Table of Contents
How do you build a deck platform?
Build and square the rim. Assemble the rim joists, which form the perimeter of the deck, and add the beam. Dig the footing holes. Make the holes about 10 in. Line up the footings. Set the rim onto the footings. Double up the rim. Tack the joists into place. Picture-frame the deck. Finish with the fascia.
How much does it cost to build a platform deck?
Platform decks are often an inexpensive option with an average cost of $10 to $20 per square foot.
Can you 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.
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.
What is the cheapest way to build a deck?
Choose wood, but carefully: Untreated wood decks are generally the cheapest to install, but don’t forget long-term costs. Wood decks require yearly maintenance and deteriorate quickly if they don’t get it.
How much should a 20×20 deck cost?
New Deck Installation Cost The average homeowner spends $2,200 to build a 10×10 foot deck, $6,160 to build a 14×20 deck, and $8,800 to build a 20×20 deck. The cost to build a deck with pressure-treated wood, hardwood, or composite is about $25 per square foot, for both materials and installation.
Can you build a deck by 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.
Can I build a deck with 2×6?
2×6 joists should only be used on ground-level decks that do not require, and will not provide for, any guards. Most decking is not strong enough to support longer spans than 16″. Some builders reduce joist spacing to 12″ on center to strengthen the deck frame or to increase maximum allowable joist spans.
How high does a deck need to be off the ground?
There is no standard height for a “grade-level” deck—the maximum measurement from grade to the deck surface could be 6 inches, 12 inches, 24 inches, or more. But generally speaking, I apply the term to decks that are up to 30 inches above grade, since guardrails are required for any decks that are higher than that.
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.
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.
How do you support a deck without posts?
Instead of using footings, adding a level of gravel will give you the drainage aspect you are looking for. You can then add a frame of wood that anchors in concrete blocks that sit in the gravel, creating your new deck. Concrete blocks won’t rot, making them an ideal option for those who don’t want to use wood.
Do freestanding decks need footings?
A freestanding deck will need additional beams and footings to support the load which if attached to the house, would be supported by the ledger. A freestanding deck is better than an attached deck in that water remains away from the house.
How do you build a deck without digging holes?
If you’re ready to start planning, there are two great options to build a deck without digging any holes: surface deck blocks and deck foot anchors. The cheapest foundations are deck blocks, which can be purchased for less than $12.00 a piece. Deck blocks sit on the ground, so proper planning is essential.
What size joists do I need for decking?
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.
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.
What size timber do you use for decking frame?
The frame The key to constructing a good decking area is the frame. If the decking is being built on a low level it should be built of C16 graded treated joists 45 mm by 95mm (4×2 approx.). However if you are building a raised deck you should use 45mm x 145mm joists.