How to Build a Deck in Steps
How to Build a Deck in Steps
1. Check local deck building codes for details
You can learn permitted sizes for railings and other important information.
These codes are to keep your deck and the people on it safe.
2. Choose your railing material
While you can choose from a variety of different materials, some need special installation.
So we’re going to use wood for this example.
Pressure treated lumber is a common material for decks because it is sturdy and durable.
It isn’t hard to work with either.
You can also paint or stain it to make it look even more amazing.
Checkout detailed plans on how to build a deck & woodworking plans
3. Determine how many posts you’ll need
Start with where you want the first post to be.
Choose a measurement of 6′ or less and make a mark where the posts will be.
Count the total amount of posts.
4. Cut your posts to code size
The post’s ends will be even with the bottoms of the rim and end joists (the sideways boards under the deck).
All railings must be 3′ or higher.
Cut posts a few inches higher than you want the railing to be.
You’ll want some of the post to hang down on the side of the deck. This is where you will be attaching the post to the deck.
*This is also where you can add a finish to the posts if you want.
5. Install the posts
First, use your post level to ensure the post is straight.
Then drill pilot holes for the screws/bolts through the post and joist board.
Put wood glue on the part you’re attaching to the deck.
Finally, drill the screws or bolts in.
For screws make the holes half the size.
For bolts make the holes only a little smaller than the bolts.
This should keep the wood from splintering and becoming useless.
You’ll repeat this process around the entire deck.
6. Mark the railing height
You will have to have a minimum height, usually between 3-3 ½ feet.
7. Double check the distance between posts
8. Attach balusters and handrail pieces together
You can apply finish to them first if you’d like.
They must be 4” apart or less.
Take the thin strip of wood and measure the distance you want the balusters to be from both ends.
So if you want them 4” apart, measure 4” in from both of the short sides.
Screw all of the balusters in place with 1 ½” – 2” screws.
Attach another wood strip to the other end of the balusters.
9. Screw the bottom rail to the posts
Set it up on some scraps of wood 4” high or shorter.
Screw in 3” – 4” screws to attach the board to the post.
10. Attach balusters to bottom rail
Use shorter screws that won’t poke out the bottom.
11. Attach the top rail like you did the bottom
Repeat steps 8-11 for each section.
Komentarze
Prześlij komentarz