How to Build a Wooden Deck

A platform deck is an additional extension to a residence that enhances it overall beauty and gives you some space to relax outdoors. You can also construct a wooden deck that is not connected to your home.

MATERIALS NEEDED IN CONSTRUCTING A WOODEN DECK

The materials needed are big rivets, chalk line, expansion and carriage bolts, nails (spiral and ring shank), post fasteners and joist hangers.

TOOLS

The tools needed are tape measure, circular saw, hand saw, drill, combination square, framing square, hammer and level, dusk mask, safety goggles and gloves.

STEPS IN CREATING A WOODEN DECK

Check if all the materials for your project are rust resistant. The wood may last for a long time but the presence of rust in other materials will make the whole thing break down faster than expected. Create a square using the string boards in the ground where the set-up will be place. The string will help you imagine the size and look of your project.

Use a grass cutter to prepare the location. The deck area should be two inches wide and two or more inches deep. Use polyethylene to prevent grass from ruining your project. You can also gravel to cover the polyethylene. You also need to decide what to place in your deck. If you want a header board, you need to determine the height that you will install in the set-up. It should be firmly installed to the wall or a solid area nearby.

Create three inches holes for the posts. You may need to ask for assistance to create the post holes. Fill the holes with gravel before installing the wooden posts inside them. You can also use cement mix to strengthen the posts. Install the wooden posts to the concrete by using bolts before it hardens. Check if the platform’s height is correct before using nails to secure the beams to the wooden post.

Use hangers to secure the joists to the structure. Use the ridge planks to strengthen the joists and connect them to the platform beams. The boards can be secured with nails.

Put some spaces between the wooden boards so that it can expand naturally. Check if the boards are placed down properly. You can also place railings around the platform for additional safety.

Other features that you can place are screens and wooden chairs. Use pre-made staircases in your deck if you do not want to create one from scratch.