Table of Contents
What size wood should I use for decking frame?
Commonly used joist sizes are 2-by-6, 2-by-8 and 2-by-10. For example, when you space joists 16″ apart — which is standard for residential decks — a deck spanning 9 1/2′ would require 2-by-6 joists, a 13′ deck would need 2-by-8 joists and a 16′ deck calls for 2-by-10 joists.
Can I use 4×2 for decking frame?
4 x 2 Timber Rail / Joist These decking joists are the most common sized framing timber for decking. They provide a solid structure for fixing your decking boards too. When making your decking frame you should use a 400mm spacing between your timber joists.
Should deck joists be 2×6 or 2×8?
In general terms, joists spaced 16 inches on center can span 1.5 times in feet their depth in inches. A 2×8 up to 12 feet; 2×10 to 15 feet and 2×12 to 18 feet. The larger the deck, the larger the joists. 2×6 joists should only be used on ground-level decks that do not require, and will not provide for, any guards.
How far apart should joists be for decking?
For residential decking, the joist space should not exceed 16 inches as measured on the centre. But if you want a more rigid feel for your decking, you can space the joist by 12 inches on the centre. Additionally, for commercial deckings, the standard joist spacing is 12 inches on the centre.
Is 2×4 OK for decking?
Yes but you will need to support the 4×2 at their midspan with something to stop any flex, usually posts or beams are used but if you’re tight for space dig a channel out of the ground a bit, tamp some scalpings down and bed preformed 4×3 concrete lintels down level and in line and support the joists off these.
Can I use 2×4 for deck joists?
The short answer is yes. 2x4s can work for deck joists. However, they aren’t ideal for spanning long distances without bending or breaking, so you have some limitations. Choosing 2x4s for a low-sitting deck is perfect for keeping your feet out of the mud.
Can a deck be built with 2×4?
Can you use 2×4’s for a ground-level deck? A ground-level deck can be built from 2×4 if the span is less than 5’8″ (1.72m), using ground contact treated lumber. Under a 2×4 deck, the ground will need to be covered to prevent weed growth through the decking on such a low deck.
What do you put under decking?
A layer of crushed gravel, with or without plastic or weed barrier cloth, is the best choice for using under a deck. It sheds moisture instead of absorbing it, keeps the area under the deck drier, and won’t decay.
What can I use for a decking frame?
Redwood – Another excellent softwood to use as deck frame materials is redwood. Redwood lumber, like Cedar, is cheap and easy to find. However, it is slightly more expensive than Cedar. In terms of durability, it is also better than Cedar.
How do you build a simple deck step by step?
Step 1: Attach the Ledger. Photo by David Carmack. Step 2: Protect the Ledger. Step 3: Set Footings and Piers. Step 4: Install Post Bases and Side Rim Joists. Step 5: Install Front Rim Joist, Beams, and Interior Joists. Step 6: Install Front Rim Joist, Beams, and Interior Joists (continued) Step 7: Attach Trim and Decking.
Can 2×6 be used for deck joist?
You can use 2×6 as deck joists if the deck is low enough to the ground as not to require guard railing. When using S-P-F 2×6 deck joists, the span must not be greater than 9’0″ (2.73m) with joists at 16″ o.c. (400mm), and 9’10” (3.01m)with spacing at 12″ (300mm).
How far can a 2×6 decking span without support?
2-grade 2×6 joists can span up to 10 feet 9 inches from beam to beam when spaced the standard 16 inches apart with a maximum live load of 30 inches per square foot.
Do I need blocking between deck joists?
Blocking, according to the building code, is required at the open end between joists to prevent rotation or at 8-foot maximums if the joists are greater than 2×12 in dimensions. Most builders, though, recognize that blocking every 4 to 6 feet unifies the frame and improves structural strength.
Do you need joist hangers for decking?
Are Joist Hangers Necessary? No, joist hangers are not necessary.
How do you stagger deck boards?
A common method for staggering a deck is to start the first row with a full plank, then cut one-third of the next row’s first board off the end. The row after that has an additional one-third cut off and then repeat when you get back to a full board.
Can I build a deck directly on the ground?
Yes, you can build a deck directly on the ground, but with some conditions. A deck on the ground must be built with ground-contact wood, and the substructure needs to be adapted for minimal height. Even though technically a ground level deck is elevated up to 24”, here we will discuss decks built less than 8” high.
How much weight can 2×4 joists?
A 2×4 can support up to 1,000 pounds vertically. This dimensional lumber is the most common material used to frame interior and exterior walls on a home. When used as wall studs, 2x4s are typically grouped to create a wall, spaced 16 inches apart.
Can I build a deck yourself?
It may seem overwhelming at first, but if you have the time and a solid understanding of basic construction principles, you can build a pretty incredible deck all on your own. Just keep in mind that while a DIY deck project might be a great option for some, it’s not the solution for everyone.
What is a floating deck?
A floating deck, also called a free standing deck, is simply a deck that’s not attached to any structure, including (of course) your house. Instead, you can put your deck’s structural members — posts, girders, and joists — on precast pier blocks set directly in the ground.
