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.
What do I need to build a decking frame?
To build the sub-frame and cut deck boards Quick-drying concrete – if required. Brick trowel – if making concrete pads. Aerated blocks. Metal joist hanger. 50mm nails. Decking joists. Coach screws – 8 or 10mm x length required dependent on what you’re securing together.
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.
Can you use 3×2 for decking frame?
3×2 can be used but you’ll have to support it more frequently throughout its length, say every five feet or so.
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 do you frame a platform deck?
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 far apart should joists be on 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.
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.
Is 6×2 OK for decking?
A good, strong size joist can be used in many different raised structures such as decking frames and pergolas.
Can you use 2×3 for decking?
Stress graded to C16 this timber is well suited to all structural applications. This 3″ x 2″ is a perfect way to start your new Deck, strong and easy to work with you won’t need a professional!.
Can I use 2×6 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).
What is the maximum span for a 2×6 deck joist?
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.
Can I use 2×8 for floor joists?
Floor joists can span from 7′-1” to 16′-6” for the same lumber. Rafters also span from 6′-7” to 23′-9” with that lumber too. To strengthen a floor or deck area or extend the span, a common practice is to sister or double the joists. Doubled 2x8s will span about 25% further than single joists with the same spacing.
Does a freestanding deck 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.
Can you build a deck that is not attached to the house?
A freestanding deck, simply put, is a deck that isn’t attached to another structure. It can be built right next to a house, almost like it’s attached to it, but it will still be self-supporting.
How do you build a raised platform deck?
Basic steps for building a raised deck (the TL;DR version) Foundation. Pour concrete. Ledger. Place steel connectors – the strongest way to attach posts to concrete. Cut posts using your ledger as a height reference. Set the beam on top of your posts and check beam alignment.
How far apart should decking joists be UK?
Decking joists should be spaced at 400mm centres. Structural posts should be positioned no more than 1800mm apart. Use a joist and spirit level to mark the ledger height at the wall. Joists are attached to the ledger or double beam with galvanised joist hangers.
Can deck joists be 24 inches on center?
While most wood and synthetic decking installed perpendicular to the joists can span 24 inches, some kinds require joists to be as close as 12 inches on-center when the decking is installed at an angle.
How many joists do I need for a 12×12 deck?
For example, a 12-foot x 12-foot deck of 5/4 x 6 pressure treated wood decking on 16 inches on center spacing of joists will require: A 12-foot long deck with joists 16 inches on center will require 10 joists.
What span can a 2×4 support?
According to the American Wood Council, Douglas Fir 2x4s spaced 24 inches apart can handle a maximum span of 6 feet 6 inches. In comparison, Sitka Spruce is slightly stronger with a maximum span of 6 feet 8 inches.
