And Placing Post Anchors
With your holes ready and tubing forms in place, mix your concrete and pour it into the forms.
As the concrete begins to set, place post anchor bolts into the center of each form. Leave enough of the bolt exposed above the concrete for securing your posts.
Allow the concrete to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before setting post bases.
7. Cutting And Attaching Deck Posts
Cut your deck posts a few inches taller than your final desired height.
Attach each post to its base with post-base hardware, such as nails or screws.
For flush beams, position the beams on top of the posts. Adjust their level with metal strapping if needed.
8. Attaching Beams To Posts
Secure the beams to the posts using post-base hardware, ensuring everything is square and level.
Beams will act as the primary support for your deck frame and must be well-aligned to avoid future issues with your decking boards.
Take your time to double-check alignment and make adjustments as necessary.
Framing The Deck
9. Attaching Rim Joists And Creating The Perimeter
The deck frame comes together as you attach rim joists to the posts. These joists will create the perimeter of the deck and provide support for the decking boards.
Use galvanized screws or nails to secure the rim joists. Make sure each one is level.
After attaching the rim joists, cut the posts flush with the top of the joists to ensure a smooth surface for the decking.
10. Installing Inner Joists
Once the perimeter is established, measure and mark joist spacing on the rim joists, typically 12, 16, or 24 inches apart.
Install joist hangers at these marks and place the inner joists into them. Ensure that the joists are crowned upwards to prevent sagging. Make sure they are level with the rim joists.
Installing Deck Boards
11. Laying And Fastening Deck Boards
Now that your deck frame is complete, it’s time to lay the decking boards.
Start by laying the first board parallel to the house, leaving a 1/8 to 3/16-inch gap between the boards for drainage and airflow. Deck boards should be installed perpendicular to the joists.
Secure each deck board to the joists with screws or hidden fasteners. Confirm they are aligned straight and evenly spaced.
12. Trimming And Smoothing Deck Boards
After laying all your decking boards, you’ll likely have some overhang along the edges. Measure and mark where to trim the excess, then use a circular saw to make precise cuts.
To give your deck a polished look, smooth the edges with a router or sander.
Adding Stairs, Railings, And Finishing Touches
13. Installing Stairs (If Required)
If your deck is more than 30 inches off the ground, you’ll need to install stairs.
Start by calculating the rise and run to make sure the steps are even.
Attach stringers to the deck frame and install the treads and risers securely.
Ensure that the stairs are well-anchored to both the deck and the ground.
14. Installing Railings (If Required)
Attach railing posts at the deck’s corners and along the perimeter as needed.
Secure top and bottom rails between the posts.
Install balusters, making sure they meet local code requirements (usually less than 4 inches apart).
Discover more about the process for building deck railings.
15. Applying Finishing Touches
To protect your new deck from moisture and UV damage, apply an exterior wood stain or weather sealer.
If you want to enhance your deck’s aesthetic, consider adding lattice screens, privacy panels, or outdoor lighting.
These finishing touches will elevate the overall look of your deck and make it a perfect outdoor space for entertaining or relaxation.
DIY vs. pro deck installation.
Or, Reach Out To Hard Decks To Help You Craft The Deck You’re Envisioning
When it comes to deck installation, Hard Decks has the expertise to turn your vision into reality. Our team can handle every step, ensuring a durable, beautiful deck that elevates your outdoor space.
Ready to get started? Fill out our contact form today, or give us a call to make your dream deck a reality!