Building Decks: A Step-by-step OverviewDeck-building is a project you’ll tackle in stages, no matter what design you choose. Before you begin construction, review the photos on these two pages. They outline the basic procedure you’ll want to follow when building your deck. The chapters to follow will explore each of these stages extensively.
Be sure to gather your tools and materials before you begin the project, and arrange to have a helper available for the more difficult stages. Check with local utilities for the location of underground electrical, telephone, or water lines before digging the footings. Apply for a building permit, where required, and make sure a building inspector has approved the deck design before beginning work.
The time it takes to build a deck depends on the size and complexity of the design as well as your building skills. If you’re comfortable using tools and start with thorough, accurate plans, you should be able to complete a single-level deck in a few weekends.
Install a ledger to anchor the deck to the house and to serve as reference for laying out footings (pages 70 to 75). Use batterboards and mason’s strings to locate footings, and check for square by measuring diagonals (page 75).
Pour concrete post footings (pages 76 to 79), and install metal post anchors (pages 81 to 83). Set and brace the posts, attach them to the post anchors, and mark posts to show where the beam will be attached (page 85).
Fasten the beam to the posts (pages 86 to 89). Install the outside joists and header joist using galvanized nails (page 92).
Install metal joist hangers on the ledger and header joist, then hang the remaining joists (pages 90 to 95). Most decking patterns require joists that are spaced 16" on center.
Lay decking boards, and trim them with a circular saw (pages 128 to 139). If desired for appearance, cover pressure-treated header and outside joists with redwood or cedar facing boards (page 130).
Build the deck stairs. Stairs provide access to the deck and establish traffic patterns.
Install a railing around the deck and stairway (page 160). A railing adds a decorative touch and may be required on any deck that is more than 30" above the ground. If desired, finish the underside of the deck (page 210).
