Building a deck yourself can be an easy, cost-effective way to add some extra living space and value to your home. If you would rather go for a professional then get free quotes from deck professionals near you. Whether you want to build your own deck for entertaining guests or for enjoying quality time in the backyard with family, this guide will show you how to do it right. In order to build a deck, here’s what you need:
> Lumber, preferably pressure-treated pine or cedar
> Joist hangers and decking screws
> A power drill
> Exterior wood sealer and sealant
> Flashing tape and caulk in appropriate colors for your deck's composite materials (if you choose to use those)
You'll also need some basic carpentry skills. But don't worry—with a little guidance, you’ll be able to build your own outdoor oasis in just a few weekends! Let’s get started...
The first step is to measure the area where you want your deck. This will help you determine how much lumber you'll need to purchase. Once that's done, map out the size of the deck using stakes and string or chalk lines. It’s also a good idea to draw up a detailed plan on paper describing where each board will go in order to have everything ready before you start constructing the frame. You can find detailed instructions for this process online or from guides at your local home improvement store.
Once you’ve got all of your materials set aside and your plans finished, it’s time to dig some holes for your deck posts. Make sure these are deep enough so that they sit about halfway into the ground. Use a post-hole digger or power auger to speed up the process, and then fill the holes with gravel to keep water out of your deck's foundation.
Next, create an outer frame for your deck using 2x8s and attach them to the posts using joist hangers. The best way to do this is by screwing each board in place until they're secure and square. Keep checking back on your measurements as you go so that everything will line up when it’s time to add the deck boards. When all four sides are complete, use a level to make sure everything is even before you start completing the top surface of your deck.
Once you've added the upper part of your deck's frame, it’s time to install the decking boards. This is the part where you have to get a little bit creative. Different types of lumber and even composite materials will require different mounting techniques. Just make sure that all of your screws are driven in at an angle so they don't pop through the top of your deck down below.
At this point, you should also add any railing posts or extra support beams as needed according to your plan. Depending on whether or not you need a handrail for safety purposes, you may want to include one right away or add it later once the rest of your deck surface is complete.
From there, you can use exterior wood sealer and sealant over every surface of your deck to keep water out and extend its lifespan. Be sure to use the right colors for whichever materials you have on your deck, whether it’s made from wood or composite boards.
Finally, add some finishing touches like landscaping stones or flower boxes along the edges of your deck to make it perfect! With a little bit of elbow grease and some basic carpentry skills, you'll be able to create a customized space for relaxing or entertaining in no time at all.
2021-06-19
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