With spring and summer right around the corner, you might want to up your outdoor space to enjoy the weather with your family. A deck can be a great addition to your home. You can add an outdoor table, some nice chairs, or a grill to take full advantage of your deck. And if you’re the type of guy that’s handy, you don’t even need to hire someone to build your deck for you!
Let’s go through the steps on how to install a deck and make it one of your favorite DIY projects to date!
How to Install a Deck
Before doing anything, it’s important to have a plan in mind for your deck project. Take some time to decide where you want your deck, how big it will be, and if you will need any permits or HOA permissions. Then, go get all your supplies and necessary tools, such as wood decking. Once you have all the details sorted, you are ready to learn how to install a deck!
Step One: Installing a Ledger Board
The first step for how to install a patio deck is to size and cut the ledger based on your measurements. Next, cut galvanized metal flushing to the same size as your ledger. Install your flushing first to your house’s siding and then use nails to attach your ledger.
Step Two: Add Footings
Next, determine where you want to place your footings based on your planned deck’s measurements. Dig your footing holes, add gravel, and place concrete tubes in the holes. Fill the tubes with concrete and install J-bolts to secure them.
Step Three: Add Posts
Now, add a metal post anchor and nut to each of the J-bolts. Cut your posts and nail them into the post anchors, then plumb the posts and add cut points.
Step Four: Installing Beams
The next part of how to install a deck is adding in the beams. Start by installing saddle hardware on the posts. Attach the beam to the saddle hardware with galvanized screws.
Step Five: Header, Outside, and Flooring Joists
Add outside joists at the end of the ledger with joist hangers. Then, attach the header joists to the outside joist. Now, mark along your ledger the places for your flooring joists based on your measurements. Do the same on your header joists. Then, attach nail joist hangers to each mark and nail in the joists.
Step Six: Add Decking
You’re now ready to add your decking. Begin at your house and attach the floorboards to the deck joists. You’ll want to finish with your last board flush to the header joist. You might also want to leave a little bit of spacing in between your boards, so make sure you keep that in mind as you place your floorboards.
Step Seven: Build a Staircase and Railings
You know how to install a deck, but depending on its height, you may need a staircase and railings. To build this, determine your measurements and cut your wood. Use notched staircase stringers and angled brackets to attach the stairs to your deck. Then use deck screws. To build a railing, start by making railing posts and attaching to the side of the deck. Then, attach the wood. Again, make sure you follow all rules and codes when creating a staircase and railings.
And there you have it! This guide gives you a basic introduction to what the steps are for how to install a deck. Once you have a new deck, grab some comfortable outdoor furniture and start making memories with your family and friends and celebrate all your hard work!
Build Your Dream Deck
Now that you have an amazing outdoor area, you might want to get some other outdoor upgrades to make the most of your new space. Grab some outdoor speakers to keep the party going all night long! Or what about a new grill so you can make your family a delicious meal to enjoy on a warm day on your deck? And if you want more projects to upgrade your backyard, don’t just stop with a deck! We have more ideas for backyard renovations!
